| Dr. RMy father was a veterinarian in eastern Pennsylvania. He had a substantial influence on my career choice. Pursuing my dream, I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1957. For two years, I served in the US Air Force and found my way to Washington State, where I started working at the Lynnwood Veterinary Hospital in 1958 until retirement. My family includes Jo Ann, my wife, and three boys. I was President of the WSVMA in 1972. That was the year we approached the legislature to legalize the functions of the veterinary technicians. Once the Practice Act was open for discussion, a controversy arose with the Cattleman’s Association. The Practice aAct had allowed an owner to treat his/her own animals but the association introduced a language change which would allow “an owner or his designated agent to treat his animals” thereby allowing just about anyone to practice veterinary medicine. A vigorous campaign was mounted to retain the original wording resulting in the proposal being defeated. That was an exciting year with no time for boredom. |
