Veterinarian Overview
Daniels first veterinary medicine job showed him that veterinarians work on many species of animals. Working at a southeast Georgia animal clinic, Daniel often saw dogs, cats, horses, and cows on the patient appointment schedule. In addition, the veterinarians saw bears, deer, ostriches, and bobcats on occasion. While Daniel was originally hired as a kennel employee, he eventually picked up veterinary assistant, receptionist, and grooming skills as well. Looking back, Daniel realized that his diverse introduction to veterinary medicine helped to shape the career that he loves today! Growing up in Waycross, Georgia, Daniel inherited a strong work ethic from his two industrious parents. His two sisters are also very gifted. While attending high school and college, Daniel worked many hours at the aforementioned animal clinic. However, Daniel felt that he couldnt make the commitment to the long hours and hard work required for veterinary school. Very reluctantly, Daniel left the veterinary profession to work in several businesses owned by his father.However, Daniel couldnt shake the idea of a veterinary career, and he returned to his original employer, this time with a more well-rounded set of skills. Daniel became a Registered Veterinary Technician, which opened up many more patient care doors for him. On one chaotic afternoon, the exam rooms and lobby were filled, and Daniel had a patient on the surgery table. He suddenly realized that he loved this career, as it perfectly melded his passions of animals and science. Daniel also enjoyed working with people.Fortunately, Daniels employer, who also became his professional mentor, urged Daniel to enroll in veterinary school. After receiving his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Valdosta State University, Daniel earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia. During veterinary school, Daniel met Andrew Verdin and Reid Wilkins, two classmates who were also members of the Christian Veterinary Fellowship club. While the three had talked about practicing together after graduation, Daniel purchased a solo practice near his extended family. Daniels heavy workload compromised his family life, and he eventually sold that practice, joining Verdin Veterinary Services in September 2012.While Daniel enjoys the challenges of surgery, he has recently become a fan of internal medicine cases. Daniel loves to put on his detective hat, analyzing a patients puzzling symptoms, and digging deep until he finds their source.When Daniels not helping clients and pets, he enjoys life with his wife of 17 years and their four talented children. Three of the children have already expressed their desire to become veterinarians, and Daniels oldest son has been working in the practices office and kennel. Daniel and his family are also involved in their church and give credit to their Lord Jesus Christ for all of his blessings including the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful profession. Daniel also coaches his children in football, baseball, and soccer. Whenever possible, the family rejuvenates their spirits by spending a few days at the ocean. Finally, Daniels family has kept dogs, cats, horses, and an assortment of other pets over the years. Currently, the family cares for two hermit crabs and an Australian shepherd named Aspen, who doesnt believe hes a dog at all. Also, Daniel still has fond memories of his first dog, Bo, a big black Labrador retriever who became Daniels best friend. Daniel credits Bo with helping to spark his love for animals, which eventually led Daniel to his veterinary career.
