Veterinarian Overview
Dr. Nelson graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 2002 with Highest Honors. His professional interests include preventative medicine, both soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, and nutrition. He has significant surgical experience, from laser surgery to advanced orthopedic procedures. His first priority is always the pets quality of life, and he strives to improve that quality by providing the highest quality veterinary medicine and surgery. He bought Kuhns Animal Clinic in July 2008 for two reasons. First, he loves Geneseo and the surrounding community. He is a very big fan of the Andy Griffith Show, and he always says that Geneseo is a modern day Mayberry. It is an ideal place to raise a family and call home. The people are so friendly and really love their pets. Second, Dr. Kuhns had a wonderful practice and reputation, and Dr. Nelson wants Maple Ridge Veterinary Clinic to continue that tradition. Dr. Nelson is married to his high school sweetheart, Faith. Both of them grew up in Dallas City, IL (near Nauvoo, IL), graduated from Dallas City High School and Monmouth College. Together, they have three children: Hayley, Drew, and Sydney. They also have several four legged children, two golden retrievers named Wrigley, and Ivy, a Brussels Griffon named Pippa, a rabbit named Henry, along with cats Einstein, Woody, and Jessie. The Nelsons had to put their beloved golden retriever Duncan down in April of 2012 due to arthritis and bone cancer issues, and they miss him dearly. On November 11, 2011, Dr. Nelson received the Dr. Erwin Small First Decade Award at the 129th Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association annual meeting in Peoria. The award is given annually to one veterinarian who has graduated from veterinary college within the last 10 years. It recognizes someone who represents high standards of professionalism and demonstrates leadership in programs approved by the ISVMA. He was also elected and installed as a member of the Board of Directors of the ISVMA at the same meeting. Dr. Nelson is featured on the first Monday of the month on Paula Sands Live for their Ask the Vet segment. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association, the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine Mentor Program, and the Geneseo Kiwanis Club. He also serves on the board of directors of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association (he was elected as Treasurer of the ISVMA for the 2013 term), the Mississippi Valley Veterinary Medical Association, the Animal Emergency Center of the Quad Cities, and the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce where he is serving as Past President in 2013.
