Well-known Nova Scotia veterinarian Dr. Hubert Bennett (OVC, Class of 1957) was awarded the Atlantic Veterinary College’s 2010 Atlantic Award of Excellence in Veterinary Medicine and Animal Care during the Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association’s annual general meeting on November 6.

Throughout his long career in veterinary medicine, Dr. Bennett was a tireless advocate for his patients and their owners, and a great mentor for young veterinarians. After growing up on a family farm in New Brunswick, Dr. Bennett turned his childhood experiences into a career of compassionate and highly competent care for animals of all sizes and breeds.

"The Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association is very proud to see Dr. Bennett recognized for his contributions to veterinary medicine in Nova Scotia,” says Nova Scotia VMA President Dr. Trevor Lawson. “Through his involvement and dedication to his patients, clients and the profession, Dr. Bennett has served as a role model for all veterinarians in Nova Scotia, one which we should all aspire to emulate."

In addition to his practice in small and large animal medicine, Dr. Bennett was one of the first veterinarians to be involved in the Nova Scotia Bird Society’s raptor rehabilitation program, which began in 1982. He was also one of the first veterinarians to show a keen interest in working with dog breeders in Nova Scotia, and dedicated considerable time to pony clubs, breeder clubs and school groups. A firm believer in continuing education, he was committed to staying current with advancements in veterinary medicine and practices. He retired in 2007.

“The Atlantic Veterinary College’s Atlantic Award of Excellence recognizes excellence, commitment and outstanding contributions to veterinary medicine and animal care. Dr. Bennett is very deserving of this award, and we are honored that it will bear his name,” says Dr. Don Reynolds, Dean of AVC.

Previous winners of the AVC Atlantic Award of Excellence in Veterinary Medicine and Animal Care include Dr. Ross Ainslie (Nova Scotia), Dr. Bob Curtis (Prince Edward Island), Dr. George Irving (New Brunswick) and Dr. Albert “Bud” Ings (Prince Edward Island).