PRESS KIT & BIO
Meet Dr. Ernie Ward – Veterinarian, Educator, Advocate
Dr. Ernie Ward, widely known as “America’s Pet Advocate,” is a veterinarian, internationally recognized speaker, impact entrepreneur, and author. A frequent media contributor and columnist, he is known for combining clinical excellence with public education and innovation.
A 1992 graduate of the University of Georgia, he was voted Speaker of the Year at both VMX and WVC conferences, the 2018 Veterinary Journalist of the Year, received the US National Practice of Excellence Award, and has received many veterinary and civic recognitions.
Dr. Ward is involved on the Boards of many animal organizations, including the Morris Animal Foundation's Scientific Advisory Board and Animal Welfare Advisory Board, Grey Muzzle Society, and the Southern European Veterinary Conference's Scientific Committee and Practice Management Chairperson, to name a few.
Dr. Ward is the founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) and the World Pet Obesity Association and is known for improving veterinary medical standards through his clinical education programs and promoting a higher quality of life and healthier habits for pets and people.
When he’s not with family or pet patients, he can be found contemplating solutions for both the veterinary profession and the planet during endurance athletics, meditation, and on his award-winning weekly podcast, the Veterinary Viewfinder, or his regular column, “Opening Shots,” in NAVC’s “Today’s Veterinary Business.”
