Sarasota Veterinary Center presents Dr. Dave Smith, veterinarian, father and friend!
It’s not often that young children know exactly who and what they want to be when they grow up, but that wasn’t the case for Dr Dave Smith! At a very young age, Dr Dave developed a passion for animals, beyond just wanting to have pets. In the 6th grade, he knew he wanted to be Dr Dave Vet! At an Eagle Scout dinner, he had the opportunity to meet a local veterinarian and soon thereafter began working in his office, in his hometown of Thomasville, Georgia.
During a time when teens were still on a path of self discovery, Dr Dave Smith never lost his drive or focus. For Dr Dave veterinarian was the only path to follow! He went on to become a 1988 graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where began is career in South Florida. He was the managing partner of a group of veterinary emergency centers located in the Fort Lauderdale area. Dr Smith also owned and operated several daytime veterinary clinics.
He stayed busy and consistently connected to others in his industry, by doing consulting work for several local veterinarians. He coached them how to manage and grow their practices through an emphasis on preventative medicine, exceptional care, and outstanding customer service. Being Dr Dave Smith Vet was a full-time commitment outside of the office. Dr. Smith was dedicated to the veterinary community in Fort Lauderdale, serving as the president of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association. He steadfastly actualized his goal of bringing local veterinarians together by hosting social events and promoting continuing education.
After 19 years of devoted practicing in southeast Florida, Dr. Dave wanted a change of pace. In July 2006, he and his wife eventually moved to Sarasota to raise a family, which of course included their two Labrador Retrievers and Ernie the kitty. Dr. Dave became the owner of Sarasota Veterinary Center and his family has now grown to include 3 dogs, 2 cats, and his daughter, Anise.
The Dr Smith veterinarian philosophy has always been about placing an emphasis on providing extraordinary customer service and educating others on the benefits of preventative medicine for pets of all ages, including geriatric medicine. His vast experience in veterinary emergency medicine has led to his emphasis on how preventative care is the key to your pet’s well being and longevity. Dr. Dave is a firm believer in the importance of client education. He likes to surround himself with staff members whose love of animals match his enduring compassion. This is obvious to all who enter his hospital and it fits with his long standing belief that “Pets Are Family Too!”