Rich was born in Spokane, Washington and has lived in Illinois and Wisconsin (where he attended school) before finally settling in Minnesota. He is proud of his 31 years of residency in our great state.
Wildlife Management Experience
Rich completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin, Steven’s Point, where he learned a lot about handling wildlife and laboratory animals. He graduated with a bachelors degree in wildlife management and forestry with a minor in environmental education. He was accepted to the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated with his doctorate in veterinary medicine.
Drawn To Explore the Natural World
Rich doesn’t just like what he does, he loves it. He feels as though veterinary medicine completes himself as a person. As he says, ” My most important education began early and has not stopped. I have a curiosity about the world, about nature and science. A hundred lifetimes would not satisfy my curiosity in watching nature. It is the root of my education.
Works with Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
“I love my profession. There are so many hats to wear. I miss all the farm species that I worked on in my first six years as a vet. There is something romantic and freeing about farm calls in the truck. The dogs and cats and their families are challenging and fun. We are all fortunate to work with some of the great rescue groups in and around the Northfield area along with the raptor center and the wildlife rehab center. It’s an amazing opportunity for me to practice my skills as a veterinarian on all kinds of animals, to make a difference, to help the community, and to learn and grow.”
Home Life
Rich is enormously fulfilled in his marriage and friendship to his wife Virginia who he met when he was only 18 years old. Together they have three great, adult children, Zach, Sam and Mary.