Bovine Veterinarian Dr. Murray Gillies Honored with 2024 Animal Health Canada Emerging Leadership Award

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Dr. Murray Gillies, a dedicated bovine veterinarian from New Brunswick, has been awarded the 2024 Animal Health Canada (AHC) Emerging Leadership Award, celebrating his notable contributions to animal health in Canada. Recognized for his impactful leadership within the first decade of his career, Dr. Gillies has advanced One Health and One Welfare initiatives through his collaborative work with both public and private stakeholders.

In his role as the Canadian Animal Health Surveillance System (CAHSS) coordinator, Dr. Gillies has provided essential communication updates on animal health, including the avian influenza outbreaks affecting U.S. dairy cattle. As a member of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) and the Canadian Association of Bovine Veterinarians (CABV), he established committees addressing genetics, genomics, and mental well-being within veterinary medicine. Additionally, Dr. Gillies has contributed to responsible veterinary medicine practices through the Stewardship of Antimicrobials by Veterinarians Initiative (SAVI) with the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.

In addition to his leadership roles, Dr. Gillies runs a bovine consultancy focused on advanced cattle management, mentors new veterinarians, and participates actively in his family’s dairy farm, while also pursuing a master’s degree in animal health management.

The AHC Emerging Leadership Award highlights professionals like Dr. Gillies who excel in fostering collaboration, conducting research, and shaping policies that advance animal health and welfare in Canada. He received this honor at the 2024 Animal Health Canada Forum, which brings together stakeholders across Canada’s animal health network.