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Loss of Charter Diplomate, Murray Fowler

On May 18, 2014, Zoological Medicine suffered a profound loss as one of the ACZM's founding members, and charter Diplomate, Dr. Murray Fowler passed away.

Over a career that spanned six decades, he was one of the most active, prominent, and well-respected members in our field. Dr. Fowler spent much of his career at the University of California, Davis, serving as the university's first faculty in Zoological Medicine until his retirement in 1991.  He authored, co-authored, or edited over 20 books on zoological medicine, along with countless journal articles. He was editor of the Journal of Zoo Animal Medicine from 1978 to 1987.

Not only did Dr. Fowler help found the American College of Zoological Medicine, but was also certified by the American Board of Veterinary Toxicologists and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.  He has been the recipient of innumerable awards, including the Marlin Perkins Award from the AZA, the Animal Welfare Award from the AVMA, the Stange Memorial Alumni Award from Iowa State University, the Maagizo Davis Award for Outstanding Service to the Sacramento Zoo, and the Parke Davis Veterinary Award for Outstanding Contributions to Zoological Medicine.

Dr. Fowler was an inspiration and mentor to veterinary students, interns, residents, researchers, and clinicians all over the world.  It is hard to imagine there is a veterinary professional that has not benefited from his contributions -- whether reading one of his books, hearing one of his lectures, consulting on a case, being a member of an organization he helped found, or simply being welcomed as a professional colleague by his firm handshake and wide smile.  He will be truly missed.