Dr. Larry K. Dresher - DVM 1967

Western Veterinary Conference 2010
Dr. Larry Dresher

Dr. Larry K. Dresher, Powell Butte, Ore., was the 2010 recipient of the Alumni Recognition Award for the Western Veterinary Conference held Feb. 15, 2010 in Las Vegas.

Dr. Dresher has worked throughout his career primarily as an equine veterinarian, while taking a considerable role in exotic and small animal medicine. He co-owned the Conejo Valley Veterinary Clinic in Thousand Oaks, Calif., for 33 years where he served as chief of staff. Dr. Dresher also gives lectures on topics of equine practice and group practice management at seminars, state conventions, 4-H, FFA and horse breed association meetings.

In addition to veterinary practice, Dr. Dresher has a passion for teaching. Before attending veterinary college, he was a secondary education teacher. Later in his career, Dr. Dresher taught evening classes at a local community college. At his clinic, he has also mentored students interested in veterinary medicine.

“The opportunity to combine my two chosen professions, teaching and veterinary practice, added a new dimension to my experience as a veterinarian,” Dr. Dresher said. “I already felt blessed to have such a rewarding career. To receive this award and recognition from my peers and alma mater is yet another blessing, so I can’t say thanks enough for the honor.”

Dean Richardson said, “Dr. Dresher has excelled in his career as a practitioner, community leader and role model, plus he is highly regarded by colleagues in his specialty fields. It is a pleasure for us to bestow this award to an outstanding individual who, through his professionalism and passion, represents the high standards we strive for at K-State in the College of Veterinary Medicine.”

Dr. Dresher, a native of Canton, Kan., earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from McPherson College in 1961 and DVM from K-State in 1967.

Although Dr. Dresher has phased out of full-time practice, he continues to do relief work, consulting, serving as a veterinary judge for endurance rides, education programs for local veterinary medical associations and volunteering with youth groups. He is participating as a veterinarian at the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska in March 2010.

Dr. Dresher is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Equine Practitioners, California Veterinary Medical Association, Mid-Oregon Veterinary Medical Association and International Sled Dog Veterinary Medical Association. He has served as secretary, treasurer, vice president and president of the Santa Barbara-Ventura VMA and served two terms on the AAEP insurance committee.

Dr. Dresher and his wife, Madeline, reside in Central Oregon. He has two children: Daniel and Teresa, and two grandchildren: Gabriel and Brooke.