Claude A. Ragle, DVM, received the Distinguished Service Award during the American Association of Equine Practitioners’ (AAEP) 52nd Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas. The award, given to an individual who has provided exemplary service to the AAEP or a similar organization to the benefit of the horse, horse industry or the profession of equine veterinary medicine, was presented to Ragle yesterday (Dec. 5) during the President’s Luncheon.

As a result of his dedication to the veterinary profession, Ragle has been the recipient of the Butler Large Animal Award at Michigan State University; the Veterinary Medicine Graduating Class “Hooder” at Washington State University; and the General Wayne O. Kester/AAEP “Tip of the Hat” Award for the Equine Clinicians Network, of which he is the founder and moderator.

An active AAEP member, Ragle has served on the AAEP Education and Scholarship committees, as well as the chair of the Ad Hoc Committee of AAEP/ABVP Educational Goals and the Ad Hoc Committee of AAEP Table Topics. Ragle also has served as moderator for various scientific sessions during several AAEP conventions.

Ragle earned his veterinary degree with honors in 1983 from Michigan State University. He completed an equine surgery residency from 1983 to 1985 from the University of California, Davis, and in 1989 was board certified by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, Specialty Equine Practice. Currently, Ragle is an associate professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Washington State University