#United States #New York #Westminster Kennel Club #World Veterinary Day #Veterinarian of the Year

Westminster Kennel Club to Open Nominations for 2026 Veterinarian of the Year Award

In a significant move to recognize the vital contributions of veterinarians, the Westminster Kennel Club (WKC) has announced that it will open nominations for the prestigious 2026 Veterinarian of the Year Award (VOTY) on April 25, coinciding with the observance of World Veterinary Day. This marks the fifth consecutive year of the award, which is presented in partnership with Purina Pro Plan Veterinary.

The initiative is a celebration of the unwavering dedication shown by veterinarians who improve the lives of pets and face numerous challenges within the veterinary field. This year, in an exciting twist, fans will have the opportunity to cast votes for their favorite local veterinarian, allowing communities across the country to actively participate in the selection process.

Nominations will be accepted from April 25 to May 21, 2026. Following this, a panel of esteemed judges from the WKC, including previous VOTY winners, will select four regional finalists based on public nominations. These finalists will then be made available for fan voting from June 7 to June 10, 2026 on the WKC's official website, westminsterkennelclub.org.

The winner of the 2026 Veterinarian of the Year will be duly recognized throughout the year and will also receive a notable donation of $10,000 made in their name to a partner of the Pro Plan Veterinary Support Mission. This initiative not only highlights the importance of veterinary contributions but also aims to raise awareness about the profession’s challenges and achievements.

Dr. Donald Sturz, President of the Westminster Kennel Club, expressed pride in the award's ongoing impact, sharing, "For over 150 years, The Westminster Kennel Club has centered itself around a tradition of caring in order to create a better world for dogs. We cannot do that without the commitment of the veterinary community. We are thrilled to celebrate the fifth anniversary of this award, thanks to our partnership with Pro Plan Veterinary."

The VOTY award is part of the larger philanthropic initiative known as Westminster Cares, which supports a variety of programs related to breed education, canine health, rescue efforts, companionship, and participation in dog sports. These activities align with Westminster's mission to foster responsible dog ownership while celebrating the invaluable relationship between humans and dogs.

Last year, the VOTY contest received a remarkable 300 nominations from across the United States, concluding with Dr. Sara K. Lyle of Baton Rouge, Louisiana being named the 2025 recipient. Dr. Lyle was selected for her excellence and commitment to animal care, leadership, and advocacy.

The Westminster Kennel Club, established in 1877, holds the title of America’s oldest dog organization. Famous for hosting the all-breed Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which has gained a reputation as one of the most celebrated sporting events in the country, the club continues to promote responsible dog ownership and the preservation of various breeds.

To discover more about the Westminster Kennel Club and its initiatives, follow them on their social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and LinkedIn, or visit their official website at westminsterkennelclub.org.

With this year’s nomination call, WKC anticipates an enthusiastic response as communities come together to honor their local veterinary heroes, reinforcing the critical role these professionals play in the well-being of our companion animals.