Episode 14: A veterinary orthopedic surgeon’s unconventional journey

Although his professional path wasn’t linear, David Dycus, DVM, MS, CCRP, DACVS, has paved a legacy for himself as a veterinary orthopedic surgeon. The certified canine rehabilitation practitioner and dvm360 editorial advisory board member tells Dr. Adam Christman that, unlike many people in the profession, he didn’t know he wanted to go to veterinary school until college.

Dycus says he always had an interest in orthopedics, mainly because of his personal experience with injuries and surgeries. During his first week of veterinary school, he made the bold move to tell his anatomy professor that he wanted to become a surgeon. “Well, let’s get through the first month of veterinary school first, then we’ll talk about it,” his professor replied.

He did more than just get through his first year. What began as an 8-week research project as part of his residency program turned into a 4-year large research project funded by Nutramax Laboratories. As his career progressed, he’s been able to teach others the complex theories and applications that he’s learned over the years.

Dycus also explains to Christman the importance of shifting the veterinary industry pendulum from retrospective management of osteoarthritis or starting treatment post diagnosis to early recognition and intervention—identifying patients before they present with clinical and radiographic signs.

“With so many dogs affected by osteoarthritis,” he says, “we can certainly make a huge impact on improving their quality of life.”

Listen below to learn more about Dycus’s professional journey, plus learn some exciting details about his soon-to-launch state-of-the-art multi-specialist facility.