After a diligent, nationwide search, the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture (VIDA) has announced that Dr. David Wenger, DVM, has been selected as its new veterinarian, slated to join the VIDA team beginning Monday, Aug. 12. Select veterinary services that have been halted during this time are expected to resume upon his arrival.
Dr. Wegner comes to VIDA with 27 years of private veterinary experience, which includes being the current owner of Unity Veterinary Services in Unity, Oregon.
Wegner graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology at the University of Wyoming, and he received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree in 1996 at Washington State University. He also has a multi-generational family history of expatriate experiences, including missionary work and spending his time volunteering with high school seniors on their agriculture-related senior projects.
The Division of Veterinary Services (DVS) has placed a temporary halt on import/export applications and activities until Dr. Wegner assumes his position on Aug. 12. VIDA is proud to have Dr. Wegner on its team, and it looks forward to resuming the full complement of services that the Division of Veterinary Services provides.
Commissioner Louis E. Petersen, Ph.D. noted that he looks forward to once again having an experienced, professional and knowledgeable veterinarian with a wealth of experience and knowledge to serve the community. “Dr. Wegner cares about his work, he cares about animals and their wellbeing,” Petersen said, “and he cares about the growth of our department. We are honored to have him on our team and look forward to his contributions to the territory.”
Dr. Wegner’s objectives are to continue being an advocate for food animal production, which he believes is critical for the best utilization of world resources.
He also hopes to continue his long-time effort to stop the spread of disease and pestilence, both human and animal, via local practice, instruction and regulation.
For more information on VIDA’s Division of Veterinary Services, contact Ayanna Simon by calling 778-0997 or emailing ayanna.simon@doa.vi.gov.
