NOTE: Dr. Kesler is only able to answer questions regarding animal health topics. Due to professional practice ethics and state and federal regulations he is unable to write or authorize prescriptions through this web site. If you need help acquiring a prescription you must contact your local veterinarian.
For product specific questions, please contact Customer Service or call us at 877-483-8633.
Rick Kesler D.V.M. is a 1985 graduate of Iowa State University school of Veterinary Medicine. He currently holds licenses to practice veterinary medicine in 11 states. Dr. Kesler stays current on advances in veterinary medicine and as the staff veterinarian for Vet Med Direct, he shares his knowledge across the company by conducting in-house training for the sales staff, reviewing, recommending and approving products the company sells, and answering questions from customers.
While attending veterinary school Dr. Kesler was employed by a local hospital as a medical technologist and a phlebotomist. His duties included drawing samples from patients, testing blood chemistries, hematology, urinalysis and obtaining microbiology samples. He also worked in the hospital blood bank and assisted in the emergency room.
After graduation Dr. Kesler's experience included all animal species. He soon realized that companion animal medicine was his true calling and concentrated on the practice of small animal and equine medicine and surgery. He has spent much of his career as a practice owner and has employed veterinary associates and veterinary technicians throughout his veterinary office ownership. His professional experience also includes a wide variety of surgical cases, including orthopedic, gastrointestinal and soft tissue surgery. He has practiced alongside Board-certified veterinary surgeons, ophthalmologists, dermatologists and internists. Additionally he has worked in two metropolitan-based emergency clinics which allowed him the experience of a wide range of veterinary cases.
Dr. Kesler's 24 years of involvement with breeder's medicine, surgery and kennel management has made him a valued resource for breeders, kennel owners, pet stores and pet owners. He visits many kennels through out the year, consulting with breeders individually on all aspects of companion animal health and wellness.
Dr. Kesler's reputation as an informed and practical advisor is well founded. He consults daily, both by phone and email, with breeders, pet owners, veterinary university specialists, veterinary drug companies and other industry professionals. He knows first hand the daily challenges and concerns of a breeder and has solutions based on experience and current information. He's an engaging and knowledgeable speaker, frequently representing Vet Med Direct at breeder's association meetings and writing informational articles for the companion animal industry magazines.
Lauren Johnson, LVT, has been a licensed veterinary technician (LVT) since 2004. She earned her Veterinary Technology degree from Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture. She has worked with both companion and large animals, in both private and corporate veterinary clinic environments.
Her training included concentrations in radiology, anesthesiology and surgical assistance.
An animal lover since childhood, Lauren works closely with Dr. Kesler, assisting with medical and surgical procedures and with the continual training of sales staff.
Lauren also shares her knowledge and passion for animal health care by contributing articles to several publications and she appears at conferences and other veterinary industry events.