Montco Vet Wins First-Ever Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show's 'Veterinarian Of The Year'

LANSDALE, PA — A local veterinarian was recently recognized nationwide for his accomplishments in the animal care business.

Dr. Joe Rossi, the proprietor of North Penn Animal Hospital, has been named the 'Veterinarian of the Year' by the Westminster Kennel Club during its annual dog show.

Rossi, who started the Montgomery County veterinarian practice back in 1996, was chosen from a pool of top vets across the country.

This was the first year ever for the award.

"I still can't believe it," Rossi told 6 ABC in a segment. "That that many people took the time to nominate me and to vote for me."

The veterinary practice stated on its website that employees were "beyond excited and happy for him."

"This man is the best!" reads the statement from the staffers on the website. "He truly cares about our patients and our clients! He is a brilliant doctor and the kindest and most compassionate person you will ever meet. We couldn't ask for a better boss. Thank you to everyone who voted."

Rossi told Today in an interview late last month that his desire to become a veterinarian could be traced back to childhood when he tried to get help for a chicken who had been attacked by a racoon, but he was unable to find a vet to treat the chicken, so, with the help of his mother, he sewed up the chicken's wounds himself, and saved its life.

As a result of the award, a $10,000 donation to MightyVet, which is an online educational resource for veterinarians, will be made in Rossi's name, according to 6 ABC.

A report in the Harrisburg Patriot-News stated that the money is designed to benefit the psychological welfare of those working in the veterinary field, especially during a time of difficulty for many individuals following the COVID-19 pandemic and other societal issues.