The Westminster Kennel Club (WKC) has named Dr. Sara Lyle of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as its 2025 Veterinarian of the Year. The fourth recipient of this prestigious award, Dr. Lyle will be recognized at the 2025 Westminster Dog Show in February, celebrating her exceptional career in veterinary medicine, academia, and animal welfare.
Dr. Sara Lyle: A Career Dedicated to Innovation and Education
Dr. Sara K. Lyle, DVM, MS, PhD, DACT, began her journey as a private-practice veterinarian before transitioning to academia in 2002. For over two decades, she has served as an associate professor at Louisiana State University (LSU), where she focuses on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to advance animal reproductive health. As a renowned theriogenologist—a specialist in animal reproduction—her work emphasizes improving reproductive outcomes through teamwork between veterinarians, clients, and patients.
Beyond her academic role, Dr. Lyle is a passionate advocate for animals in crisis. She currently serves as president of the Theriogenology Foundation and has contributed to disaster relief efforts with the Louisiana State Animal Response Team, aiding in the rescue and care of animals affected by hurricanes in southern Louisiana.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition,” Dr. Lyle said. “Education and service lie at the core of my work, from safeguarding canine health to raising research funds through the Theriogenology Foundation. I thank the Westminster Kennel Club for creating an award that shines a light on mental health initiatives like Not One More Vet and supports the well-being of our veterinary community.”
The Veterinarian of the Year Award: Celebrating Excellence and Mental Health Advocacy
Launched in 2022, the WKC’s Veterinarian of the Year Award aims to celebrate veterinary excellence while addressing the mental health challenges faced by the profession, in partnership with the nonprofit Not One More Vet. Dr. Lyle was selected from over 300 nominees by a panel including Marty Greer of Veterinary Village, Joseph Rossi of North Penn Animal Hospital, and Treyton Diggs, the 2024 award recipient and WKC’s resident veterinarian.
Regional finalists for 2025 included Douglas Tack (New Jersey), Daryl Waits (Ohio), Kyle Schumacher (New Mexico), and Dr. Lyle. In addition to the honor, WKC will donate $10,000 to Not One More Vet in Dr. Lyle’s name to support mental health resources for veterinarians.
2025 Westminster Dog Show: A Celebration of Canine Excellence
Tickets are now available at westminsterkennelclub.org, and live coverage will be broadcast on local TV networks. Dr. Lyle’s recognition as Veterinarian of the Year will be a highlight of the event, underscoring the vital role veterinarians play in ensuring the health and welfare of dogs worldwide.
For updates and exclusive coverage, visit the Westminster Kennel Club’s official website and follow along as we celebrate the best in canine companionship and veterinary innovation.
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