70 years since first Vet appointment Morrinsville

Date: 17th July 2009

70 years since the first Veterinarian appointment in Morrinsville District

This month, the Animal Health Centre celebrates its 70th anniversary. This also marks the first appointed veterinarian for Morrinsville District farmers. The Morrinsville District Veterinary Association, now known as Animal Health Centre, was formed in March 1939 “to retain for members a qualified veterinary surgeon for the Morrinsville and surrounding districts, with headquarters in Morrinsville.” Dr AA Blakely was appointed on July 17th, 1939. The Animal Health Centre proudly remains an association practice, formed first and foremost to serve the needs of local farmers.

The practice, operating out of the Wright-Stephenson store on the corner of Thames and Lorne St, developed rapidly and began servicing areas outside the Morrinsville district. By 1945 there were eight veterinarians. The service was 5/- per visit, in addition to an annual fee, for the 958 members. A significant milestone at this time was the introduction of penicillin for veterinary use. In 1968 the practice had 14 vets. The National Cattle TB Testing Programme was a major veterinary activity until it was taken over by MAF in the mid to late 70’s.

In 1986 the Morrinsville District Veterinary Club name was changed to Animal Health Centre, and moved to its present location in Moorhouse Street. Innovation has driven the association from conception. In 1997 a Research and Development division, now called Cognoso, was started, headed by Dr Scott McDougall, providing world class dairy research, bringing emerging dairy technology and pharmacology right to members doorstep.

In 2006 Animal Health Centre, with clinics in Morrinsville, Te Aroha, Matamata, Rototuna and Dinsdale, acquired additional practices and formed Anexa, with clinics in Gordonton, Raglan, Ngaruawahia, Te Kauwhata and Huntly.

CEO Ron Gibson, who joined the practice in 1968, continues to see an exciting future for the industry. “Another 70 years? Absolutely” said Gibson.

ENDS

About Animal Health Centre

Founded in 1939, the Animal Health Centre is an association practice, formed first and foremost to serve the needs of our local farmers. The group comprises of two companies, Animal Health Centre and Anexa. Animal Health Centre clinics are in Morrinsville, Matamata, Te Aroha, Dinsdale and Rototuna. Anexa clinics are in Gordonton, Huntly, Te Kauwhata, Ngaruawahia and Raglan.

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