Vogel climbs to AVMA's top welfare post

SCHAUMBURG, ILL. - 4/27/06 - Lyle Vogel, DVM, MPH, has been named inaugural director of the American Veterinary Medical Association's (AVMA) newly formed Animal Welfare Division.

Vogel previously led the AVMA Scientific Activities Division for nearly a decade. He assumes his new role May 1, association officials say.

Vogel seeks to help AVMA reach its welfare goals.

"My mission will be to develop a synergistic and dynamic team that includes both the Animal Welfare Division staff and the numerous stakeholders including those represented on the AVMA Animal Welfare Committee," he says in a prepared statement. "We hope to advance and protect the welfare of animals while recognizing the various societal uses of animals."

Vogel joined AVMA in 1993 following a 26-year stint with the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps as a food safety health specialist. He also has served on the AVMA Animal Welfare Governance Task Force.