The Northeast Association of Equine Practitioners announced that Ontario farrier Dave Dawson is its interim executive director.

Dawson will oversee the day-to-day operations of the NEAEP and coordinate the 2017 symposium.

“I am excited to start a new challenge within the Northeast Association of Equine Practitioners and look forward to working with the team to further develop the association and promote continuing education and collaboration between veterinarians and farriers in North America,” he says. “I hope to be able to contribute to the NEAEP in this position as the equine industry has contributed to my life.”

In addition to farriery, Dawson has a business administration background. Over the past 22 years, he has provided farrier services to horses in dressage, eventing, gaited, hunter and jumper disciplines in southern Ontario and Florida. Dawson has extensive experience with equine industry boards and associations. He was a founding member of the American Association of Professional Farriers and was instrumental in laying the foundation of its Continuing Education program. He’s also been a member of the NEAEP Board of Directors as its treasurer.

“Hiring a steady hand like Dave after the tragic loss of Bryan [Rhicco] Rentas was an obvious choice for the board to guide our organization through a challenging transition,” says Robert Causey, NEAEP president. “Dave’s long history with NEAEP, plus his skill in leadership and management, allows us to focus on continuing to offer the best advanced equine CE programs.”