The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Ramard Wright: A Veterinarian’s Tale
By Kathy Gaillard
Dr. Ramard Wright, a dedicated veterinarian and owner of Wright’s Brown Deer Animal Hospital, embodies the spirit of compassion and commitment to animal care. His journey into veterinary medicine is not just a career choice; it is a reflection of his childhood experiences and the values instilled in him by his family.
A Childhood Shaped by Nature
Growing up in the WAICO housing area of Milwaukee, Dr. Wright was raised by a single parent alongside his two siblings. His formative years were marked by trips to his grandfather’s cottage in Dodge County, where he developed a profound love for nature and animals. These experiences ignited his passion for veterinary medicine, leading him to pursue a career that would allow him to care for animals and contribute positively to their lives.
Educational Pathway
After graduating from Riverside High School, Dr. Wright embarked on his educational journey at Tuskegee University. However, he later returned to Milwaukee to complete his undergraduate degree in biology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. His passion for veterinary medicine culminated in his acceptance into the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, where he graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2008.
A Life Filled with Animals
For the past two decades, Dr. Wright has dedicated himself to the field of veterinary medicine. His passion for animals extends beyond his professional life; at home, he shares his life with a diverse array of pets, including five dogs, two cats, a boa constrictor, and a large parrot. This vibrant household reflects his commitment to animal welfare and his belief in the importance of companionship between humans and animals.
Dr. Wright’s family life is equally bustling. He and his wife, Candice, are parents to ten children, including triplet daughters. With such a large family, he hopes that at least one of his children will follow in his footsteps and take over the family practice one day.
The Daily Challenges of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Wright’s work as a veterinarian is anything but routine. Each day presents unique challenges, from performing surgeries and taking x-rays to guiding pet owners through the grieving process when faced with difficult decisions. He describes his profession as a “jack of all trades,” highlighting the diverse skill set required to care for various species and address a wide range of health issues.
“Every day is different,” he explains. “There’s never a mundane day. While human doctors often specialize in specific fields, veterinarians must be prepared to handle everything from routine check-ups to emergency surgeries.”
Addressing the Need for Diversity in Veterinary Medicine
Despite the rewarding nature of his work, Dr. Wright acknowledges the challenges faced by the veterinary profession, particularly the lack of diversity. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only about 2% of veterinarians in the United States are Black Americans. Dr. Wright is passionate about changing this statistic and actively engages with students at schools and festivals to encourage them to consider veterinary medicine as a viable career option.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified the demand for veterinary services, as many people adopted pets during lockdowns. Dr. Wright notes that the profession is experiencing a shortage of veterinarians, making it crucial to inspire the next generation to enter this fulfilling field.
The Emotional Toll of Veterinary Care
Veterinarians often find themselves in emotionally charged situations, dealing with pet owners who face difficult decisions regarding their beloved animals. Dr. Wright emphasizes the importance of being a supportive figure for pet owners during these times. “I become part of the family,” he says. “They trust me and follow my advice. When I have to perform euthanasia, I strive to be the rock they can lean on.”
His role extends beyond medical care; he often addresses issues such as obesity, exercise, and behavioral problems in pets, acting as a counselor to pet owners. Dr. Wright’s holistic approach to veterinary care underscores the deep bond between humans and their pets.
Honoring Family Legacy
Dr. Wright attributes much of his success to the values instilled in him by his grandfather, who will soon celebrate his 95th birthday. As a tribute to his grandfather’s influence, Dr. Wright plans to take him on a trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to celebrate this milestone. He reflects on the lessons learned from his grandfather: “He taught me responsibility, courage, and dedication. His advice to ‘do your best at whatever you’re good at, and you’ll never fail’ resonates with me every day.”
Conclusion
Dr. Ramard Wright’s journey from a young boy exploring nature to a dedicated veterinarian is a testament to the power of passion, education, and family values. His commitment to animal care, coupled with his desire to inspire future generations, makes him a remarkable figure in the veterinary community. As he continues to navigate the challenges of his profession, Dr. Wright remains a beacon of hope and encouragement for aspiring veterinarians, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. His story is a reminder that with dedication and hard work, one can turn their childhood dreams into a fulfilling reality.
