Veterinary college graduate named UF distinguished alumnus

Dale Kaplan-Stein, D.V.M., a 1981 graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, has received a UF Distinguished Alumnus Award, becoming the first veterinary college graduate to be so honored by her alma mater.

Kaplan-Stein, who also received her undergraduate degree in animal sciences from UF in 1976, owns Oaks Veterinary Hospital and Northwood Oaks Veterinary Hospital, both located in Gainesville. She also helped establish Affiliated Pet Emergency Services in Gainesville in 1988. For more than 20 years, Kaplan-Stein worked as a volunteer for Gainesville Pet Rescue, Alachua County Animal Services and No More Homeless Pets, among other groups. In 2007, she founded the St. Francis House Pet Care Clinic, through which she has helped provide veterinary care to more than 600 dogs and cats belonging to homeless and disadvantaged people from the Alachua County area.

Kaplan-Stein's daughter, Sara, is currently a senior veterinary student at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine.

UF veterinary students have also benefited from the St. Francis House clinic, as students on their shelter medicine rotation visit the clinic weekly to participate as part of their training. The experience provides an opportunity for community outreach as well as additional clinical training.

Kaplan-Stein's commitment to UF veterinary college life and programs through service and generous philanthropic gifts resulted in her receiving the college's 2009 Alumni Achievement Award. The college subsequently nominated her for the universitywide award.

UF President Bernie Machen said the award was being given in recognition of the honor and prestige Kaplan-Stein had brought her alma mater through her accomplishments and service. He called her "an excellent example of what our students should strive to become as they step off campus and into the world as graduates."

She will receive her award Dec. 18 during UF commencement ceremonies.