Two UF veterinarians honored by alma mater
Dennis Brooks, D.V.M., Ph.D.
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine faculty members Michael Schaer, D.V.M., a professor of small animal medicine, and Dennis Brooks, D.V.M., Ph.D., a professor of ophthalmology, both recently received the Dr. Erwin Small Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and its alumni association.
The award, presented during the University of Illinois’ annual fall conference for veterinarians, acknowledges distinguished Illinois graduates, including D.V.M., Ph.D., and M.S. degree recipients, who have excelled in their respective fields and who have made significant contributions to the profession and/or college. The award was created to honor the late Dr. Erwin Small, a professor emeritus and former associate dean of alumni and public affairs at the college.
Michael Schaer, D.V.M., a professor of small animal medicine at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
Schaer, who received his D.V.M. degree from the University of Illinois in 1970, is board-certified in both internal medicine and emergency medicine and critical care. He joined UF’s faculty in 1978 and has held many administrative positions, including serving continuously as associate chief of staff for the UF Small Animal Hospital from 1987 to 2009. He also led the small animal medicine service as chief for many years.
Although still a practicing clinician, Schaer now serves as special assistant to the dean, helping to advise veterinary students and working with the college’s development office.
Brooks received his D.V.M., from the University of Illinois in 1980 and his Ph.D. from UF in 1987. He is board certified in veterinary ophthalmology and has been a member of UF's veterinary faculty since 1990. He currently serves as chief of the ophthalmology service.
A recognized authority on glaucoma and infectious keratitis in animals, Brooks’ other research interests include hyperproteinase activity in equine corneal ulceration, equine keratomycosis, equine corneal transplantation and the role of amniotic membrane grafting in horses with catastrophic corneal disease.
About the author
