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A Hayneville veterinarian was recently honored by the state veterinary medical association.

Dr. Harold “Hal” Pate, doctor of veterinary medicine, was awarded the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association’s Special Award.

Dr. Pate practices in Lowndes County and earned his degree from Auburn in 1979.

. After graduation, he practiced two years in Birmingham and two years in Pell City before returning home to Lowndes County. In 1988, he opened Pate Animal Clinic in Hayneville where he began his solo practice. In addition to his practice, Dr. Pate served 23 years as a Public Health Officer with the Alabama Air National Guard and retired as a lieutenant colonel.

For the past 30 years, Dr. Pate has been staff veterinarian for the Montgomery Zoo.

He also finds time to raise registered Charolais cattle.

He has two sons: Trent and Brandon. Brandon will be graduating from Mississippi State Veterinary School May 2019. In his spare time, Dr. Pate enjoys golf and attending Auburn football and basketball games. Dr. Pate serves on the Board of the Lowndes County Cattlemen’s Association and the Board of Lowndes County Farmer’s Federation. He is a deacon in the Lowdesboro Baptist Church. Dr. Pate is past president of the ALVMA 2016-2017. Dr. Pate has served as member of the ALVMA Foundation Board, the ALVMA PAC Committee, the ALVMA Legislative Committee, the ALVMA Awards Committee, and the ALVMA Nominating Committee. He currently serves as the ALVMA Legislative Chair and the Alternate Delegate to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Since 1907, the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association has been committed to advancing the science and art of veterinary medicine.  More than 1,030 members work to ensure that laws and regulations promote the health and well-being of all animals and protect public health and human welfare.  Large and small animal practitioners, students, and veterinary school graduates make up ALVMA membership.  For additional information, please visit www.alvma.com.

“It’s an extreme honor,” Pate said.  I am very grateful for the ALVMA for the recognition.”