Navigation Animal Law Section presents its inaugural Veterinarians Award posthumously to Dr. Purvis
The Animal Law Section is dedicating its inaugural Veterinarians Award posthumously to Dr. Michael Purvis. The Monticello veterinarian and beloved FAMU professor was the first in Florida to diagnose the West Nile virus in horses, triggering a statewide response that saved countless animals, said Animal Law Section Executive Council Member Ralph DeMeo. An accomplished musician, Dr. Purvis led a band that performed regularly for animal charities, and he donated countless hours to the Tallahassee Animal Services Center and other clinics, DeMeo said. “He truly embodied the values of the classic ‘All Creatures Great and Small,’” DeMeo said. “He will be missed.” Family members, City of Tallahassee — Animal Service Center staff, and Animal Law Section members gathered recently to remember Dr. Purvis and his contributions to the community The Animal Law Section recognizes lawyers, law students, and even animals for their contributions to animal welfare in Florida.
