Richard R. Nye, DVM

Ness Exotic Wellness Center is privileged to have Dr. Richard Nye on staff since October 2007. He brings his expertise in avian and exotic pet surgery to our practice each Wednesday and Thursday. In addition, he accepts appointments for second opinions, referrals and routine examinations several hours weekly. He is available for consultation to the practice otherwise.

Education
Dr. Nye started his college education at the University of California at Berkeley. He graduated in 1966 with a BS degree in civil engineering. Soon after he was drafted by the Chicago Cubs to play professional baseball. His professional athletic career was cut short by injuries after 5 1/2 years. He then applied and was accepted to the University of Illinois School of Veterinary Medicine in 1972, to pursue his interest in animals.

Veterinary Career
Dr. Nye graduated from veterinary school in 1976 and joined Niles Animal Hospital where he worked with Dr. Ted LaFeber, who was an internationally renowned avian veterinary pioneer. During his association with Dr. LaFeber, Dr. Nye became interested in avian medicine. He became a charter member of the Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) in 1980. He served as Education Chairman, Conference Coordinator and finally President of AAV in 1989.

In 1985 at the suggestion of a good friend, Dr. Susan Brown (later to become his wife), he entered into a partnership to form the Midwest Bird & Exotic Animal Hospital. Along with their other partner Dr Scott McDonald, these three leading veterinarians in their field formed the first all-exotic veterinary practice in the United States. Under their leadership, the practice grew from a small 1.5 doctor practice with a small support staff into a 5 doctor practice with over 20 support staff. In October 2004, Dr. Nye and Dr. Brown sold their practice of nearly 20 years.

Lecturer & Author
Dr. Nye has presented numerous lectures to a variety of audiences from local exotic pet clubs to national veterinary organizations. He has authored several chapters in veterinary texts relating to avian medicine. He continues to be active in teaching veterinary students that serve externships at the clinic. Dr. Nye also volunteers with the Chicago Veterinary Medical Associationís Pet Loss Support Line.