6/25/98

Charles Martin, 844-3698 (martico@vetmed.auburn.edu)

AUBURN GRADUATE NAMED 'MIGHTIEST VETERINARIAN IN AMERICA'

AUBURN -- An Auburn veterinary graduate has been named the "Mightiest Veterinarian in America" after a client penned an essay about his extraordinary care and compassion for pets.

Dr. Charles Beauchamp of Franklin, Tenn., received the title after being nominated by Dolores Jackson, who submitted a 200-word composition for a contest sponsored by Friskies PetCare. The company used the contest as part of its celebration of the 25th anniversary of its Mighty Dog canned dog food.

A 1972 alumnus, Beauchamp has treated Jackson's pets through the years, including her four Bedlington Terriers, two Afghan Hounds and a Siamese cat. In her essay Jackson wrote, "Each time an animal is placed on his examining table, Charlie hugs, pets and speaks kindly to the animal before any physical examination begins."

"I wouldn't have the faith that I have in anyone else but him," she said after learning that her veterinarian had been honored. "He treats animals with dignity, respect and kindness."

Beauchamp said he learned about the thoughtful letter only after Jackson had submitted it for the contest.

"I was very honored and it was a very nice letter, yet I never thought I would be chosen," he said. "The award brings much satisfaction, but the most satisfaction comes from serving the clients and their pets. The response from my clients and colleagues means the most."

As part of the award, Beauchamp was sent to the 1998 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum in San Diego in May. Friskies also donated 100 cases of Mighty Dog canned dog food to the Williamson County, Tenn., Animal Control in honor of Beauchamp.

"He always gives extra care and attention to the animals in his care," Animal Control director Judy Ladebauche told Franklin's newspaper, The Review Appeal.

"He works a 24-hour day into a 100-hour day because people's animals are like children. He is functioning as a pediatrician where the patient never grows up; they're always dependent. It's an effort of love, and he couldn't do it if he didn't care about his clients."

A story about Beauchamp and the Friskies' award also appeared in the June issue of Dog World Magazine .

The contest rules required pet owners to submit a 200-word essay describing how their veterinarian had gone above and beyond the normal call of duty. The entries were judged on creativity and originality and how the veterinarian showed extraordinary care.

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Beauchamp, a native of Chiefland, Fla., still has strong ties with AU, where his youngest daughter, Tiffany, is a student.

june98:AU-mightyvet