The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) presented its 2021 Distinguished Service Award to James “Jim” Morehead, DVM, founding partner of Equine Medical Associates, PSC, in Lexington, Ky., for his substantial volunteer leadership within the association and broader horse industry during the course of his 37-year career.

The Distinguished Service Award honors exemplary service to the AAEP or a similar organization to the benefit of the horse, horse industry or profession of equine veterinary medicine. Dr. Morehead received the award during the December 7 President’s Luncheon at the AAEP’s 67th Annual Convention in Nashville, Tenn.

Dr. Morehead’s active participation within the AAEP is epitomized by a “can-do” attitude and willingness to tackle the most onerous challenges with dignity, patience and perseverance. Since joining the AAEP in 1984, Dr. Morehead has served two terms on the board of directors, including as treasurer from 2012–2014. He served as chair of the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee, Finance Committee and Drug Compounding Task Force; and member of the Biological and Therapeutic Agents, Foundation Advisory, Infractions, Purchase Exam and Reproduction committees. In addition, Dr. Morehead has authored several articles addressing veterinary ethics and drug compounding for Equine Veterinary Education, American Edition, and he has been a longtime supporter of The Foundation for the Horse.

Beyond the AAEP, Dr. Morehead has lent his time and expertise in service to other important horse entities, including as president of the Kentucky Association of Equine Practitioners in 2004, member of the Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council, and co-chair of the Equine Species Working Group within the American Horse Council on the issue of the National Animal Identification System.

“Along with his attitude of service to the AAEP and veterinary profession, Jim is characterized by the great commitment and tenacity that comes along with his involvement,” said nominator Dr. Kenton Morgan. “He is never the silent observer or bystander. If he commits to a post, Jim is ‘all in’ and he will not stop until the objectives have been achieved.”

After receiving his veterinary degree from the University of Missouri in 1983, Dr. Morehead joined Equine Medical Associates, Inc. in Edmond, Okla. In 1986, he relocated to Lexington to work with Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital before establishing his own practice in 1991. Since then, Dr. Morehead has supported various research endeavors at academic institutions by helping recruit participants and sharing clinical information from his practice (maintaining confidentiality of horse and owner identities) in the interest of advancing the body of equine medical knowledge.

About AAEP

The American Association of Equine Practitioners, headquartered in Lexington, Ky., was founded in 1954 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of the horse. Currently, AAEP reaches more than 5 million horse owners through its over 9,000 members worldwide and is actively involved in ethics issues, practice management, research and continuing education in the equine veterinary profession and horse industry.