Dr. Jerry Bohlender

Dr. Jerry Bohlender graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in veterinary medicine in 1965. Bohlender worked for the Leadbetter clinic for four years before starting the North Denver Animal Clinic, which he operated for 23 years. Dr. Bohlender became the assistant state veterinarian in 1988 and was the state veterinarian from 1994 to May 2000. He was active in research related to Vesicular Stomatitis and was instrumental in containing the disease in the state. Bohlender was recognized nationally for his work in the livestock industry. As state veterinarian, Dr. Bohlender worked closely with the livestock industry and veterinary medical organizations, as well as federal, state and local agencies, to protect the health, welfare and marketability of Colorado livestock. Tough decisions were Jerry's hallmark. He worked long hours and tough days to make sure that his statutory duties were fully met and that those without a voice-the animals in his care-were afforded their due. The livestock industry mourned the loss of Dr. Bohlender April 30, 2000, when he died in a tragic car accident in Clear Creek County.