Meet Dr. Rick Lusk
Dr. Lusk has been practicing veterinary medicine in Austin, TX for more than 25 years. Since his youth, he has maintained a genuine fascination for all animals and the care they receive. His earliest recorded veterinary acts included trying to revive mice caught in traps. A 3-year stint in Panama as a pre-teen furthered his passion to learn about all creatures. He earned a Masters degree in chemistry followed by a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University.
Upon graduation, Dr. Lusk moved to Austin where he has practiced medicine and surgery ever since. While most of his career has been spent with dogs and cats, a considerable portion of his practice time is spent with less common, yet more exotic pets. In 2001, his work with exotic animals was recognized by the Texas Veterinary Medical Association who awarded him the Non-Traditional Species Practitioner of the Year.
At that time, it was not uncommon for lions (African and mountain), tigers, and monkeys to populate the appointment book periodically. While these species are thankfully now banned in Travis County, he still cares for birds, reptiles, amphibians, and virtually all small mammals. In addition, he also had the opportunity to care for hundreds of wildlife rescue animals.
Veterinary associations
Capital Area Veterinary Medical Association (CAVMA)
Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA)
American Veterinary Medical Association: Member (AVMA)
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
Current Position
Associate Veterinarian June, 1992 to present
Westgate Pet and Bird Hospital, Austin, Texas
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Human Health and Nutrition Coach
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Supplemental Nutrient Analyst
Professional Affiliations
Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA):
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Member, 1992 to present
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Chairman of the Non-Traditional Species Committee, 1998 to 2002
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Vice Chair of Exotic Animal Committee, 1997
American Veterinary Medical Association:
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Member, 1991 to present
Texas Academy of Veterinary Practitioners
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Member, 1992 to 2005
Capital Area Veterinary Medical Association:
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Member, 1991 to 2005
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Treasurer, 1997
​Education
Bachelor of Science, Chemistry, Tulane University, 1982
Master of Science, Chemistry, Texas A&M University, 1986
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, 1991