David E. Harling, DVM, D.A.V.C.O. & D.A.B.V.P. - REIDSVILLE, NC

Dr. David E. Harling graduated Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine in 1955 and then began his career with a year of small animal practice in Buffalo, NY. He served two years as an Army veterinarian and then 7 years as a large animal practitioner also seeing dogs and cats in the evening. He moved to Greensboro, NC in 1965 and established Battleground Veterinary Hospital, focusing his practice on small animal medicine with a special interest in ophthalmology. Dr. Harling obtained board certification in canine and feline medicine from the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 1983, and re-certified in 1991, 2001 & 20011. The American Board of Ophthalmologists awarded him certification in 1996. From 1982 until 1986, Dr. Harling taught ophthalmology at N.C. State College of Veterinary Medicine and served as an adjunct professor in ophthalmology in 2009.

An extensive list of accomplishments, honors and awards demonstrate the veterinary community’s high regard for this practitioner’s consistent dedication. He served as President for the N.C. Veterinary Medical Association, N.C. Academy of Small Animal Medicine and the American Society of Veterinary Ophthalmology. The Martin Litwack Award was granted to him for service to the N.C. College of Veterinary Medicine. The N.C.V.M.A. named him both Veterinarian of the Year and – their highest honor – Distinguished Veterinarian. The American Animal Hospital Association recognizes him as an Outstanding Practitioner of the Southeast. During his over 50 years of service, Dr. Harling authored and co-authored numerous scientific articles, case reports and lectures to veterinarians, animal organizations and enthusiasts.

Dr. Harling no longer performs cataract surgeries, but manages the pre/post operative care for his patients. He accepts eye related case referrals from many local veterinarians. Show and agility dog breeders demand his skills for C.E.R.F. and O.F.A. certifications. The staff of Reidsville Veterinary Hospital benefits from their own “personal professor” for which they are extremely grateful. He has practiced at Reidsville Veterinary Hospital since 2001.

Dave’s hobbies include bird and wildlife observation, woodworking and photography. He has 3 children and 3 grandchildren and resides in the Summerfield area with his wife Helen. As a note of interest, Dr. Harling has been active in Rotary for 46 years and counting. He also has been vice president of the Rankin Fire Department for 16 years.