Dr. Oates grew up in Russellville where he graduated high school and then attended Arkansas Tech University, after which he was accepted into the 7th graduating class at LSU-School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 1983. He was recently awarded an honorary bachelor’s degree by Arkansas Tech University.
He has served as director of Pope County Conservation District; he is a member of the National Wildlife Turkey Federation and the Yell County Wildlife Federation. Dr. Oates is a member of the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association. In 2003, Dr. Michael Thames appointed Dr. Oates to research and locate a school suitable to start Arkansas’ first program in Veterinary Technology. He has served as Chairman of ASU-Beebe Veterinary Technology Program advisory committee since its inception in 2007.
Dr. Oates established Russellville Animal Clinic in 1986 where he continues to practice today. He lives on the family farm, established in 1850 near Pottsville, with his wife Tonya and their six fur babies.
The Arkansas Veterinary Medical Association is honored to have Dr. David Oates representing the veterinary profession! He is an honorable, outstanding, dedicated man. I am honored to call him my friend. We congratulate Dr. Oates on an award well deserved! You are an inspiration of all veterinarians and the veterinary profession. Congratulations!