Academic, author, advocate, mentor, Theriogenology Foundation president, dog enthusiast, and veterinarian—to say Dr. Sara Lyle is busy would be an understatement.

When she squeezed in this interview, I asked her, “What does your typical day look like?” I couldn’t help but laugh at her response: “There is no such thing as a typical day!” On paper, Sara K. Lyle, DVM, MS, PhD, DACT, is an Associate Professor at Louisiana State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, but she is constantly kept on her toes thanks to the dynamic nature of the veterinary profession. While she may have transitioned from practicing medicine to academia, theriogenology, her specialty, requires immediate yet expert-level care, and she ensures that she makes the most of every teachable moment while maintaining the highest possible standard of care for her patients.

Born and raised in Gainesville, Florida, Dr. Lyle completed her undergraduate degree at Duke before heading back home to complete her Master’s, Doctorate, and residency at the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She then earned her Diplomate certification from the American College of Theriogenology and completed an additional Doctorate in Philosophy at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. Her journey has not exactly been straightforward, with her career bringing her from UF, to equine practices in Pennsylvania and Maryland, back to UF for residency, to ten years in private practice, then back to academia at LSU, transitioning to faculty at LSU, teaching at North Carolina State University, and finally, returning to LSU as an Associate Professor. Through these experiences, Dr. Lyle cultivated her commitment to veterinary education, enriched her knowledge base, and met many invaluable mentors and friends.

Now a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, she shares her home with her Rhodesian Ridgeback, Nomi. Bred by Millabella Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Pinehurst, North Carolina, Nomi can be “a lot sometimes, but has never met a stranger and is a consummate snuggler!” Together, Dr. Lyle and her companion have watched the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on TV for many years—it is a tradition.

As Dr. Lyle detailed her journey and steadfast commitment to education, I couldn’t help but wonder how she decided to become a veterinarian. In her eyes, though, it was a simple decision. She has always loved animals and apparently even told her mother when she was very young that she wanted to be a veterinarian. Dr. Lyle doesn’t remember this conversation, but alas, it seems she has always known her path. And with her love for science and medicine, even then, she was destined to become a powerhouse.  

Dr. Lyle attributes her success to her fabulous mentors, caring and generous colleagues, and a curiosity for discovery—all of which have served her well throughout her transition from practicing medicine to academia. I was curious about the depth of differences between these two fields and how the transition has been for Dr. Lyle. Of the two, she said, “Academia moves much more slowly than private practice, since professors must provide time and a safe place for trainees to learn. It requires patience, both from the teacher and the client!” Finding this balance has not only helped her flourish in her own career but also made an immense impact on her students.

While her “day” job certainly keeps her busy, Dr. Lyle’s commitment to animal welfare spans far beyond her teaching position. As a true embodiment of The Westminster Kennel Club’s mission, Dr. Lyle is a force in her industry, working to advance reproductive medicine through community outreach and education as well. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters on canine and equine reproduction, and she has more papers, both canine and equine-focused, in the works. Her passion for research stems from her desire to answer the often elusive clinical questions. By investigating these questions, conducting clinical research, and disseminating findings, she inspires and broadens veterinary knowledge of those who may be outside of the scope of her local teaching.

When asked what her most significant accomplishment in the field has been thus far, she gave me two answers. First, regarding her research, “finding that the equine fetus can respond to inflammatory stimulus by the release of cortisol. Previously, we did not think the fetal adrenals could make or release cortisol until shortly before foaling.” Second, regarding her teaching, “seeing former students and residents progress on to productive careers in academia or private practice. And, witnessing the ‘aha moment’ is priceless.” Notably, these achievements do not surround her many awards or accolades.

In addition to her research, Dr. Lyle gives back to her community abundantly. After hurricanes struck southern Louisiana, she served as a member of the Louisiana State Animal Response Team, helping to rescue animals in her community and beyond. She is also the current president of the Theriogenology Foundation, whose mission is to identify research and teaching needs and provide the funding to meet these needs.

While I was moved by Dr. Lyle’s fierce commitment to theriogenology practice, education, and research, I was most touched when I asked her, “What drives you now?” After a career that has spanned decades, the nation, and a shift from private practice to academia, Dr. Lyle is driven by the same things that drove her at the beginning. After years of dedication, she seeks to continue to find answers to clinical problems, help train the next generation of students and residents, and give back through the Theriogenology Foundation. She remains positive and passionate, feelings which resonate with her students and patients alike.

Dr. Lyle’s notable career is not only measured by her education and research advances, but also by the lasting connections and mentorships she forms with her students and peers. After speaking with her, the scope of her impact is no surprise to me, which was echoed by the many nominations that submitted her name for this award. Ultimately, she was holistically selected as the recipient by an expert veterinary judging panel, including the 2024 Veterinarian of the Year and Westminster Kennel Club Resident Veterinarian Dr. Treyton Diggs.

In addition to the title, The Westminster Kennel Club donated $10,000 in Dr. Lyle’s name to Not One More Vet, an organization close to our hearts and Sara’s as well. Of this win, Dr. Lyle said she was both surprised and humbled to have been awarded out of a pool of some of the nation’s most accomplished veterinarians. She also shed some light on the importance of Not One More Vet and addressing veterinary mental health: “The general public is, I think, surprised to hear mental health is a problem, since pet parents and guardians often think we (veterinarians and veterinary technicians) have the best job on the planet, which we do! But with that job, there is a great responsibility that sometimes bears a high personal cost for many individuals. Empathetic distress fatigue (aka “compassion fatigue”) continues to grow and is a mental health problem that needs to be addressed, and I hope one day solved.” Organizations such as Not One More Vet advocate for sustainability in the veterinary industry with a focus on mental health education, resources, and support.

Looking toward the future, Dr. Lyle plans to continue to teach, provide clinical service, and answer clinical questions that can help her patients, their owners, and future veterinarians. She also plans to continue to advocate for mental health in the veterinary field. The Westminster Kennel Club is thrilled to award Dr. Lyle for her excellence, dedication, and values in animal care and advocacy, and we look forward to her continued advances and impact on animals nationwide.