Renowned equine reproduction specialist Dr. Walter W. Zent, D.V.M. passed away June 29 in Lexington, Kentucky. He was 84 years old.
A New York native, Zent began his love affair with horses as a young child when visiting family in Kentucky. He graduated from Cornell University's School of Veterinary Medicine in 1963, interned at Purdue University, then spent two years investigating infectious disease outbreaks and pathology at the University of Kentucky's Department of Veterinary Science. He began practicing at Hagyard-Davidson-McGee, now Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, in 1966 and was synonymous with that institution for decades.
Zent also remained affiliated with the Veterinary Science Department at the University of Kentucky, as well as the Gluck Equine Research Center. He served as Chair for the Gluck Equine Research Foundation and was instrumental in securing funding for facilities on the University's research farm. The mare reproduction facility is named the “Walter W. Zent-Mare Reproductive Health Facility.”
Zent's career focused on advancing the field of equine reproduction, particularly among Thoroughbreds, and nurturing theriogenology (the reproduction specialty in veterinary medicine) among other veterinarians. He played a pivotal role in revolutionizing mare management practices. A past president of the Society for Theriogenology, he was also involved in many other professional veterinary and equine organizations, including the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). He was an honorary Diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists and delivered numerous presentations at national and international conferences, as well as authored several book chapters and articles for publication.
In partnership with Tony and Susan Holmes, Zent and his wife June bred a number of successful Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds, including 2005 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile winner Stevie Wonderboy (Stephen Got Even) and 2010 GI Breeders' Cup Turf winner Dangerous Midge (Lion Heart).
Zent is survived by his wife, June; daughter Megan Neelis (Trey); son, Drew Zent (Lisa); grandchildren Christine Neelis, Carter Zent, Harry Neelis, Emma Zent, and Maggie Zent; his sister, Phyllis Shapiro; and two nieces.
Visitation will take place Thursday, July 6 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, 463 East Main Street, Lexington. A celebration of Zent's life and contributions will be held later this year.
Any donations in Zent's name may be made to the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Scholarship Endowment through The Foundation for the Horse and/or the Society for Theriogenology.
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