Apex man named new state veterinarian

Dr. R. Douglas Meckes of Apex has been named the new state veterinarian, replacing Dr. David Marshall who retired in August. Dr. Meckes comes to the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Dr. Meckes received his undergraduate degree and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University. He spent 30 years in private practice in Apex on both large and small animals before making a move to Washington, D.C., to serve as a congressional fellow for Sen. Chuck Hagel. After his fellowship ended, he worked as the assistant director of government relations for the American Veterinary Medical Association before joining the Department of Homeland Security. At DHS, he worked in the Office of Health Affairs as chief of the Food, Agriculture and Veterinary Defense Branch.

“I am thrilled to bring Dr. Meckes to Raleigh to serve as state veterinarian,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “His expertise with both large and small animals through his veterinary practice and his time spent with the AVMA and Department of Homeland Security give him the experience needed to jump into this position with both feet and understand the many issues and opportunities facing North Carolina’s multibillion-dollar livestock industry.”

Meckes will oversee the 130-employee Veterinary Division, which includes four sections: Animal Health Programs, Poultry Health Programs, Animal Welfare and the Diagnostic Laboratory System. He started Nov. 3.

In addition to his veterinary practice, Meckes served 10 years as an elected official on the Apex Board of Commissioners, as well as a variety of local boards and committees. He recently received the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Wilford S. Bailey Distinguished Alumni Award for his professional and civic contributions.