The Legendary Dr. Fisher
Dr. Lester Fisher is widely recognized as a pioneer in humane and comprehensive health care for all animals, large and small. By carefully recording and compiling information from zoos around the country, Dr. Fisher helped establish standards for modern zoo veterinary medicine. He also helped to develop the “squeeze cage”, which restrains large animals for examination with minimal stress. Dr. Fisher served as director of Lincoln Park Zoo for 30 years, retiring in 1992.
In addition to his work as zoo director, Dr. Fisher has been a member of The Anti-Cruelty Society’s Board of Directors since 1956. In 1985, Dr. Fisher was elected to Honorary Board membership, a post which he takes very seriously, as demonstrated by his regular attendance at The Anti-Cruelty Society Board meetings. On the following pages, Society President Dr. Robyn Barbiers interviews the legendary Dr. Fisher about his career and his passion for animal welfare.
I first met Dr. Fisher in 1976 as an undergraduate student participating in a work-study program at Lincoln Park Zoo. At that time, I didn’t know what major to pursue, and Dr. Fisher gave me direction. I feel that I owe my career to that discussion in his office in the primate house so many years ago.
Dr. Fisher has certainly been extremely supportive of me throughout my years at Lincoln Park Zoo, and now as president of The Anti-Cruelty Society.
On his 90th birthday, it seems fitting that I was able to interview Dr. Fisher for this article honoring him.Hearing his stories and all that he has done during his career is amazing. He has shaped so many lives and organizations. I hope I can live up to the role model that he has been.
Why did you become a veterinarian?
It was an evolving process, I was not originally motivated to go to vet school. My best friend was going to Iowa State, and I thought I might be interested in the pre-vet program there. So I went to Ames, signed up for the program, and became interested. I then applied to vet school and was luckily accepted.
I was considered an anachronism— only one of two out-of-state acceptees and the only student from an urban environment. I had to take poultry, dairy, and animal sciences, and I didn’t know anything about these subjects, as I didn’t come from a farm background. At that time, ROTC had horse-drawn artillery pieces, and I had trouble putting a saddle on one horse, let alone doing a six-horse hitch—my cohorts had a good laugh that day!
When I was a freshman in undergraduate school, the rooming house where I stayed also housed the ambulatory clinician (veterinarian that makes farm calls), Dr. Walter Anderson. He would often knock on my door and offer to let me ride with him on his calls. I think he put in a good word for me to get accepted into vet school.
What made you become involved with The Anti-Cruelty Society?
Wes Young, the executive director of The Anti-Cruelty Society, introduced me to the Society. During my first summer of veterinary college, I spent a month at the Society helping Dr. Erich Maschgan, their veterinarian.
I believed in the mission, the interest in animal welfare, and was supportive of the various issues that have come up over the years. I respected Erich and the work at the Society. I viewed the Society doing for animals what the county hospital did for people.
Why did you stay with The Anti-Cruelty Society?
I have always believed in their mission. I think one of the strengths of The Anti-Cruelty Society is that they remain committed to the mission rather than just to PR issues. They take a conservative approach to humane work and animal welfare. The Board has always been a wonderful group of passionate individuals, and the Society has benefited from their dedication.
The Society’s commitment to education is exemplary. Education has been part of the Society’s mission for many, many years. They hired a full-time educator, Virginia Sedgwick, in 1937. I also applaud them for making the commitment to stay in the neighborhood—in the late 1960s there was discussion about moving. The Anti-Cruelty Society has been part of my life.
What do you think about the future of The Anti-Cruelty Society?
I think animal welfare is still a growth industry as people become more aware of humane treatment. Unfortunately, the extreme animal rights supporters have confused the issue in the last ten years or so. But hopefully more people will become educated about the difference between animal welfare and animal rights. Betty White is a good example of an animal welfare spokesperson with a rational approach.
What was your first pet?
Growing up we always had dogs—fox terriers. When I was an adult and had a family, my daughters wanted a cat, so I brought home some kittens from my veterinary practice. I had to euthanize my 15-year-old cat, Tupilak (adopted from The Anti-Cruelty Society) about a year ago, and, since my home is ironically a no-pets building, have not brought another cat into my life.
In closing, I would like to share an excerpt from his book, Dr. Fisher’s Life on the Ark:
“An elderly man came into the clinic with his very old, very sick dog. After examining the dog, it became clear that it was at death’s door. I explained this to the man, and we agreed it was time to put the dog to sleep. He held his dog while I administered the lethal injection. I turned to put the syringe back on the table and remove my surgical gloves. When I turned back, the man had his sleeve rolled up. He held out his arm to me. “Doc,” he said, choking back tears, “please do me next. That was the only friend I had.” We held each other for several minutes and we both cried.
I am constantly reminded of the bonds people form with their animals. To call them pets seems like such an inadequate way to describe the importance animals take on in many people’s lives.”
I think that passage embodies what Dr. Fisher is all about—compassion and respect. I am honored to have had his support throughout my career.
