Ethan inducted into Animal Hall of Fame, Dr. Bewley named Veterinarian of the Year
Ethan – the dog who survived extreme starvation – and his team of caretakers were honored at the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association (KVMA) annual awards luncheon on Saturday, September 25.
The 2021 KVMA Animal Hall of Fame was awarded to “Ethan Almighty.” Many know of Ethan’s remarkable journey from when he was dumped at the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) in January 29, 2021, almost dead from extreme starvation. Ethan received the best possible veterinary care and is now a walking miracle. There is a pre-filed bill for the 2022 General Assembly known as “Ethan’s Bill.” If passed, it will create much stronger animal cruelty laws in Kentucky. Ethan’s award plaque read: “In recognition of an animal that exemplifies the affection, loyalty and value of the human/animal bond, and dedication while serving an individual and community.”
The veterinary teams that saved Ethan’s life were also honored. Dr. Emily Bewley, shelter veterinarian for KHS, received the Veterinarian of the Year Award. Also honored were KHS Medical Services Supervisor Jaci Claxton, Veterinary Technician Angela Mikesell and Veterinary Assistants Rebecca van Schepen and Dakota Arnold, who all cared for Ethan during his recovery.
Jefferson Animal Hospital and Regional Care Center received Veterinary Hospital of the Year. The veterinary team at Jefferson Animal Hospital also received special recognition. They triaged Ethan and cared for him for four days until he was strong enough to return to KHS for his recuperation before he was adopted by KHS Facility Director Jeff Calloway and his wife, Dana.
About KVMA
The Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association (KVMA) established in 1911, is a proactive group of more than 1,000 professionals representing many facets of veterinary medicine – clinical practice, public health, regulatory, academe, and the military. Members are dedicated to working together improve the veterinary profession in Kentucky. Through their combined efforts, KVMA can build stronger relationships with the public and policy makers by expanding their understanding of and appreciation for the profession. To learn more about the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association, please visit the website at www.kvma.org.
The KHS Veterinary team with Ethan and Jeff 
Dr. Bewley, Ethan and Ethan’s poppa Jeff Callaway 
The awards given to the KHS team 
Dr. Bewley accepting her award 
KHS Veterinary Technician Angela Mikesell who was with Dr. Bewley every step of the way with Ethan 
KHS Medical Services Supervisor Jaci Claxton, who took Ethan home the first night 
KHs veterinary assistant Dakota Arnold, who named Ethan 
KHS vterinary assistant and medical photographer Rebecca Van Schepen, whose photos documented Ethan’s miraculous journey
Dr. Debra Shoulders, KVMA President, presents the Animal Hall of Fame award to Ethan and Jeff
Dr. Emily Bewley and Dr. Shoulders 
KHS veterinary team with Dr. Shoulders 
Debra Hamelback, KVMA Executive Director, with Ethan 
The KHS veterinary team, the Jefferson Animal Hospital team, and Jeff and Ethan