Chief of Surgery at Hudson Highlands Veterinary Medical Group, Dr. Paul S. McNamara attended Cornell University and received his B.S. Degree in Animal Science in 1990. Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. McNamara remained at Cornell where he completed his veterinary studies. In 1993, Dr. McNamara was awarded his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. McNamara was selected for a one-year internship in medicine and surgery at Cornell University. After completing his internship, he continued his postgraduate training with a four-year surgical residency. He completed his surgical residency in June 1997 and remained at Cornell as an instructor in surgery until 1998.
From July 1997 until June 2003, Dr. McNamara practiced surgery for the Capital District Veterinary Surgical Associates. During this time, he completed his requirements for membership in the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. In February 1999, Dr. McNamara passed his examinations and was inducted as a diplomate into the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.
A peace officer and special deputy for the Schenectady City Sheriffs Department, Dr. McNamara serves as a canine handler. With extensive experience in canine sports medicine and police dog training, Dr. McNamara volunteers his time and services by traveling around the country training police officers in basic first aid for their canine partners.
Dr. McNamara established ODINS, a non-profit organization providing first aid training and equipment for police dog organizations. As a result of his work, Dr. McNamara has received many local, state and regional awards from police canine organizations and teams.
Dr. McNamara maintains active membership in the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, Veterinary Orthopedic Society, American Veterinary Medical Association, American Canine Sports Medicine Association, North American Police Work Dog Association and the United States Police Canine Association.
A prolific author, Dr. McNamara has publications in scientific journals including Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Journal of Veterinary Research, Veterinary Clinics of North America, Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, Canine Practice and a major veterinary textbook, Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy. In addition to teaching veterinary students, interns, and residents while on the faculty at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. McNamara has lectured extensively to dog clubs, canine law enforcement handlers and at local, national, and international veterinary conferences and scientific meetings.
Along with his busy schedule, Dr. McNamara finds time for some leisure activities. He enjoys weightlifting, fishing and spending time with his two German shepherds, Sasha and Herod, and his two cats, Brenna and Dugan.
