About
Dr. John Madigan, DVM, MS, DACVIM, DACAW

Dr. John Madigan is a globally renowned veterinarian whose groundbreaking contributions have transformed the fields of equine neonatal medicine, infectious diseases, animal welfare, and disaster response. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Dr. Madigan has become a pioneer in advancing both veterinary science and animal welfare practices.
Dr. Madigan is best known as the inventor of the Madigan Squeeze Procedure, a revolutionary technique for treating neonatal maladjustment syndrome (often referred to as "dummy foal syndrome") in foals. His innovative approach has significantly improved survival rates and quality of life for countless foals, earning widespread recognition and adoption in veterinary practices worldwide.
Dr. Madigan's ingenuity extends beyond neonatology into the development of specialized equipment for the rescue and care of large animals. He spearheaded the creation of the UC Davis Anderson Sling, a vital tool for supporting injured horses and other large animals during recovery and rehabilitation. Additionally, he designed the Large Animal Lift and the Loops Rescue System, essential resources for safely extracting and stabilizing animals in emergency and disaster scenarios. These innovations have saved countless lives and are widely utilized in veterinary practices and rescue operations worldwide.
A prolific author, Dr. Madigan penned the seminal text Manual of Equine Neonatal Medicine, a trusted resource for veterinarians, students, and equine caretakers alike. His expertise in equine neonatology has established him as a leading authority in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting newborn horses.
In addition to his work in neonatology and rescue equipment, Dr. Madigan has made significant strides in the study of infectious diseases and animal welfare. His research has shed light on critical issues affecting both domestic and wild animals, enhancing our understanding of how to safeguard animal health and well-being.
Dr. Madigan is also a trailblazer in disaster and emergency response for animals. His efforts have shaped protocols for animal rescue during natural disasters, ensuring that animals receive timely and effective care during crises. His leadership in this field underscores his lifelong commitment to the intersection of science and compassion.
Throughout his career, Dr. Madigan has received numerous accolades for his contributions to veterinary medicine and animal welfare. His work embodies a deep dedication to advancing knowledge, improving animal health, and promoting ethical practices in veterinary care.
Whether developing life-saving techniques, designing innovative rescue tools, leading disaster response efforts, or mentoring future generations of veterinarians, Dr. John Madigan’s legacy continues to leave an indelible mark on veterinary medicine and animal welfare worldwide.
Education
1968-1970
University of California, Davis, BS, Animal Science
1970-1972
University of California, Davis, MS, Animal Science
1971-1975
University of California, Davis, DVM
Veterinary License State of California - #5763
Certifications
1990
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
2012
Diplomate American College of Animal Welfare
Professional Experience and Appointments
Distinguished Professor - Emeritus
Department of Medicine and Epidemiology UC Davis
UC Davis Veterinary Emergency Response Team
Founder and Head 1992-2000
Loops Large Animal Rescue Slings (LoopsRescue.com)
CEO
John Madigan DVM Consulting
Veterinary Disaster Medicine, Equine Technical Rescue, Equine Emergency Helicopter Airlift, Equine Internal Medicine, Animal Welfare, Equine Neonatal Medicine
Honors & Awards
2022
Northern California Equine Practitioners John Madigan State of the Art Lecture Series
2021
Northern California Equine Practitioners – John Madigan Scholarship for UC Davis students with an interest in equine disaster response
2019
University of California-Davis - Public Scholarship Award
2018
US House of Representatives Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition
Cal-Aggie Alumni Association Distinguished Achievement Award
2017
United States Medical Reserve Corp – Outstanding Service Award
2014
Milne Lecturer –Lifetime Achievement Award - Amer Assoc Equine Practitioners
2008
Alumni Achievement Award- UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
2007
Legend of Academic Medicine- Large Animal Medicine- Kansas State University
2006
American Red Cross Hero Award
California State Assembly Certificate of Recognition
US House of Representatives Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition
American Association of Equine Practitioners Distinguished Service Award
American Veterinary Medical Association Welfare Award
2005
Oscar W. Schalm Lectureship
1996
Pfizer Award Research Excellence- University of California-Davis
1975
Women's Auxiliary to the American Veterinary Medical Assoc. - for outstanding achievements that brought recognition to the University of California
Publications: Publications
Total 380 consisting of 194 peer-reviewed, peer-reviewed review articles, and proceedings, 73 abstracts, 25 book chapters, and 5 textbooks. Partial publication list here: https://bit.ly/3tcLgmy
Invited Presentations
Over 400
Books
Manual of Equine Neonatal Medicine - Editor - Revised 4th Edition 2023
Large Animal Emergency Field Guide Sedation and Anesthesia Guidelines
Member American Association of Equine Practitioners- Equine Foundation - Disaster support
Member - American Veterinary Medical Association
Member - California Veterinary Medical Association
Member - American Association of Equine Practitioners
Member - American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Member - American College of Animal Welfare