Inspiring Iraq War Veteran with Profound Connection to Her Late Military Dog Headlines Veterinary Event
Later this week, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is holding its annual convention from July 18-22 in Washington, D.C., at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The event brings together the global veterinary community for an opportunity to network, workshop in high-quality education sessions, and be amongst their peers.
On Saturday, July 19, Megan Leavey will deliver the keynote address at AVMA Convention 2025 and the 40th World Veterinary Association Congress. Hill’s Pet Nutrition sponsors the program with support from the AVMA trust and is open to all convention attendees and guests.
Her journey from a college dropout to a Marine war veteran who fought to be reunited with her military working dog is an incredible story.
Leavey is a former U.S. Marine Corps corporal and Military Police K9 handler, best known for her bond with her military working dog, Rex, during the Iraq War. She enlisted in August 2003 and completed recruit training at Parris Island, followed by training as a K9 handler in San Antonio, Texas. Paired with German Shepherd Rex in 2004 at Camp Pendleton, they served in two tours in Fallujah and Ramadi. In September 2006, both were wounded by an IED, earning Leavey the Purple Heart and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a “V” device for heroism.
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After their injuries, Leavey fought to adopt Rex, succeeding in April 2012 with public and senatorial support, though Rex passed away that December. Her story inspired the 2017 film “Megan Leavey”, where Kate Mara portrayed her.
A special screening of the film will be shown two days before, on July 17.
Leavey now works as a Lead Veterinary Surgical Technician at Old Tappan Veterinary in New Jersey and is an ambassador for Royal Canin and Eukanuba. She continues to honor her and Rex’s legacy, including through a 2018 dog park dedication in Congers, New York.
Tickets are still available for this event, and the entire conference is accessible virtually. Go here for more information.
Unlock your event’s potential by bringing in Megan Leavey as your keynote speaker! Don’t miss the opportunity to inspire your audience—Contact Speaker Booking Agency today for more information, or fill out our Online Booking Request Form. Let us leverage our 25 years of industry-leading experience to secure the perfect talent for your next event!
