David J. Smith, VMD

Owner and Chief Veterinarian

Dr. Smith has been practicing veterinary medicine for over 40 years and has owned Bay Road Animal Hospital since 1980. He has over three decades of veterinary experience, treating small animals such as dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets.

Dr. Smith was born and raised in Philadelphia. After graduating high school, he attended nearby Ursinus College in Collegeville, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1969. After completing his undergraduate work, he attended the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in the class of 1973. 

Dr. Smith started his veterinary career in Annandale, VA, where he practiced medicine at Springfield Animal Hospital. He decided to move to Sarasota one year after taking a vacation to the beautiful beaches and waterways. He immediately began working for Bay Road Animal Hospital, which Dr. William Greene owned at that time. In 1976, he became partners with Dr. Greene and then eventually bought the practice in 1980 when Dr. Greene retired. Dr. Smith opened Crossings Animal Hospital in 1990 to serve east Sarasota. He still owns both locations, where he resides as the chief veterinarian. Dr. Smith is particularly interested in internal medicine, dermatology, and avian and exotic pets.

Dr. Smith was president of the Southwest Florida VMA and was awarded a gold star award from the FVMA for his professional abilities and leadership. He is also known for his generosity. He performs free spay and neuter operations for organizations like the Humane Society of Sarasota County. He also provides vet services at a discounted price for many non-profits throughout the area. Dr. Smith is the most recognizable veterinarian in Sarasota. You might know him from BLAB TV, where he had a show, All About Pets, for over ten years. He has also appeared countless times on local news stations like SNN and Channel 7. 

Dr. Smith likes boating, golf, tennis, and trail riding. He is also a huge fan of the Florida Gators and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.