Dr. David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman
named Avian Practitioner of the Year
Exceptional avian veterinarians from all around the world were nominated for the T.J. Lafeber Avian Practitioner of the Year Award. The independent Selection Committee narrowed the list to three finalists and the 2026 Avian Practitioner of the Year, Dr. David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman, was announced during the Plenary Session of the 47th Annual Conference of the Association of Avian Veterinarians.
Dr. Sanchez-Migallon Guzman with a parrotlet patient
David Sanchez-Migallon Guzman, LV, MS, DECZM (Avian, Small Mammal), DACZM is a Professor of clinical zoological companion animal medicine and surgery at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis). He currently serves as service chief of Companion Exotic Animal Medicine and Surgery and Messmer Family Presidential Chair. He is also a director of the Richard M. Schubot Parrot Wellness and Welfare Program at UC Davis.
Past award recipients
Visit Lafeber.com to see a list of previous Award recipients.
About T.J. Lafeber
Dr. T.J. Lafeber was recognized as a pioneer in companion bird medicine and the human-companion bird bond. His concern for the health and welfare of his avian patients led him to develop medical treatments, diagnostic techniques, and nutritionally balanced foods. Dr. Lafeber’s lectures were infused with his caring demeanor and enthusiasm, inspiring students and veterinarians alike to advance the fledgling field of companion bird medicine. The Caring Hands Award statue (shown below) is a bronze cast of Dr. Lafeber’s hands and his most beloved avian patient, the budgerigar.
The Caring Hands Award statue statuette is a bronze cast of Dr. Lafeber’s hands and his most beloved avian patient, the budgerigar.
Did you know…?
The T.J. Lafeber Avian Practitioner of the Year is nominated and selected by their peers. The Awardee is not, and has never been, selected by Lafeber Company. The 2026 independent Award Selection Committee, consisting of Association of Avian Veterinarians members, was led by Dr. Yvonne R.A. van Zeeland.