A tribute to a founder: the late Dr David Mullins BSc BVSc (1953-2011): Dr David Mullins qualified with a BSc, majoring in zoology and entomology, from Rhodes University, Grahamstown. This was followed up by achieving his dream of becoming a veterinarian when he qualified from the world-renowed Onderstepoort faculty in 1978. “I always wanted to work with animals. My BSc gave me an insight and understanding to many problems we experience today with ticks and fleas, as well as general knowledge into the understanding of animals and their needs,” he said. Dave entered mixed practice in 1979 and became a partner in a successful veterinary practice until 2005, when he resigned and founded Equine Veterinary Services where he focused on his love and speciality, the horse. He was also a founder of a productive veterinary wholesalers company. With the boom of the internet and the advancement of online shopping, Dave and his wife, Anne, developed Vet Products Online in 2000. VPO, as it is affectionately known, demanded much of Dr Dave’s time, and he ensured that the products offered are reputable and of the best quality. He also prioritised client relationships, spending time with them, making sure that they chose the right product. His dedication and love for animals is well known. He was extremely active in veterinary circles, having been an external examiner for Veterinary Science as well as serving two terms as President of the South African Equine Association. Having competed at a provincial level as a horse rider, Dave had personal experience with sport horses and he moved on to breeding Thoroughbreds and racing their progeny, but his passion for veterinary work was always uppermost in his vocation. “For the love of those that cannot talk to us”