Glenn Palmer, DVM

Accountable. Hands-on. Dependable.

Current Employer & Job Title: Palmer Veterinary Clinic, Co-owner

Age: 40

Hometown: Plattsburgh, NY

Education: Cornell University: Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

They say the animals know good people and Glenn certainly seems to have their vote. Caring for them all, big and small, he never knows if he’ll be in the office or on a farm call. Pairing a warm smile and welcoming nature with a desire to help pets, live stock and their owners, he finds the best available outcomes.

In three words, how would others describe your personal brand—and where do those traits show up most in your work?

Accountable, hands-on, dependable. 

I lead by doing—whether that’s cleaning an exam room, preparing for a complicated case, or supporting a team member through a tough day. I believe leadership means showing up wherever you’re needed and being someone others can rely on.

What aspect of your organization’s culture do you protect or promote most fiercely—and how have you influenced it?

Our motto says it best: “Where Caring People Care for Animals.” I work to create an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves, because that authenticity translates directly into how we care for animals and clients. I reinforce that culture by hiring for character, supporting open communication, and making sure every team member feels respected and valued.

Where do you invest your time outside of work, and what motivates your commitment to those efforts?

I invest my time in family and fitness. My wife and I work hard to provide for our children, and I’m motivated to show them that hard work, time management, compassion, and empathy aren’t just values—they’re habits you practice every day that create success.

Who has most influenced your leadership style—and what specific lesson from them still shapes how you lead today?

A high school coach had a lasting impact on me. He demanded accountability and consistent effort from everyone, without exception; effort was more important than skill. That experience instilled in me a strong work ethic and a team-first mindset that still shapes how I lead today.

Where are you making your greatest impact right now—in your organization, industry, or community—and how do you measure it?

My greatest impact is within Palmer Veterinary Clinic. Over the past 12 years, we’ve grown into a stronger, more capable organization with a team that takes pride in what they do. I measure success by the development of our staff and the culture we’ve built—one that will continue to move the clinic forward well into the future.

What’s something about you that would surprise people—and what does it reveal about how you think or operate?

Cattle are my favorite animal, and I function similarly to them—moderately social, herd-oriented, and easygoing. At the same time, I value quiet time for reflection and rumination.

What is one lesson your career has taught you that you had to learn the hard way—and how has it changed you?

Early in my career, I tended to focus heavily on the medical facts of a case and assume that a clear recommendation would be received and acted on consistently across clients. Over time, I learned that identical clinical situations can require very different approaches depending on the client’s understanding, priorities, and capacity to act on recommendations. That realization changed how I practice—I now spend as much time tailoring communication and decision-making to the client as I do evaluating the medical problem itself. It’s made outcomes more consistent and improved trust in the process.

What’s one idea, belief, or change you hope to see shape the future of leadership in our region?

I hope to see more leaders focused on listening and building consensus. Taking the time to understand different perspectives leads to better decisions and stronger teams. Creating that kind of alignment isn’t easy, but it’s essential for long-term success.