Dr. Nelson is a native of the western part of Kentucky and attended undergraduate school at Murray State University. Being accepted to Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1973 was a highlight of his life. After graduation in 1977, he accepted a position at Stage Road Animal Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, primarily doing surgery. In late 1979, he returned to Alabama and settled in Huntsville, where he practiced small animal medicine and surgery until the late 1980s. In early 1990, after answering a call by God to follow his leading, Dr. Nelson began doing livestock work to help support the local area farmers. In October 1990, he bought Country Clinic and started growing it into what we all know today as Countryside Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Nelson is certified by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association and enjoys working in the practice. In his off time, he enjoys working and riding endurance races. He and his wife Rebecca have five dogs, two cats, and nine horses [citation].