Dr. Gregg Knape was raised on a farm in Alvin, TX. The farm produced dairy products along with hay. The success of the farm depended largely on the health and well-being of the livestock on the farm. Dr. Knape early on showed a knack for taking care of these animals and keeping them healthy. His love for animals led him to Texas A&M University where he graduated in 1976 with a degree in veterinary medicine specializing in “Farm Animals.” After graduation, he went to work in Nacogdoches, Texas for Doctors Jim and Mike Ward. He continued this work for five years before returning to the dairy farm to begin his own practice. He was accompanied by his wife and practice manager, Cheryl, whom he met in a high school biology class. Cheryl is not only the practice manager, but as she puts it, “has done every job here.” Dr. Knape has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. The one that he holds with pride was the implementation of mandatory drug testing for all livestock shown at the local rodeo. He chaired this board starting in 1989 and oversaw the compliance. It made the show fair for everyone and is used to this day [citation].