Oswald Harris King III

Dr. Oswald, affectionately known as Sonny, hails from the charming town of Blakely, Georgia. He completed both his undergraduate and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degrees at The University of Georgia. During his academic journey, Dr. King undertook an externship at Smith Animal Hospital in Spartanburg, where he fell in love with the town and its warm, welcoming community. This experience was further enriched when he married a local resident, solidifying his connection to Spartanburg, where he has happily resided ever since.

Dr. King’s passion for veterinary medicine ignited during his freshman year at veterinary school. From the moment he stepped into his classes, he knew he had found his calling. His favorite aspect of working with animals is witnessing the joy and relief on the faces of children and elderly clients when he successfully helps their beloved pets.

Professionally, Dr. King has a profound interest in canine sports medicine and nutrition, alongside a fascination with the unique quirks of cat ownership. His dedication to the veterinary field is highlighted by his decade-long involvement in the mushing community, including four years as a trail veterinarian and six years as a musher in the renowned Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Dr. King’s exemplary service has earned him prestigious accolades such as The Golden Stethoscope Award, bestowed by the mushers, and The Leonhard Seppala Award for excellence in dog care from his fellow veterinarians. These honors cement his legacy in the Iditarod history.

In addition to his many professional achievements, Dr. King has been recognized with numerous city and state awards, the most notable being The Order of the Palmetto. This distinguished award, presented by the Governor of South Carolina, honors his lifetime of extraordinary achievements and contributions on both national and statewide levels.

Outside of his veterinary practice, Dr. King enjoys a fulfilling personal life. He is married with four grown children and three grandchildren. In his leisure time, he is an avid supporter of University of Georgia sports and relishes the tranquility of farm life. Dr. King’s commitment to his community, profession, and family continues to make him a beloved figure at Smith Animal Hospital and beyond.