Dr. David Handel attended Cornell University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree, and Auburn University, where he received his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.
After graduating in 1991, he completed a rigorous internship in small animal medicine and surgery. He has extensive experience in surgery, internal medicine, dermatology, animal behavior, dental care, and exotic animal medicine.
Dr. Handel is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist and Veterinary Chiropractor as well as a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner. He received acupuncture certification from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in June 2007. Dr. Handel is certified in Veterinary Chiropractic by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. He successfully completed a 210-hour intensive course at Options for Animals. He received his certification in Canine Rehabilitation from the University of Tennessee. He is also fear-free certified.
In 2009, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley appointed Dr. Handel to serve on the Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. In 2016, Dr. Handel was appointed as President of the State Board of Medical Examiners. He served for 12 years on the Board, including 5 as the President. Dr. Handel is currently President of the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association and a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture, the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, and the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. He is the current President of the Maryland State Board of Veterinary Technicians and also serves on the Gaithersburg Animal Control Board.
In his free time, Dr. Handel enjoys gardening and spending time with his family, including his wife, three children, and his mini-Goldendoodle, Cedric. He is also an avid runner, having completed over 40 marathons and ultra-marathons, including the Boston Marathon, New York Marathon, and the Comrades Ultra Marathon. If you live in the area, you have probably seen him out running!
