The life and work of Dr. Jacques Jenny, a pioneer of veterinary orthopedic surgery, inspired, in part, the conception and construction of the Richard S. Reynolds, Jr. Comparative Orthopedic Laboratory at New Bolton Center. Born and raised in Ennenda, Switzerland, Dr. Jenny studied veterinary medicine at the University of Zurich and later at the Alfort National Veterinary School in France. He left Europe in 1948 for America where he eventually was appointed Instructor of Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Jenny was an energetic teacher and a prolific orthopedic surgeon in both small and large animals. His work on the biology of bone healing using intramedullary pinning, Kuentscher nailing and external skeletal fixation in small animals helped to established their use in fracture treatment.

     He was the first veterinarian to make use of the Swiss ASIF system for the treatment of fractures in horses. This early pioneering effort was to have far-reaching affects on equine orthopedics and leaves his legacy as the father of equine orthopedic surgery. The C. Mahlon Kline Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Center at New Bolton Center was his vision. This Orthopedic building incorporated a laminar flow operating room and a recovery swimming pool system that was the first of its kind. The Richard S. Reynolds, Jr. Comparative Orthopedic Research Laboratory is an addition to the north side of this building, and fulfills Dr Jenny’s vision of clinical and research efforts joining forces to solve comparative orthopedic problems.

     When the American College of Veterinary Surgeons was founded in Philadelphia, Dr Jenny chaired the organizing committee and served as the College’s first president. Dr. Jenny’s inventiveness and enthusiasm encouraged the progress of modern comparative orthopedics. With great respect and enduring fondness, the University and the entire veterinary community remains loyally grateful.