When people die, it is as if a small pebble has been tossed into a pool of water and a few ripples radiate from the point of impact. When others leave us, it is as if a rock lands in the water and sends waves with effects that are far-reaching. The passing of Dr. Ron J. Faoro was like a boulder hitting the ocean and creating a tsunami.
Dr. Faoro made his way to Santa Barbara in 1981, shortly after he received his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University, and he immediately fell in love with the community. He quickly found his forever home at St. Francis Pet Clinic. Many of his first clients remain to this day.
As a veterinarian, Ron had an intelligence, charisma, and passion that were unparalleled. The minute he stepped foot in the hospital, his energy was everywhere. He was inspired by medicine and surgery and was constantly excited by challenging cases, imparting to everyone who worked with him how privileged they were to be a part of such an amazing profession. He could go into any exam room and come out with an amazing story and a new friend. Each day was different, sometimes having to say good-bye to an old friend, other times getting kisses with puppy breath still lingering. Dr. Faoro loved them all. He heroically saved both the pets at his clinic as well as the ones awaiting adoption at shelters throughout Santa Barbara County. For this reason, he was honored as a Local Hero in The Santa Barbara Independent and was considered the "Saint" of St. Francis Pet Clinic.