Michael Dryden, DVM, MS, PhD is a Professor of Veterinary Parasitology, in the Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology at Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas. He is active in several professional associations, including the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists, the American Veterinary Medical Association and was a founding member of the Companion Animal Parasite Council. Dr. Dryden -- known affectionately as "Dr. Flea" -- is the author or co-author of over 100 journal articles and book chapters, has lectured in 21 countries and presented over 750 invited seminars at national and international meetings. His current research efforts are directed towards flea and tick biology and control, investigating urban wildlife as vectors of parasitic diseases and diagnosis & control of gastrointestinal parasites.
In 1995 he was awarded the “Pfizer Award for Research Excellence” for contributions that significantly advance our knowledge of animal health. In 2005 he was awarded the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association’s “KSU-Distinguished Service Award”. In 2006 he earned the Teaching Excellence Award in recognition of outstanding instruction of second year veterinary students. In 2007 he received the Recognition Award in Urban Entomology from the North Central Branch of the Entomological Society of America. In 2010 he was awarded the “Excellence in Teaching Award” from the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. Recognizing contributions to the education of future veterinary dermatologists at American College of Veterinary Dermatology Residents’ Forum.