Bruce Fogle, a Canadian-born veterinarian living in London, bridges science and compassion, healing animals and inspiring millions through writing over five decades.
He is best known as the founder of the London Veterinary Clinic, co-founder of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and author of more than 20 books on animal care and behaviour. Honoured with an MBE by Queen Elizabeth II in 2004 for his services to the deaf community, Bruce Fogle’s life reflects a rare blend of professional excellence and humanitarian spirit.
This is the story of Bruce Fogle—whose devotion to animals has improved countless lives worldwide and set a profound example of service.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bruce Fogle |
| Date of Birth / Age | 17 February 1944 — 81 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian (long-time resident of the UK) |
| Education | Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.), Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph (1970) |
| Profession | Veterinarian, Author, Animal Welfare Advocate |
| Family | Spouse: Julia Foster (m. 1973) – English actress. Children: Emily, Ben, and Tamara Fogle |
| Height / Hair / Eyes | Approx. 5’10” (estimated); white hair; blue eyes |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Around US$5 million |
| Known For | Founder of the London Veterinary Clinic; Co-founder of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People; Author of best-selling pet care books; MBE (2004) |
Early Life and Education
Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1944, Bruce Fogle’s childhood was filled with curiosity, compassion, and a love of animals. Growing up in post-war Canada, he developed a fascination for nature and a strong sense of empathy — qualities that later defined his life’s work.
As a boy, Bruce was known for bringing home injured birds and stray cats, attempting to nurse them back to health. His innate care for living creatures naturally evolved into a desire to become a veterinarian.
After completing school in Toronto, he enrolled at the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, one of North America’s leading veterinary institutions. In 1970, he graduated as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.), setting the foundation for a career that would take him across the Atlantic to the United Kingdom.
Personal and Family Life
In 1973, while working in London, Bruce met and married Julia Foster, a celebrated English actress known for her roles in Alfie (1966) and The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner (1962). Together, they built a warm, family-oriented home filled with both people and pets.
The couple has three children:
- Emily Fogle, an art director;
- Ben Fogle, the well-known adventurer, author, and broadcaster;
- Tamara Fogle, a talented handbag designer.
The Fogles’ household has always been lively — full of creativity, laughter, and loyal dogs. Julia later shifted her focus from acting to antiques, becoming an expert in Swedish painted furniture. Despite their high-profile careers, the family remains grounded and closely connected by their shared love of animals and simple living.
Career Journey
Early Work: From the Zoo to Private Practice
After qualifying as a vet, Bruce moved to London in 1970 and began his career at the London Zoo in Regent’s Park. There, he treated exotic animals — lions, monkeys, reptiles — and gained a deep understanding of diverse species.
A few years later, he joined a small-animal practice in Knightsbridge, where he began focusing on the pets that would become his lifelong speciality: dogs and cats.
In 1973, he opened his own clinic, first called the Portman Veterinary Clinic and later renamed the London Veterinary Clinic. From the beginning, Fogle’s approach combined clinical precision with kindness. He always emphasized preventive care and understanding animal behaviour. Over the years, his clinic became one of London’s most respected veterinary centres, known for ethical standards and personal service.
Author, Educator, and Voice for Animals
Alongside his practice, Bruce began writing — first to educate pet owners, then as a calling in itself. His first book, Pets and Their People (1979), explored the emotional bond between humans and their pets. It struck a chord, launching him as one of the world’s most trusted voices on pet care.
Since then, he has published over 20 books, many of which became international bestsellers. Among them:
- The Encyclopaedia of the Dog
- The Encyclopaedia of the Cat
- The Dog’s Mind: Understanding Your Dog’s Behavior
- ASPCA Complete Dog Care Manual
Fogle’s writing style is simple, compassionate, and practical. He helps pet owners understand veterinary science in everyday language. His works have been translated worldwide and remain staples for animal lovers and students alike.
He also served as a veterinary consultant to Microsoft Encarta and Encyclopædia Britannica, ensuring accurate, science-based animal knowledge reached millions of readers globally.
Philanthropy and Advocacy: Hearing Dogs for Deaf People
In 1982, Bruce Fogle co-founded Hearing Dogs for Deaf People with Lady Beatrice Wright. The idea was revolutionary — to train dogs to alert deaf individuals to important household sounds such as alarms, doorbells, and babies crying.
The charity started small but soon became a national institution. Over the years, it has paired thousands of trained dogs with hearing-impaired owners, changing lives across the UK.
For his immense contribution to this cause, Bruce Fogle was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2004.
He continues to serve as a trustee and advocate for the charity, while also supporting global animal-welfare initiatives through Humane Society International and the World Animal Protection Foundation.
Media and Public Engagement
Bruce’s calm, reassuring presence made him a natural for broadcasting. For many years, he was a regular guest on BBC Radio 2, first alongside Jimmy Young, later with Jeremy Vine, answering listener questions about pets and behaviour.
He also contributed to television programmes, newspapers, and magazines, spreading awareness of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. Through his media work, he became not just a vet but a teacher to millions of pet owners across Britain.
Life Challenges and Turning Points
Bruce Fogle’s journey, though successful, hasn’t been without trials:
- Starting from Scratch in London: Moving to a new country at 26, with no network or reputation, was a daunting step — but one that shaped his resilience.
- Balancing Practice and Fame: Managing a busy clinic while writing international bestsellers required enormous discipline and focus.
- Resisting Corporate Pressure: As big companies bought out many independent UK vet practices, Bruce resisted offers to sell his clinic — determined to keep his values intact.
- Personal Aging and Reflection: In later life, he has spoken about slowing down, mentoring younger vets, and finding peace in daily work and quiet time with his family and pets.
These moments define his character: principled, independent, and deeply human.
Current Life and Career
Now in his eighties, Bruce Fogle continues to live and work in London. He still oversees the London Veterinary Clinic, ensuring it maintains its independent, ethical spirit.
His days are divided between professional duties, charity work, and family life. Although semi-retired, he remains active in the animal welfare community. He writes occasional essays, attends events for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and offers advice to younger vets.
At home, he enjoys a slower rhythm, spending time with his wife Julia and their loyal golden retriever, Bean, whose affectionate nature has often been featured in his writings.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
As of 2025, Bruce Fogle’s net worth is estimated at around US$5 million. His income sources include:
- His privately owned veterinary clinic
- Royalties from international book sales
- Consulting and speaking engagements
- Advisory roles for animal-welfare organizations
Despite his success, Bruce has always led a modest lifestyle. His independence and integrity — choosing compassion over commercialization — are among the reasons he’s so admired.
Public Image and Personality
In the public eye, Bruce Fogle embodies kindness, intelligence, and trustworthiness. He is widely respected not just as a vet but as a humane educator — a man who treats animals and people with equal empathy.
Pet owners praise his down-to-earth advice; fellow vets admire his lifelong dedication; and the media sees him as a calm, credible voice amid the noise of trends and quick fixes.
His relationship with his son, Ben Fogle, has also captured public affection — the two share an evident bond built on curiosity, respect, and a love of the outdoors.
Fun Facts and Anecdotes
- Bruce’s first animal patient in the UK was a Persian cat belonging to a London socialite — a sharp contrast to the lions and elephants he treated at the zoo.
- His dog Bean has appeared in family interviews and online posts, becoming a small celebrity in her own right.
- When asked if animals should be treated “like people,” Bruce once replied: “No—better. Because they give us love without expectation.”
- Despite being semi-retired, he still occasionally answers long-time clients’ calls himself.
Conclusion
Bruce Fogle’s story is one of compassion, leadership, and tireless service to animals and people. From a curious boy in Toronto to a renowned veterinarian in London, he stands as a model of dedication and empathy.
Through his clinic, books, and advocacy, Fogle’s work has touched both human and animal lives. His legacy reminds us that genuine success is built on kindness and service to others.
Today, Dr. Bruce Fogle stands as one of the most respected figures in veterinary science and animal welfare — a man whose heart has always been exactly where it belongs: with the animals.
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(FAQs)
1. Who is Bruce Fogle?
Bruce Fogle is a Canadian-born veterinarian, author, and animal welfare advocate who founded the London Veterinary Clinic and co-founded Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.
2. When did he marry, and who is his wife?
He married English actress Julia Foster in 1973.
3. Does he have children?
Yes. He has three children: Emily, Ben, and Tamara Fogle.
4. What does he do today?
He continues to oversee the London Veterinary Clinic and supports several animal welfare charities.
5. What is Bruce Fogle’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is around US$5 million, earned through veterinary practice, book sales, and consulting.