He studied at the Royal Veterinary College, London graduating in 1889. Following graduation he practiced as a vet in Camberley until 1895. In 1896, during the period of growing unrest in South Africa, he served as Principal Veterinary Surgeon to Natal Colony. In 1898 he was promoted to Director of the Department of Disease Research. In 1901 he was further promoted to Government Bacteriologist and Director of Veterinary Services for Natal. In the Second Boer War he received the Queen's South African Badge with two bars.South African Veterinary Services, History Committee: Watkins-Pitchford
