Dave completed a BSc degree (biochemistry) at the University of Guelph and a MSc degree in biochemistry at the University of Toronto. He returned to the University of Guelph for DVM training and practiced at an emergency clinic after graduation before enrolling in the DVSc program at the University of Guelph to study laboratory animal science. After completing the DVSc degree he worked in industry at the vaccine company Sanofi Pasteur as a QC Manager/Veterinarian.

He then moved to the research hospital setting where he held a Clinical Veterinarian position at the University Health Network in Toronto. Since 2014 he has held the role of University Regulatory Veterinarian and Director, Animal Ethics and Compliance, at the U of Toronto. He is a diplomate of the ACLAM which certifies veterinary specialists in lab animal medicine.