About Paul Christiansen

Born in rural Montana in 1943, Paul grew up on a family ranch in the Big Hole Valley, where life was shaped by hard work, self-reliance, and the rhythms of the land. His early years were spent in a log house without electricity, hauling water by hand, cutting ice from the river for the icebox, and helping with daily ranch chores as his family transitioned from sheep to cattle ranching. From feeding cattle by horse-drawn sled in deep winter snow to skiing after chores were done, the ranch defined both his work ethic and his love of the outdoors.

Paul attended a one-room schoolhouse before leaving home for high school in Anaconda, a major cultural shift that opened new opportunities. He developed a passion for downhill ski racing, competing across Montana and nationally, while also learning the value of thrift and perseverance through ranch work that helped him buy his first car.

After high school, Paul attended Montana State College and Washington State University, experiences later chronicled in his book, Cowboy Medicine. He went on to practice veterinary medicine in Kamloops, British Columbia, where he also coached young ski racers, competed in cross-country ski races, and completed three full marathons.

Following the sale of his veterinary practice in 1999, Paul continued his career in animal health with Pfizer Animal Health (later Zoetis), eventually settling in Alberta. Since 2017, he has worked as a technical representative in animal nutrition, remaining deeply connected to the evolving world of agriculture.

Alongside his professional life, Paul developed a passion for woodworking, crafting custom furniture, especially benches, each piece uniquely numbered and branded with a historic cattle branding iron. Writing Cowboy Medicine has been one of his most rewarding endeavors, reconnecting him with people and stories from throughout his life. With another book taking shape, Paul continues to reflect on a lifetime of change, meaningful work, and the enduring value of sharing one’s story.