Blog Series: A Different Kind of Equine Veterinary Career - Part 1
Part 1: So, You’re Thinking About Equine Practice…
Let’s be honest. If you’ve ever considered (or are currently working in) equine veterinary medicine, you’ve probably heard it all:
- “The hours are brutal.”
- “You are always on call.”
- "The pay doesn't match the work."
- "Most people burn out."
And you know what? For too many equine vets, those things have been true. It’s no wonder there’s a nationwide shortage of veterinarians staying in equine practice. The profession has been asking people to give everything—often at the cost of their health, happiness, or family life.
But here’s the thing: at Oakhurst Equine Veterinary Services we believe it doesn’t have to be that way.
Why Are Equine Vets Leaving Practice?
The shortage isn’t because people stopped loving horses. Quite the opposite—our passion for these animals runs deep. The real reasons are pretty clear:
- Work-life balance (or the lack of it)
- Compensation and benefits that don’t reflect the commitment required
- Isolation—the feeling you’re out there on your own without support
- Uncertainty about what the future of an equine career looks like
If you’ve felt any of this—you’re not alone. And you’re exactly who we want to talk to.
What Makes Us Different
At Oakhurst Equine Veterinary Services, we’ve built our practice around a different model:
- Your life matters. When you’re off, you’re really off. We believe rest makes you a better vet—and a happier human.
- Your career should grow with you. Whether you’re drawn to sports medicine, surgery, reproduction, or general practice, we’ll invest in your growth and professional development.
- You’re never on an island. Our team culture is collaborative and supportive—help is never more than a phone call away.
- Compensation that respects your value. We offer competitive salary, strong benefits, and opportunities to grow financially with the practice.
Why You’ll Love It Here
Imagine practicing high-quality equine medicine in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country. You’ve got supportive colleagues, clients who respect you, and the freedom to recharge and enjoy your life—whether that’s hiking, riding, wine tasting, or just slowing down to breathe.
We’re not just offering a job. We’re offering a career that feels sustainable, meaningful, and—dare we say it—fun.
.If you’re an equine veterinarian who’s ever thought, “There has to be a better way to do this,”—we’d love to show you that there is.
Reach out. Let’s talk. Even if you’re just curious. Sometimes the best conversations start with a simple hello. Contact cookie@oakhurstequine.com or call my cell 971-533-6421.
Coming up in Part 2: A Day in the Life at Oakhurst. Spoiler alert: it’s not what you’ve been told equine practice has to be.
