DR. BAILEY SMITH
​
What inspired you to become
an equine veterinarian?
​
I grew up with horses, breeding and raising them, riding and competing in
many disciplines from hunter jumpers to barrel racing, and riding polo and
cutting horses to pay for school. Horses were always a necessary and
motivating part of my life. My experiences with horses becoming injured or
sick, however, were disheartening due to my limited knowledge and the
limited support available to me. Those experiences really motivated me to
seek the education and skills needed so I could help horses, and help their
owners avoid those same discouraging feelings.
​
Do you have a special area
of interest or expertise
within equine care? ​
​
I am most passionate about enhancing equine sports performance,
focusing on lameness, respiratory health and rehabilitation. I understand
the needs and demands on the competitive horse and rider, and I love
working with both to achieve their goals and overcome challenges. I find
fulfillment in treating the whole horse, not just responding to injuries and
symptoms but proactively preparing and managing the horse to unlock its
full potential.
​
What advice do you often give horse owners?
Always give your horse the benefit of the doubt – if something feels
different, or your horses’ behavior or performance changes, it is likely there
is an underlying reason that warrants investigation. Schedule pre-season,
mid-season and pre-finals soundness and health checks to ensure your
horse is at it’s best and to facilitate early detection of issues before they
escalate into injuries. Foster a consistent and collaborative relationship
with your veterinarian to enable your veterinarian to develop a familiarity
with your horse and detect more subtle changes, while providing guidance
that aligns with your goals and plans.
​
What is the most rewarding part of your job ? ​
​​
I love watching horses I have worked on compete. They are such
exceptional athletes, and I consistently marvel at what they can overcome,
and at the relationship of a horse and rider. I really value being involved in
my clients’ team and collaborating with them to reach their performance
goals. Every win, no matter the scale, feels like a shared victory!
​
What are your favourite activities to do in your free time? ​
​
I continue to ride and compete in barrel racing in my free time, and I am
grateful to get to share my passion for horses with my daughter. My
husband, Dr. Skelton, entertains our horse craze. Our little growing family is
grateful for any opportunity to travel and explore. We love our summer
days on the lake in BC and we are always eager to adventure, whether it is
a playground visit, taking the dogs for a walk or something more.
