DR. JASE SKELTON
What inspired you to become
an equine veterinarian?
From a young age I always wanted to work with animals and become a
veterinarian, but it wasn't until vet school that I made the decision to focus
on horses. I was in awe of their athleticism and their incredible ability to
perform in competitive settings like no other animal. I grew up heavily
involved with human sports so competition and athletic performance has
always been very important to me and the translation to horses made
sense. Once I realized that a career as an equine veterinarian allowed me to
protect the well-being of these animals while helping them perform at their
best, I was hooked!
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What is your favourite part
of working with horses?
​My favourite part of working with horses is building a relationship with the horse
and their owner and working together to help them accomplish their goals. As veterinarians we want to solve problems, and when we are called upon to make a diagnosis and provide treatment that helps the horse recover from an injury and
return to competing, it is an amazing feeling!
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Do you have a special area
of interest or expertise
within equine care? ​
​
I am a board-certified veterinary surgeon which involved completing an
internship and a 3 year surgical residency, as well as publishing research
and passing the certifying exam. My main surgical interest is in orthopedic
surgery. Outside of surgery, I have a special interest in lameness and
diagnostic imaging.
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What is your favourite type of call and why? ​
​
As a surgeon I love the challenge of joint surgery and arthroscopy. Being
able to use minimally invasive procedures that reduce complication rates,
shorten recovery times and improve the athletic outcome is incredibly
rewarding. It allows us to make an immediate difference in helping a horse
return from injury and get back to its job sooner.
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What are your favourite activities to do in your free time? ​
​
In my limited free time I enjoy being outdoors, watching and playing sports,
mountain biking and golfing. BUT more than anything I enjoy spending time
with my wife, Dr. Bailey Smith, and our daughter, especially summers at the lake!