Advancing ethical education in veterinary medicine—for the animals who trust us, and the people who love them.
As a veterinarian I have seen horses lift up children experiencing disabilities, and help adolescent girls navigate the challenges of growing up. I’ve watched dogs provide companionship and protection to women escaping domestic violence, and be a source of unconditional love and support to people living on the street. I’ve also seen these same animals suffer at the hands of humans. Sometimes abuse is intentional. More often it is unintended, and the result of misunderstanding or a lack of education.
After 30 years, I left my career as an equine veterinarian behind to explore the field of bioethics, and consider how the tenets of human medical ethics might be applied to veterinary medicine.
Through this work I’ve found my passion, and made a commitment to raise awareness and provide education about the ethical choices we make as animal caretakers.
Dr. Barb Crabbe
I graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and completed an internship in large animal medicine and surgery at Washington State University. While at UC Davis, I also pursued graduate research in biomechanics, studying patterns of locomotion in exercising horses.
For 30 years, I owned and led Pacific Crest Sporthorse, a three-doctor equine practice in Oregon, where I focused on performance horse medicine. I’m an FEI official veterinarian in Dressage and Jumping and was part of the treatment team for the 2018 World Equestrian Games.
In early 2023, I passed my practice on to my long-term associates so I could fully pursue my passion for ethics in veterinary medicine. I earned my Master’s degree in Bioethics from Loyola University Chicago’s Neiswanger Institute of Bioethics and am currently working toward my doctorate at Loyola. I also serve on the AVMA’s Council on Veterinary Services and the AAEP’s Ethics and Professional Conduct Committee.
Writing has been another rewarding part of my career. I frequently contribute to publications like Horse & Rider and Dressage Today, and my articles have received several American Horse Publications awards. My book, Comprehensive Guide to Equine Veterinary Medicine, was published by Sterling Publishing in 2007.
Outside of work, I’m an avid dressage rider and USDF silver medalist, with multiple USDF regional championships and Horse of the Year titles to my name. I’m also a USDF-L graduate with distinction.
