Dr. Apryle Horbal
VMD, MPhil, Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College (Equine Subspecialty)
Dr. Apryle Horbal is a board-certified specialist in equine dentistry and oral surgery, a leader in veterinary telemedicine, and the founder of VetNOW, a groundbreaking telehealth platform that bridges the gap between animal care providers and their clients globally.
Dr. Horbal’s career reflects a passion for innovation, education, and expanding access to veterinary services in underserved regions.
After earning her Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris (VMD) degree and a BA in Biological Basis of Behavior from the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Apryle Horbal completed a large animal internship at Texas A&M University’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.
She then pursued a residency in equine dentistry and soft tissue surgery at the University of Edinburgh Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, where she earned a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) for her research.
In 2017, she founded VetNOW to address the growing need for accessible, high-quality veterinary services and has since become a recognized leader in veterinary telehealth.
Dr. Apryle Horbal is one of just 21 board-certified specialists in equine dentistry, a distinction granted by the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC). Her expertise extends beyond clinical practice, as she actively teaches and mentors veterinarians worldwide while serving on committees such as the AVDC Equine Training Support Committee.
Her work reflects a commitment to leveraging technology to provide veterinary care across rural and urban landscapes, as well as internationally in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, where VetNOW partners with organizations like GALVmed and NADIS to improve livestock health.
In addition to her clinical and technological contributions, Dr. Apryle Horbal is an advocate for sustainable veterinary practices. She has worked tirelessly to make advanced animal care accessible, empowering farmers and veterinarians to achieve better outcomes through education and innovation.
Dr. Horbal also brings her expertise to her role as a member of the Pennsylvania Board of Veterinary Medicine, where she helps shape the future of veterinary practice standards.
When she’s not advancing veterinary care, Dr. Apryle Horbal enjoys time with her horse Wynter, skiing, running, and exploring the outdoors with her family.
Dr. Apryle Horbal’s career reflects a unique blend of clinical excellence, innovation, and a commitment to reshaping the veterinary profession through advanced technology.
With her groundbreaking work in equine dentistry and veterinary telemedicine, Dr. Horbal has not only raised the standard of care but also expanded its accessibility to regions and communities worldwide.
Recently, she shared her valuable insights into equine dentistry, her professional philosophy, and some heartwarming personal moments.
Three Pillars of Equine Dentistry
When asked about the key principles she wishes all equine veterinarians understood about dentistry, Dr. Horbal highlighted three critical aspects:
Focus on Added Value, Not Comparison
Dr. Apryle Horbal emphasized the importance of distinguishing veterinary expertise from dental technicians by highlighting the unique value veterinarians bring. “It’s not about what they lack; it’s about the value we add,” she explained.
“You’re not just working on teeth; you’re working on the horse as a whole.” This holistic perspective ensures the highest quality of care across a horse’s lifespan.
The Examination is Everything
“The oral exam is the most important thing you’ll do in a horse’s mouth,”
Dr. Apryle Horbal stressed. She encourages veterinarians to take their time, ensuring a thorough examination with proper sedation, a speculum, a good light source, and tools like a mirror or dental scope. “It’s not about filing teeth smooth; it’s about assessing the entire mouth and identifying issues early.”
Charge Appropriately for Your Expertise
Dr. Horbal underscored the importance of valuing one’s time and skills. “Yes, you’re more expensive than a dental technician,” she acknowledged, “but that’s because of the value you bring and the comprehensive care you provide.” Charging appropriately not only reflects the level of expertise but also ensures the sustainability of high-quality veterinary services.
Memorable Moments and Personal Connections
Dr. Apryle Horbal’s passion for horses extends beyond her professional life. Reflecting on a recent moment with her young horse, she shared a heartwarming story: “I just took my little baby horse to the trainer a few days ago, and it was her first time off the farm.
Her reactions were priceless—like a little kid going to school for the first time.” From meeting a dog for the first time to exploring a new environment, the horse’s curiosity and innocence were moments of pure joy for Dr. Apryle Horbal.
A Life of Adventure and Dedication
While her work keeps her deeply engaged, Dr. Horbal also finds joy in outdoor adventures. When asked to choose between a tropical island or an adventure holiday, she replied, “An adventure up a mountain, not on a beach.”
This spirit of exploration mirrors her professional journey – always seeking new heights and challenges.
Her preferences extend to her daily habits as well. “Coffee, for sure. Black and strong,” she said with conviction, embodying the energy and focus she brings to her work. And when it comes to desserts? “Pumpkin pie all the time. I even eat it in the middle of summer!”
Why Dr. Apryle Horbal Loves What She Does
Dr. Horbal’s passion for equine dentistry and telemedicine stems from the immediate and lasting impact these services have on animals and their owners.
Her dedication to ensuring that advanced care reaches underserved areas and her advocacy for sustainable veterinary practices set her apart as a leader in the field.
Through her work with VetNOW, Dr. Horbal has created opportunities for veterinarians to connect with clients and improve animal care worldwide. Her commitment to innovation, education, and compassion ensures that the next generation of veterinarians will continue to build on her legacy.
Dr. Apryle Horbal’s career is a shining example of what is possible when expertise, vision, and passion converge. Her contributions to equine dentistry and veterinary telemedicine are not just advancing the field but also inspiring veterinarians to reimagine the future of animal care.
With her unique ability to blend clinical mastery with technological innovation, Dr. Apryle Horbal is shaping the future of veterinary medicine, ensuring that every horse – and every community – has access to the highest standard of care.
