Brittany Martabano

DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVO

Brittany Martabano is a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist whose career is defined by her passion for preserving and restoring vision in animals. With extensive expertise in both equine and small animal ophthalmology, she brings a unique perspective to her work, blending advanced clinical skills with a deep understanding of the human-animal bond.

Based in Colorado, Brittany Martabano divides her time between BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Hospital, where she treats dogs and cats, and her own business, Summit Equine Eye Services (SEES), through which she provides specialized eye care for horses both at clinics and on farm calls.

Early Inspiration and Path to Ophthalmology

Brittany Martabano’s love for animals began in her childhood in upstate New York, where she was surrounded by horses and other farm animals. After graduating cum laude from Cornell University with a degree in Animal Science, she moved to Florida to work with wild dolphins.

During this time, she faced a personal turning point when her own thoroughbred mare developed fungal keratitis, a painful and vision-threatening eye condition. Despite intensive treatment, the eye had to be surgically removed.

This experience profoundly impacted her and sparked her interest in veterinary ophthalmology, particularly in equine eye health. Determined to make a difference for animals with ocular diseases, she pursued veterinary studies at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where she graduated cum laude and earned a Certificate in Business Management.

Advanced Training and Mentorship

Following veterinary school, Brittany Martabano completed a small animal rotating internship at North Carolina State University, gaining broad clinical experience. She then went on to complete both an ophthalmology internship and residency at Colorado State University, where she also earned a Master of Science in Veterinary Ophthalmology.

Throughout her training, she had the privilege of learning from leading specialists in equine ophthalmology, including Caryn Plummer and Dr. Dennis Brooks at the University of Florida, Dr. Brian Gilger at NC State, and Dr. Kathryn Wotman at Colorado State. This mentorship shaped her expertise and fueled her dedication to improving ocular health in horses and small animals.

Her master’s research focused on eyelid and corneal squamous cell carcinoma in horses, reflecting her long-standing interest in corneal disease and surgical innovation. She is also passionate about smartphone ocular photography, a tool that enhances diagnostics and case sharing in both field and clinical settings.

Clinical Practice and Services

As the owner of Summit Equine Eye Services, Brittany Martabano collaborates closely with equine veterinarians to deliver comprehensive eye care for horses across Colorado. In her role at BluePearl, she provides advanced ophthalmic services for small animals, treating conditions such as corneal ulcers, glaucoma, dry eye disease, and ocular trauma.

Her dual focus on equine and small animal patients allows her to bring a wide range of experience and a unique, integrative approach to her cases.

Research and Publications

Brittany Martabano has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations in veterinary ophthalmology. She is a co-author of the chapter “Ocular Manifestations of Systemic Disease” in the 4th Edition of Equine Ophthalmology, a leading textbook in the field.

Her research has explored innovative treatments for equine ocular tumors, environmental factors contributing to eye diseases in horses, and surgical techniques for complex ophthalmic conditions. Her work has been published in respected journals, including PLOS ONE, Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy, and the American Journal of Veterinary Research.

Speaking and Continuing Education

Brittany Martabano is a sought-after speaker and educator, known for her ability to simplify complex topics for general practitioners and emergency veterinarians, and she regularly contributes to equine eye health continuing education through national and regional veterinary conferences.

Her most popular lecture topics include:

Leadership and Professional Involvement

Brittany Martabano is actively involved in advancing veterinary ophthalmology through leadership and service. She serves on the Membership Promotion and Outreach Committee of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) and is a conference planning co-chair for the International Equine Ophthalmology Consortium (IEOC).

She is also a long-standing member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP).

Brittany Martabano: A Passion for Vision and Veterinary Care

From her early days working with dolphins to her current role as a trusted resource for equine and small animal eye care, Brittany Martabano’s career reflects her unwavering dedication to improving animal vision and well-being.

Through her clinical practice, research, and education, she continues to make a lasting impact on the field of veterinary ophthalmology, ensuring that both pets and horses receive the highest standard of ocular care.

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