Dr. Brad Tanner
DVM, DAVDC-EQ
Dr. Brad Tanner is a highly respected equine veterinarian and one of the few Board-Certified Veterinary Dentists™ in the world. With a lifelong passion for horses, cultivated on his family’s farm in Kentucky,
Dr. Tanner has dedicated his career to advancing equine dentistry, reproduction, and neonatal care.
Dr. Tanner began his academic journey at the University of Kentucky, earning a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science in 2001. He then pursued his veterinary degree at Auburn University, graduating in 2005.
Shortly after, he completed an ambulatory internship at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, where he later became an associate and served as the resident veterinarian for Shadwell Farm. In 2012, Dr. Brad Tanner’s expertise and dedication earned him a position as a shareholder at Rood & Riddle.
Specializing in equine dentistry and sinus disease, Dr. Tanner’s practice also encompasses Thoroughbred reproduction, neonatal medicine, and herd health.
He handles a significant caseload of advanced referral cases, providing cutting-edge dental and surgical care to equine patients. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Tanner is a prolific educator, frequently lecturing at national and international veterinary conferences and publishing research in both dentistry and reproduction.
Dr. Brad Tanner is deeply committed to organized veterinary medicine and serves on various committees for professional organizations, including the AVMA, AAEP, and the College of Veterinary Dentistry.
His contributions to the field extend to mentoring the next generation of veterinarians, ensuring the future of equine veterinary medicine is in capable hands.
When not working, the University of Kentucky graduate enjoys life on his farm in Versailles, Kentucky, with his wife, Susie, and their two sons, Colton and Jacob.
The family raises Thoroughbred foals and shares a love of outdoor activities. Dr. Tanner also spends time coaching youth sports and attending live sporting events, especially UK basketball, horse racing, and Major League Baseball games.
Dr. Brad Tanner’s blend of clinical expertise, dedication to education, and passion for equine health continues to elevate the standards of veterinary care for horses around the globe.
Wisdom Beyond Expertise
Dr. Brad Tanner’s expertise in equine veterinary medicine is unquestionable, but it’s his dedication to elevating the standards of care in equine dentistry that truly sets him apart.
His approach to sharing knowledge through mentorship, collaboration, and education resonates deeply within the equine veterinary community.
During a recent Q&A, Dr. Brad Tanner shared insightful reflections on what he wishes all veterinarians knew about equine dentistry, his most memorable cases, and the life experiences that continue to shape his career.
These moments underscore the profound impact he has had on his field.
Three Things Every Veterinarian Should Know About Equine Dentistry
When asked about the key fundamentals all equine veterinarians should know, Dr. Brad Tanner emphasized three pillars:
Speaking the Same Language
“It’s important that we all speak the same language,” he explains, noting the need for a unified nomenclature system in equine dentistry.
Familiarity with systems like the Triadan numbering system ensures accurate communication among veterinarians, especially when sharing case information.
Dental Anatomy Mastery
Knowing what’s normal and what isn’t can make all the difference. From pulp horn appearances to the intricacies of dentition, Dr. Tanner encourages veterinarians to delve deeper into understanding dental anatomy.
This knowledge equips practitioners to diagnose and treat with confidence.
The Value of Radiographic Precision
“Taking quality radiographs is critical,” Dr. Brad Tanner advises, highlighting the importance of sharing diagnostic images that are clear and informative.
Accurate radiographs not only facilitate better diagnoses but also improve collaboration when consulting with peers.
A Testament to Dedication
Dr. Tanner’s stories about his most challenging and rewarding cases provide a glimpse into his unwavering commitment to his patients.
One case involved a miniature horse with complex dental abnormalities, requiring a standing extraction under challenging conditions.
Despite the difficulties, Dr. Brad Tanner’s meticulous care earned him gratitude from the owner, who continues to send him annual thank-you notes and flowers. “It was early in my career, and hearing encouragement from a senior surgeon about the effort I put in meant the world to me,” he recalls.
Another memorable case featured a rescue pony with a fractured jaw. Dr. Tanner’s innovative approach to treatment not only restored the pony’s health but also brought joy to its seven-year-old owner.
“The holiday cards and photos of the little girl riding the pony are moments that remind me why I do this,” Dr. Tanner says with a smile.
The Lighter Side of Life
When he’s not solving complex dental cases or lecturing internationally, Dr. Tanner enjoys simple pleasures. A tropical island vacation ranks high on his list of escapes, offering a sunny reprieve from the cold winters of Kentucky.
And when it comes to dessert? Apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is his favorite indulgence.
Why Dr. Brad Tanner’s Approach Matters
Dr. Tanner’s blend of clinical expertise, passion for mentorship, and genuine care for his patients embodies the future of equine veterinary medicine.
His dedication to not only treating horses but also teaching his peers ensures that the next generation of veterinarians will have the skills and knowledge to elevate equine care further.
Through his contributions to research, education, and clinical practice, Dr. Brad Tanner continues to leave an indelible mark on the field, inspiring veterinarians worldwide to strive for excellence.
For those inspired by Dr. Tanner’s journey, the Equine Practice Company offers an array of resources and programs to support your growth in equine veterinary medicine.
Join us in advancing your expertise and contributing to the future of this incredible field.