Dr. Rachel Tan
BVSc GradCertEd DipVetClinStud DipPM CPPMMANZCVS CertVetAc MS DipACVIM
When it comes to large animal internal medicine, few names resonate with as much respect and influence as Dr. Rachel Tan. With over two decades of distinguished contributions across clinical practice, academia, and veterinary research, Dr. Tan has carved a legacy defined by excellence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to animal health.
A Specialist Rooted in Experience and Academic Distinction
Dr. Rachel Tan’s journey in veterinary medicine began with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science with Honours from the University of Sydney in 1997. Her early years in mixed practice along the South Coast of New South Wales grounded her in the realities of both small and large animal care, fostering the deep clinical insight that would later underpin her specialization.
After gaining Membership in Equine Medicine with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) in 2001, Dr. Tan advanced through a rigorous internship and residency in equine medicine and surgery at the University of Sydney.
There, she also served as an equine registrar, managing a range of hospital, ambulatory, and reproductive services, while also guiding the next generation of veterinary students.
International Credentials, Global Perspective
In pursuit of deeper expertise, Dr. Tan moved to the United States to undertake a prestigious combined Master’s degree and residency in Large Animal Internal Medicine at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech).
She was appointed Chief Resident during the final year of her program and earned the highly respected title of Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), a distinction held by only a select group of veterinary specialists globally.
Her time in the U.S. also included certification in Veterinary Medical Acupuncture at Colorado State University, reinforcing her holistic approach to veterinary care across species.
Architect of Academic Excellence
In 2008, Dr. Tan returned to Australia and became a founding faculty member of the Bachelor of Veterinary Science program at James Cook University (JCU). She spearheaded the development and delivery of the Equine Clinical Studies program, establishing a benchmark for veterinary education in tropical and regional Australia.
Though she transitioned from full-time teaching in 2016, she continues to shape the academic landscape as an Adjunct Senior Lecturer at JCU and an Industry Fellow at the University of Queensland, contributing to research in equine disease, Hendra virus, and arboviral surveillance.
Research Leader and Respected Voice
Dr. Tan’s expertise is sought after not just in clinics and classrooms, but also at the forefront of veterinary science. She is the author of over 20 research papers and three book chapters, and a respected speaker at national and international veterinary conferences.
Her research spans equine respiratory, endocrine, metabolic, and infectious diseases, with a particular focus on conditions relevant to the Australian equine population.
She is also a core member of the Australian and New Zealand Equine Endocrine Group, a specialist body that provides guidance and disseminates cutting-edge research on endocrine diseases in horses.
Practitioner, Project Leader, and Community Advocate
Today, Dr. Rachel Tan wears multiple hats with exceptional grace. She serves as the Project Officer for the ANZCVS, helping to uphold the standards of veterinary excellence across Australasia.
In parallel, she continues hands-on veterinary work in private equine practice at Samford Valley Veterinary Hospital in Brisbane, where her clients benefit directly from her extraordinary depth of knowledge. Her commitment to community and continued learning is evident in her additional qualifications in education, project management, and clinical practice.
Why Dr. Rachel Tan Matters
In an era where veterinary medicine is evolving rapidly, Dr. Rachel Tan stands out as a beacon of expertise, compassion, and leadership. Whether developing educational programs, managing complex equine medical cases, or mentoring peers and students, she brings a rare blend of clinical precision and visionary thinking to every role she holds.
For anyone seeking insights on large animal internal medicine, or looking to understand the future of equine health in Australasia and beyond, Dr. Rachel Tan is not just a speaker, she’s a thought leader, educator, and pioneering force shaping the very fabric of veterinary science.