Dr. Erica McKenzie – A Global Authority in Veterinary Exercise Physiology
BSc, BVMS, PhD. DACVIM, DACVSMR
Dr. Erica McKenzie is an internationally respected veterinarian, educator, and researcher whose work has transformed understanding of exercise physiology and muscle disorders in animals.
As a Professor of Large Animal Internal Medicine at Oregon State University, she brings together deep clinical expertise, groundbreaking research, and a passion for advancing veterinary sports medicine worldwide.
From Australia to the Global Stage
Dr. Erica McKenzie’s veterinary journey began in 1996 when she graduated from Murdoch University School of Veterinary Science in Western Australia.
After a brief time in mixed animal practice, her drive for advanced training took her abroad, first to the University of Guelph in Canada for an internship in large animal medicine and surgery, then to the University of Minnesota for a combined residency and PhD under renowned equine muscle researcher Dr. Stephanie Valberg.
Her doctoral research focused on equine exertional rhabdomyolysis, a debilitating muscular condition affecting performance horses. This pivotal work laid the foundation for her expertise in exercise-induced diseases.
Advancing Veterinary Sports Medicine
Following her PhD, Dr. Erica McKenzie completed a two-year post-doctoral fellowship at Oklahoma State University, where she expanded her research into exercise physiology in both horses and racing sled dogs, laying the groundwork for an equine veterinary professional development pathway that equips veterinarians to translate cutting-edge science into everyday practice.
In 2005, she joined Oregon State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where she continues to teach veterinary students, train residents, and provide specialized care for large animals with complex medical needs.
Her research spans topics such as:
- Prevention and characterization of equine myopathies
- Nutritional and physiological demands of long-distance exercise
- Performance factors in elite equine and canine athletes
- Comparative exercise physiology in horses, dogs, and humans
Dr. McKenzie has authored seven book chapters and more than 30 peer-reviewed scientific papers that have shaped modern approaches to diagnosing, managing, and preventing exercise-related disease.
Leadership in the Veterinary Profession
Dr. Erica McKenzie is a charter diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (ACVSMR) and serves as a regent on its Board of Directors. She is also an active member of its national examination committee, helping to set the standard for future specialists in this emerging field.
Her leadership extends internationally as Chair of the International Conference on Equine Exercise Physiology (ICEEP), a prestigious global meeting held every four years to present cutting-edge research in equine sports medicine. In addition, she serves as an editorial consultant for several scientific journals, ensuring rigorous and high-quality scholarship in the field.
Athlete, Coach, and Educator
Outside of the lecture hall and research lab, Dr. Erica McKenzie is a dedicated elite-level amateur triathlete and helps coach the Oregon State University student triathlon club. Her personal commitment to athletic performance mirrors her professional focus, understanding the limits, resilience, and recovery of the equine and canine athletes she studies.
Bridging Science and Application
Beyond academia, Dr. Erica McKenzie is widely respected for her ability to bridge laboratory discoveries with real-world animal care.
From advising trainers on strategies to prevent exercise-related disease in horses to contributing to the health and welfare of racing sled dogs in extreme conditions, her work directly impacts the daily practices of those who care for performance animals. This practical application of science is central to her reputation as both a thought leader and a trusted advisor.
Why Dr. Erica McKenzie Matters
Dr. Erica McKenzie’s career reflects a rare blend of scientific innovation, clinical excellence, and educational impact. Her work bridges continents, species, and disciplines, offering insights that improve the health, safety, and performance of animals worldwide.
Whether in the classroom, at the research bench, or advising on the world stage, she stands as one of the most influential voices in veterinary sports medicine today.
Advance your clinical expertise with the Equine Practitioner’s Program – a continuing education experience created by equine veterinarians, for equine veterinarians.
Learn directly from world-class clinicians like Dr. Sue Dyson, a leader in equine lameness and performance evaluation, Dr. James Meyer, known for his expertise in internal medicine, and Dr. Jennifer Stewart, a pioneer in equine nutrition and performance health.
This program blends cutting-edge science with practical application, equipping you to deliver exceptional care and elevate outcomes for every horse under your care.