Dr Sarah Colmer
VMD DACVIM
When it comes to advancing the frontiers of equine internal medicine and neurology, few voices are emerging as clearly and powerfully as that of Dr. Sarah Colmer, VMD, DACVIM.
A respected large animal internist and current Fellow in Large Animal Neurology at the University of Pennsylvania’s prestigious New Bolton Center, Dr. Colmer is not just making waves, she’s redefining what excellence looks like in veterinary science, clinical education, and equine care.
From Molecular Biology to Medical Breakthroughs
Dr. Colmer’s journey into veterinary medicine was rooted in a strong scientific foundation. She graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Drew University, where she also captained the university’s equestrian team and conducted award-winning undergraduate research on genetic expression in yeast.
Her passion for animals and science seamlessly converged when she earned her VMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating on the Dean’s List each year from 2013 to 2017.
But it was her time at Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center, a hub for excellence in large animal medicine, where Dr. Colmer began carving out a niche that blends clinical expertise, research rigor, and a heartfelt dedication to teaching.
Specializing in Equine Neurology and Internal Medicine
After completing dual rotating internships at Mid-Atlantic Equine Medical Center and New Bolton Center, Dr. Colmer pursued a three-year residency in Large Animal Internal Medicine, which she completed in 2022.
Dr. Sarah’s clinical acumen, coupled with a passion for complex cases, led her to a specialized fellowship in Large Animal Neurology at New Bolton Center, where she also collaborates with the Matthew J. Ryan Hospital for Small Animals.
Her research focuses on neurologic and degenerative diseases in horses, with a secondary interest in endocrinology. From equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) to cervical vertebral malformations, Dr. Colmer is tackling some of the most challenging conditions in equine health, both in the clinic and at the bench.
A Natural Educator and Advocate for Veterinary Learning
What truly sets Dr. Sarah Colmer apart, however, is her deep commitment to education. Named the recipient of the William B. Boucher Award for Outstanding Teaching, an honor voted on by graduating students, Dr. Colmer has become known for her clarity, approachability, and infectious enthusiasm in the teaching hospital.
Whether she’s helping students remember the cranial nerves with creative mnemonics or breaking down a complex neurologic exam, her dedication to mentorship is unmistakable.
“Students gravitate toward Dr. Sarah because she radiates patience, kindness, and true passion for education,” says Dr. Amy Johnson, a leading faculty member at the New Bolton Center. “She inspires everyone around her to learn and makes NBC a better, happier place every day she is there.”
A Voice in the Veterinary Community
As a speaker, Dr. Colmer delivers high-impact, clinically relevant presentations that resonate with both veterinary professionals and horse owners. Her lectures like “Why the Long Face? A Refresher on the Equine Neurologic Exam” and “A Pain in the Neck: Equine Neck Abnormalities” are as memorable as they are informative.
She is a sought-after contributor to podcasts, live forums, and veterinary conferences, where she bridges cutting-edge science with practical, compassionate care.
Why Dr. Sarah Colmer Matters
In an era where veterinary medicine faces increasing challenges and rapid scientific advancement, Dr. Sarah Colmer stands out as a beacon of knowledge, empathy, and innovation.
Her ability to translate complex neurologic concepts into meaningful insights, her unwavering commitment to her patients and students, and her growing body of research make her one of the most compelling voices in equine medicine today.
For veterinary professionals looking to deepen their expertise, for students seeking an inspiring mentor, and for organizations wanting a dynamic, evidence-based speaker, Dr. Sarah Colmer is a name to know, and a leader to follow.