Troy Holder – Advanced Surgical Care for Complex Equine Cases
DVM, DACVS-LA
Troy Holder has built a remarkable career defined not only by his surgical expertise but also by his commitment to mentorship, advocacy, and improving the culture of veterinary medicine.
A board-certified large animal surgeon and Clinical Assistant Professor of Large Animal Surgery at the Virginia–Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Holder stands out as both a gifted clinician and a passionate advocate for mental health, diversity, and belonging within the profession.
From Barbados to the Global Veterinary Stage
Born and raised on the Caribbean island of Barbados, Troy Holder’s journey into veterinary medicine began at the University of the West Indies, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1998. His early academic years reflected not only his intellectual drive but also a dedication to leadership and community, serving as class president and excelling in athletics.
Troy went on to pursue advanced training across North America, completing an equine surgery internship at London Equine Hospital in Ontario, Canada, followed by a rotating internship in large animal medicine and surgery at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine.
He remained at Tennessee to complete a rigorous residency in large animal surgery, which set the foundation for a career that has spanned private practice, academia, and clinical leadership.
Academic and Clinical Excellence
Troy Holder’s professional path has been deeply rooted in teaching and clinical innovation. He has served on the faculties of Kansas State University, Midwestern University, and most recently, Oregon State University’s Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, where he worked from 2016 to 2023 as a Clinical Assistant Professor.
In addition to academia, he has practiced as an equine surgeon in private referral hospitals in both Oregon and Texas, gaining broad expertise across equine, food-producing animals, and camelids. In August 2023, he joined the Virginia–Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, where his role extends beyond the operating room.
He teaches fourth-year veterinary students in equine services, mentors future veterinarians, and continues to advance clinical care in areas such as gastrointestinal surgery, critical care, endotoxemia management, and the use of prosthetics in small ruminants and pigs, all of which are included in the equine veterinary CPD program designed for practicing equine veterinarians
Championing Mental Health and Representation
While Troy Holder’s technical skills as a surgeon are well recognised, his impact reaches far beyond the clinic. As one of only two board-certified large animal surgeons of African descent, he is acutely aware of the need for greater diversity and inclusion in veterinary medicine.
His decision to join Virginia Tech was influenced by the institution’s genuine commitment to improving representation and belonging for underrepresented minorities in the profession.
Equally important is his advocacy for mental health awareness within veterinary medicine. Having grown up with a father who was bipolar and navigating his own mental health challenges, Troy Holder speaks openly about the importance of addressing the high rates of stress and burnout in the profession. His candor and leadership have made him a relatable and inspiring voice for colleagues and students alike.
Redefining Success and Identity
For Troy Holder, becoming a father in 2013 reshaped his perspective on life and career. No longer defining himself solely as a surgeon, he embraced a broader vision of success: one centered on being a present parent, a decent human being, and a positive force in the world. His guiding philosophy is rooted in gratitude and giving back:
“This is a gift that has been given to me. I want to do whatever I can to help others achieve their goals and improve their lives. It’s about making a difference and putting good energy into the world.”
Life Beyond the Operating Room
Though dedicated to his professional mission, Troy Holder balances his demanding career with a fulfilling home life. He shares his days with his daughter and three dogs, a blue heeler, a rat terrier, and a bernedoodle, who followed the family in their recent move to Blacksburg, Virginia.
He has embraced his new community, appreciating both its diversity and its vibrancy compared to past academic homes.
Why Troy Holder Matters
Troy Holder’s story is more than one of professional achievement; it is one of resilience, advocacy, and leadership. As a surgeon, he brings exceptional skill to the operating room. As a teacher, he equips future veterinarians with both knowledge and compassion.
And as a person, he uses his platform to foster mental health awareness, champion diversity, and inspire others to find balance and purpose.
In a field facing significant challenges with workforce sustainability, representation, and wellness, Troy Holder is not only a healer of animals but also a changemaker for the profession itself.
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