Veterinarians who are also team ropers often find common ground in their professions, merging the demands of animal care with their passion for roping. Many have carved out successful careers while managing their love for the sport, scheduling their practices around veterinary emergencies.

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A recent inquiry on Facebook revealed a strong community of vet-ropers, generating over 800 comments. While many veterinarians were mentioned, only a handful could be interviewed, highlighting a significant number of veterinarians actively involved in both treating horses and team roping.

**Windsor, Colorado**

**Joe Stricklin, DVM**

Stricklin, a graduate of Texas A&M University in 1980, originally built a surgical practice in Abilene, Texas. After relocating to Colorado in 2007, he has focused on lameness and dentistry. Stricklin's journey into veterinary medicine began as a child caring for his family’s livestock and observing a veterinarian work on his horses. Although he previously struggled to find time for roping due to emergencies, Stricklin now prioritizes his passion and makes time for competition.

Stricklin notes that while he doesn’t work weekends unless necessary, he is quick to respond in emergencies during events. He believes being a roper enhances his veterinary practice, as it deepens his understanding of equine health and fosters connections with clients.

**Gill, Colorado**

**Wendy Gaddis, DVM**

Gaddis, who graduated from Colorado State University in 2000, grew up on a ranch and returned to team roping after years in practice. Her journey started when a horse she purchased proved to have serious health issues, solidifying her desire to become a veterinarian. Now she balances her practice with roping after work and on weekends, emphasizing the importance of proper horse care in the sport and observing improvements among ropers over time.

**West Haven, Utah**

**David Moss, DVM**

Moss, a 1992 Colorado State University graduate, entered veterinary medicine against his father's wishes, who was in construction. He began team roping at 40 after buying a horse for his child. He has since built a roping arena at his clinic and manages his schedule to participate in both vet work and roping during the week and winter months, with occasional frustrations about clients seeking advice during competitions.

**Midland, Texas**

**Bobby Boyd, DVM**

Boyd, who practiced in Midland for 40 years and graduated from Texas A&M in 1976, reflects on his early desire to be a veterinarian, which was sparked by a childhood experience with a sick dog. Although his early career kept him from roping, he eventually took it up later in life and cherishes the learning opportunities it presents. At events, he often helps fellow competitors with veterinary advice, emphasizing the importance of health and preparation in the sport. Now at 74, Boyd remains active in roping, maintaining a rigorous physical regimen to stay competitive.

With plans for a follow-up feature, this article reveals how numerous veterinarians integrate their medical expertise with their love for team roping, enhancing both their professions and the well-being of the horses they care for.