Who is Doc Thornley?

In 1855, Robert Thornley immigrated to the United States and became one of the first veterinarians in what was the Utah Territory. Back then, vets got most of their training and experience on the farm. Doc Thornley was no different. He gained his animal husbandry skills as a young man in England, first as a farm hand and eventually as the "head cowman" for an entire herd of cows owned by one of the rich farmers near his home town. He brought this experience with him to his new home in the great American west and quickly became the town vet, where he was known for his common sense approach to animal care.

Today, Doc Thornley represents the common sense information and advice that we all need as horse owners. Not only is his legacy carried on by several of his descendants who are practicing equine vets today, but by many equine professionals around the world, including veterinarians, nutritionists, trainers, farriers, clinicians and others.
​
For this new column, we will provide advice, tips, solutions, best practices and answers to common questions for horses and their owners, focusing on common sense and simplicity. So watch each month for "Ask Doc Thornley". We hope he will inspire you to learn and grow in all aspects of responsible and enjoyable horse ownership.

---