44 SIDELINES DECEMBER 2012
FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE
What was it like writing your book, “Understanding
Lameness,” published in 2009 by Western Horseman.
I worked with Western Horseman for about a year. We would
meet every Tuesday evening after work and work together on this
book. It was a challenge for me to take technical information and
make it exciting and understandable for the layman. I didn’t want
it to be a textbook. I have always felt that it would be benefcial
to my clients to have a book to refer to, after they left the clinic
with their horse and their horse’s diagnosis. My goal was to have
a reference tool for owners, so they could understand what they
were told at the clinic.
What’s one thing you try to impress upon the interns at the
Littleton Equine Clinic?
I try and explain to them that each owner has a horse that means
a great deal to them and that the owner wants their horse to do a
certain job. Our job, as veterinarians, is to help these owners and
riders be able to achieve their goals and maintain the welfare and
respect of their horses.
You are an avid roper, what do you like about it?
I love to compete in team roping and jackpots in Wyoming,
Texas, Nebraska and Oklahoma. I usually rope about two times
a week. It’s especially fun to try and qualify for the Senior AQHA
world championships in Amarillo, Texas. I haven’t won - but,
I haven’t given up yet! I love the challenge - trying to do the
discipline as accurately as possible. It is a challenge to get the
horse to work for you!
Tell us about your great collection of Western buckles you
have won.
Well, I do have some buckles. And, it was wonderful winning the
Amateur Circuit Champion this year at the stock show. It is very
exciting for me to be able to ride and compete. I love the challenge
and so do my horses. And, the buckles are fun too!
Do you have a favorite breed or discipline?
I have always loved Quarter Horses and grew up with them. I
especially love seeing the kids ride at the rodeos. But, there are
good horses in all of the disciplines and I appreciate all of the
breeds and all of the different disciplines.
How many horses do you have at home?
Now, that’s a personal question! We have seven Quarter Horses
and my granddaughter Quincy Rose also has her pony Blackie!
Dr. Terry Swanson
Photo courtesy of David R. Stoecklein and Platinum Performance.
Dr. Swanson with his
granddaughter Quincy
Rose aboard Paddycakes,
her frst pony.
Photo courtesy of Dr. Terry
Swanson
A painting of Dr. Swanson, painted by his son, Roy Dean
Swanson.
Photo courtesy of Dr. Terry Swanson
Dr. Terry Swanson’s book,
“Understanding Lameness”
Courtesy of Heidi Nyland
Would you ever consider retiring?
No, I don’t think so. I really enjoy the people I work with and the
horses. Horses and people can do wonderful things for your ego
and your heart!
What is your favorite place you have traveled to?
Maybe Holland or Germany, I have been there for the horses. But,
I love Colorado - who would want to travel, when we live here?
What words of wisdom can you share about life as a
veterinarian?
Being a veterinarian is a “dynamic profession.” There is no end
to the knowledge – and it helps us old dogs keep on kicking!