Katherine (Katie) Garrett, DVM, DACVS, shareholder and director of diagnostic imaging at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., was installed as president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners during the President’s Luncheon on Dec. 2 at the AAEP’s 69th Annual Convention in San Diego, Calif. 

A 2003 graduate of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Garrett completed a pair of internships at Rood & Riddle before remaining with the practice as an associate focused on Thoroughbred sales work. Her focus expanded to include diagnostic imaging and, following a three-year equine surgery residency at the practice and attainment of board certification in the American College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2012, Dr. Garrett was appointed director of diagnostic imaging. She has particular interest in musculoskeletal MRI and upper airway imaging. Dr. Garrett became a shareholder of the practice in 2018.  

“It is an honor to serve as AAEP president alongside so many talented and committed volunteer leaders,” said Dr. Garrett. “I look forward to continuing our work on behalf of the membership and the horse.” 

An AAEP member since 2003, Dr. Garrett served on the board of directors from 2015–2017, chaired both the Educational Programs Committee and Member Engagement Committee, and served as program chair of the AAEP’s 2011 Resort Symposium continuing education meeting. In addition, she co-anchored the popular Kester News Hour session at the AAEP’s Annual Convention from 2019–2021.  

Dr. Garrett has authored multiple textbook chapters and peer-reviewed journal articles, and she frequently speaks at national and international veterinary conferences. 

About AAEP 

The American Association of Equine Practitioners, headquartered in Lexington, Ky., was founded in 1954 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of the horse. Currently, AAEP reaches more than 5 million horse owners through its over 9,000 members worldwide and is actively involved in ethics issues, practice management, research and continuing education in the equine veterinary profession and horse industry.