Dr. Rachel Doenges moved with her family many times around the country as a child, but eventually settled in Colorado Springs, Colorado, which she considers her hometown. During these transitions, one thing remained constant, her love for horses. Dr. Doenges rode and showed hunter jumpers throughout childhood. After high school, she attended the University of Mississippi to study Mandarin Chinese and International Studies; this gave her the opportunity to study in China several times.

After receiving her undergraduate degree, Dr. Doenges remained in Oxford, Mississippi and began working at a local small animal veterinary clinic as a technician, eventually becoming a manager. While working at this clinic, she realized her dream of becoming a veterinarian, and returned to the University of Mississippi for prerequisite courses. During this time, she continued to own and show horses. Unfortunately, her favorite mare sustained a career-ending injury and was retired as a broodmare. This experience was Dr. Doenges’ introduction to reproduction and she acquired a passion for breeding.

Dr. Doenges attended Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. During veterinary school she developed a special interest in theriogenology. Nurtured by the clinicians in the theriogenology department, Dr. Doenges was encouraged to get involved in the Society for Theriogenology. After graduation she accepted an ambulatory internship position at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital with Dr. Brad Tanner. Her internship focused on thoroughbred broodmare management, foal medicine and dentistry. Her internship solidified her interest in reproduction and cultivated a love of Kentucky’s equestrian culture. 

Dr. Doenges was offered a theriogenology residency opportunity with Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital. During her residency, she has continued to work with thoroughbred breeders, gained experience in advanced reproductive techniques and stallion management. She has particular interest in fetal monitoring and working up cases of subfertility. In her spare time, she enjoys riding, developing two of her homebred horses, and cooking together and gardening  with her husband.