Bio
Dr. Rappleyea had been on track to apply to human medical school, but decided, somewhat last minute, that it wasn’t something she wanted to pursue. That summer, her horse sustained a soft tissue injury that required about 6 months of treatment and rehabilitation. It was then that she realized she could combine her love for science with her love for animals in veterinary medicine!
She studied at the University Massachusetts-Amherst and has 3 degrees from this institution: a BS in Biology, a BS in Psychology, and an MS in Neuroscience and Behavior. She then graduated from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2018.
Before joining the team at WAHPR, she practiced in 3 other states. Fresh out of school, she did a rotating internship in equine surgery, medicine, rehabilitation, and general practice at BW Furlong & Associates in New Jersey and Florida. She also worked for a mixed large animal practice that served Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
In her work as a vet, Dr. Rappleyea takes a special interest in diagnosing and treating lameness and orthopedic issues, and in the treatment and support of our geriatric pets.
Additionally, she specializes in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). She studied at the Chi Institute in Florida, focusing on veterinary acupuncture and herbal therapy.
In her personal time, Dr. Rappleyea likes to spend as much time as possible outdoors. She rides horses, road bikes, hikes, kayaks, runs, and gardens.
She has 2 rescues – a Great Pyrenees mix named Gus and a Siamese cat mix named Biscuit. She also has a horse, Moose, who she showed in Jumpers and Equitation. She even has a small flock of Bantam chickens!