Dr. Stephanie Tunay completed her veterinary internship at Fredericksburg Equine Veterinary Services in 2019. She was born and raised in Guatemala (known as “Eterna primavera”, translated “Eternal spring”). Dr. Stephanie grew up in an urban area but was always interested in animals. As a young girl, she would try to hug all her grandmother’s chickens; and as she grew up, she began to dream of “living in a small town and riding horses off into the sunset.” She came to realize her heart was in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Stephanie credits her wonderful Christian parents with helping her realize her dreams. They always supported her; and she gratefully says, “Although they lived in poverty, they gave me the best gift: education.” With their encouragement, she was able to graduate from vet school at Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala.

During vet school in Guatemala, Dr. Stephanie decided to focus on equine medicine. She enjoyed working with horses and became fascinated by their complicated anatomy. After graduating from vet school in 2016, Dr. Stephanie began working with horses in poor Guatemalan communities. Her work gave her insight to the needs and roles of horses in these areas. Dr. Stephanie says, “Working in the poor communities made me love my career even more because I found the perfect match!…to work with horses (my passion!) and help the people of my country!”

Dr. Franklin met Dr. Stephanie while he was volunteering with a veterinary group in Guatemala. He was impressed by the ambitious young veterinarian and offered her the opportunity to learn more about equine medicine as an intern at Fredericksburg Equine Veterinary Services. Dr. Stephanie thanks Dr. Franklin and Dr. Moskosky “for being incredible mentors. In addition to vet skills, they have taught me to work with a team and to be confident in myself.”

In January 2020, Dr. Stephanie returned to Guatemala to continue pursuing her passion for helping the horses and people there. She plans to continue educational opportunities and has a strong interest in equine surgery and equine neonatal medicine.