Lisa Schaefer - Equine Dentist

Growing up “horse crazy”, I have been riding since I was old enough to sit on a horse.  As a graduate from Iowa State University, an agricultural school, I was able to take many classes in a pre-vet curriculum.  I enjoyed learning about science and its relationship with animals.

Later, I worked weekends at an equine hospital.  There, I learned the importance of medicine and the total whole horse approach: farrier, veterinarian, dentistry, chiropractic and nutrition.  Although I had always had my horses teeth done by a equine dentist/veterinarian, I did not like the power instruments, the head stand, the heavy sedation and the application of bit seats.  It just never seemed like the right thing to do for the horse.  Upon the retirement of my vet/dentist, I made it a top priority to investigate alternative dentistry. 

I was referred to a holistic dentist in my area in 2006.  I liked that he used hand instruments, the horse had his head in a natural position, very light sedation was used and the horse was very receptive and did not seem stressed at all.  A year later, I started my journey at the Advanced Whole Horse School of Dentistry. The ciriculum takes almost two years to complete, and requires twice the number of class and practicum hours then other equine dentistry schools.

Natural Balance Dentistry is an amazing paradigm.  I have seen “miracles” in the way a horse moves and behaves just by doing small adjustments to the mouth.  My patients and their owners enjoy the comfortable and relaxed dentistry experience.  No matter the breed, their age and their discipline, the results speak for themselves in improved health, performance and attitude.  I will treat your horse with patience, kindness and understanding.

Committed to Education

I share information with my clients, and believe that by educating you, the horse owner, you have the best tools and ability to ensure your horse's well being. I also enjoy teaching children and adults about the importance of equine dentistry through presentations with 4-H groups, horse clubs and symposiums.