Why OAES?
our commitment to excellence
Our Mission
The Online Academy of Equine Science (OAES) is an education company dedicated to developing evidence-based courses for anyone interested in all aspects of health and welfare of the horse. Our course modules are developed by veterinarians and specialists, who emphasize our established standards of evidence-based education and practical clinical experience.
Our Story
Dr. Carrie Schlachter, Dr. Nicole Rombach and Debranne Pattillo, Directors of OAES, have combined their years of experience in the equine education industry, in academia, and in the clinical field, to develop evidence-based courses with a strong focus on practical application.
The directors understand that today’s horse owners, riders, trainers, and equine professionals are inquisitive about the horse’s performance and welfare, and they are keen to find quality, evidence-based information – they want to learn more!
Our Philosophy
Knowledge must be shared!
We are proud to contribute science-based information to guide those with a passion for horses into enhanced understanding of their athlete and best friend!
Meet the Team
Dr. Nicole Rombach
Partner / APM, MEEBW, CCBW, PG AM, MSc., PhD
Dr. Rombach has a full equine and canine sports therapy practice, and also regularly lectures at various universities and for professional associations, presenting evidence-based courses on equine and canine spinal dysfunction with an emphasis on neuromuscular rehabilitation techniques.
Debranne Pattillo
Partner / (hon)MSc., MEEBW
Debranne sees equine anatomy through the eyes of both a body worker and an artist. Her teaching is infused with the anatomical precision that excellent bodywork requires. She is the founder of the unique Equinology Approach To Equine Body Work, and she teaches the Equinology Equine Body Worker certification courses at locations throughout the world.
Dr. Carrie Schlachter
Partner / VMD, DACVSMR
Dr. Schlachter’s practice focuses on integrative sports medicine, rehabilitation and injury prevention. She founded and designed Circle Oak Equine’s rehabilitation and fitness programs and then set up new practice, Animals in Motion Equine focusing on developing monitoring protocols for injury prevention in the sports horse.
Dr. Schlachter achieved her board certification in equine sports medicine and rehabilitation through the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, and serves on their examination committee as well as on the American Association of Equine Practitioners Education committee.