Love of animals came naturally for McSwain

Dr. Terra McSwain, who recently joined the veterinary team at Broken Top Veterinarian Clinic, was raised on a farm in rural North Carolina.

When kids grow up on a farm, they learn the responsibility of caring for animals. They discover how to understand and feel compassion toward animals that can’t communicate their feelings.

“I was always rescuing animals of all kinds,” McSwain said. “My love of animals came naturally, and their well-being was always of utmost importance to me.”

Being an advocate or voice for an animal is a humbling field of work for the new veterinarian. She understands the close connections people have with their animal companions.

She added, “The ability to work with both animals and people appealed to me since I am passionate about client education and lasting relationships. It’s challenging to say the least, but I feel that I have the best job in the world”.

McSwain earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from East Carolina University in 2011. She then went on to obtain her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ross University.

McSwain and her husband, Mike, also a veterinarian, moved to Central Oregon two years ago from Florida, where she practiced emergency medicine for three years.

“Mike and I met in veterinary school in St. Kitts in the West Indies where we quickly realized we had the same adventurous spirit and goals, she said. “I was nervous about a move across the country but quickly realized it was where we were meant to be as the Central Oregon lifestyle fulfills our need for outdoor adventure and exploration.”

McSwain knew they would make the permanent move to Central Oregon one day since Mike was born and raised in Terrebonne, where his father practices veterinary medicine.

“We sensed that Mike would come home to practice alongside his father. We are all very passionate about veterinary medicine within a community where we can build long-lasting relationships by keeping it local.”

She aims to further build a trusting relationship with clients and their pets within the community.

“I practice veterinary medicine as if each client and their pet is a part of my family. I’m excited to work alongside Dr. Lodge and Dr. Liedblad as they have welcomed me into such an inviting clinic with the most awesome staff,” she said.

Broken Top Veterinary Clinic’s office manager, Jenny, spoke for the staff:

“Dr. McSwain joined our team at the beginning of August and we are excited to have her in our growing family. She is bringing her love of veterinary medicine, client education, and service to the community and we would be thrilled to have you share and experience what she is bringing to our clinic and beautiful Broken Top community!”

The McSwains have two dogs, one cat, and a farm full of an assortment of animals — all of which are rescues.

Some of her interests include, internal medicine, dentistry, nutrition, and emergency & critical care. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Oregon Veterinarian Medical Association.