Dr. Felipe Maciel is an equine veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience specializing in equine surgery, sports medicine, lameness, and advanced diagnostics. Originally from Brazil, he is passionate about combining advanced technology with individualized patient care to help horses perform at their best and recover from injury.
After earning his veterinary degree in Brazil, Dr. Maciel completed an internship at Brazos Valley Equine Hospital, where he trained under Dr. Jay R. Bickers. That mentorship played a significant role in shaping his approach to equine medicine and surgery, emphasizing thoughtful diagnostics, attention to detail, and a commitment to continual learning.
Dr. Maciel has a particular interest in advanced diagnostic imaging and cervical surgery. He enjoys the challenge of solving complex cases and believes that every horse deserves a comprehensive, holistic evaluation. By treating each patient as an individual, he develops tailored treatment plans that account for the unique circumstances of every horse and owner.
Although he did not grow up riding horses, Dr. Maciel has developed a deep appreciation for their remarkable resilience and the many ways they enrich people’s lives—from elite athletic performance to therapeutic partnerships. He finds fulfillment in helping horses stay healthy, comfortable, and capable of doing what they love.
When asked about the most memorable moments in his career, Dr. Maciel says that while saving catastrophic cases is incredibly rewarding, it is the opportunity to learn from every patient that makes equine medicine so meaningful. He believes each case offers something new and continues to fuel his passion for the profession.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Maciel enjoys spending time in the mountains and the outdoors, which is one of the reasons he was drawn to South Valley Equine. Colleagues describe him as happy, dedicated, and caring, and his advice to horse owners is simple: “Stick to the process.”