Intern Veterinarian
Dr. Helinger is originally from St. Petersburg, Florida. She earned her B.S. in Animal Science from the University of Florida in 2010. She went on to graduate school, studying Equine Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, and earned her M.S. in 2011. Following grad school, Dr. Helinger went to work for a board-certified equine veterinarian, traveling all over the state of Florida to treat horses. In 2016, Dr. Helinger took a job in sales and advertising. She missed the veterinary profession every day, and it was not long before she went back to school. A triple Gator, Dr. Helinger received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2023, and began her internship at Ocala Equine Hospital shortly thereafter. Her professional interests include lameness, sports medicine and rehabilitation, endocrinology, and preventative medicine. Horses have always been Dr. Helinger’s passion. She grew up training and competing in three-day-eventing and dressage. Dr. Helinger can still be found at the barn most nights caring for her equine partner of 20 years, Lola. When not next to a horse, Dr. Helinger enjoys working out, outdoor activities, and is an avid runner.
Memberships and Affiliations:
American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)
Florida Association of Equine Practitioners (FAEP)
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
International Society of Equine Locomotor Pathology (ISELP)
United States Equestrian Federation (USEF)