Who We Are
Ocean Hill Equine Medical Group is a progressive, multifaceted, ambulatory practice, providing state-of-the-art equine veterinary healthcare in southern California. We pride ourselves on developing and maintaining strong and collaborative relationships with our clients and their equine athletes and companions. Our team of dedicated veterinarians and staff are equipped to utilize the industry’s latest field diagnostics and treatment options to support your horse’s health and ability to compete.
Our Veterinarians
Partners
Dr. Matt Leshaw is a Southern California native. He attended UC San Diego for his undergraduate studies to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Structural Engineering. He worked as an engineer in the aerospace industry for 2 years before deciding to pursue a career in equine veterinary medicine.
Dr. Leshaw went on to earn his DVM from UC Davis. Subsequently, Dr. Leshaw completed an internship at an equine referral hospital in Colorado and went on to work under the tutelage of renowned lameness expert Dr. Duncan Peters at East-West Equine Sports Medicine, based in Lexington, KY. During his time with East-West Dr. Leshaw worked as an official horse show veterinarian for HITS Coachella Desert Circuit and HITS National Sunshine Series in Thermal, CA, and The Great Lakes Equestrian Festival in Traverse City, MI.
Dr. Leshaw is an FEI treating veterinarian and has served as an official vet at the Land Rover Kentucky 3 Day Event and Split Rock Kentucky Invitational CSI 3*. Dr. Leshaw served as the team veterinarian for the US Eventing Team in Aachen, Germany during the 2018 World Equestrian Festival.
Dr. Leshaw is a member of the International Society of Equine Locomotor Pathology and is working toward official certification. Dr. Leshaw enjoys all aspects of equine veterinary medicine, but has a strong interest in diagnosing and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries in the equine athlete.
Dr. Tad Bender was born and raised in Fallbrook, California. Growing up, he was heavily involved in the agricultural and livestock community of San Diego.
Dr. Bender received a Bachelor of Science degree from Cal Poly Pomona, followed by a Master’s and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees in 2007 from UC Davis, with an emphasis on equine medicine.
Following graduation from veterinary school, Dr. Bender joined Creekside Veterinary Service. Throughout his tenure, he developed clinical knowledge of numerous equestrian disciplines. He prides himself on being a multifaceted veterinarian with varied interests. While he enjoys all aspects of equine veterinary work, he has extensive experience in equine reproduction and a special interest in sport horse medicine.
In 2023, Dr. Bender partnered with Dr. Matt Leshaw and formed Ocean Hill Equine Medical Group. He is excited to continue providing services to the greater San Diego equestrian community.
When not working, Dr. Bender cherishes time with his wife Grace and their two children and giving back to the community as a highly involved figure within the local 4H and FFA organizations.
Associates
Dr. Marc McCaughan is a Southern California native, who grew up in Los Angeles County. His passion for animals and nature began while growing up around his family’s small avocado and citrus orchard. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of California, Irvine. He later went on to receive his DVM from the University of Prince Edward Island, Atlantic Veterinary College. During his studies, he held student office in the American Association of Equine Practitioners at AVC, and, was on the veterinary team for the Pan American Equestrian games in Toronto.
After graduation, he accepted a one-year internship and worked an additional two years for Baker Equine Medical, one of the top thoroughbred racetrack practices in the nation, based in Los Alamitos, California. He worked with renowned surgeons and clinicians in the racing industry. This experience furthered his passion for providing equine athletes with exceptional medical care. After leaving the track, Dr. McCaughan practiced in South Orange County. His clinical skills in lameness and sports medicine were utilized in the care of the equestrian show and western horse athletes.
He enjoys the outdoors, boating, and riding horses, and motorcycles. He especially enjoys spending time around family and friends. He is also active in his church and other community groups. Dr. McCaughan is excited to be an associate vet at Ocean Hill Equine.