2026 SBA North Carolina Rural Small Business of the Year: Doc Terra Mobile Veterinary Services

A veterinarian mobile truck servicing pets on the go

Dr. Terra Smith is a North Carolina trained veterinarian and military spouse whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to hard work, service, and professional excellence. Raised on a small horse farm in Lincoln County, North Carolina, she developed an early understanding of responsibility, discipline, and the realities of agricultural life.

DocTerra Mobile Veterinary Services is a fully equipped mobile veterinary practice providing high-quality care for pets of all sizes, including small animals, horses, and farm animals. Operating three mobile units, including one full-service clinic with a surgical suite, DocTerra Mobile delivers preventive care, wellness exams, vaccinations, deworming, and natural therapies directly to clients’ homes or farms within a 40-mile radius of Vale NC.

The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at Fayetteville State provided critical guidance in business planning and financials, enabling Dr. Terra to secure a $75,500 loan that was instrumental in launching her veterinary practice. In 2020, Dr. Terra was featured in an SBA national spotlight video, highlighting her work as a veterinarian. Sarah Espinosa of the VBOC nominated DocTerra for this award.

The SBA North Carolina District Office is pleased to honor DocTerra Mobile Veterinary Services as its 2026 Rural Small Business of the Year. DocTerra was nominated by Sarah Espinosa of the Veterans Business Outreach Center.

This article does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the SBA of any opinions, products, or services of any private individual or entity.