One of Australia's best known equine vets Reg Pascoe has died aged 88.

Pascoe is credited with saving the careers of thousands of racehorses during his 65 years of practice mainly at Oakey on Queensland's Darling Downs.

He was one of the first graduates of the University of Queensland Vet School in 1951 and completed his fellowship with the Royal College London (1973), Australian College of Vet Scientists (1975) and he gained his Doctorate in Vet Science in 1984.

Pascoe established a mixed practice which was later to become the Oakey Veterinary Hospital.

Pascoe was appointed Adjunct Professor in the School of Veterinary Science and Animal Production at the University of Queensland in 1998 and has been described as one of Australia's most eminent equine specialists.

Veteran Queensland trainer Pat Duff said Pascoe was a legend among the state's racing community.

"I would hate to think of the number of horses who had successful careers thanks to Reg's skill and dedication." Duff said.

Pascoe's son, David, said there would be a private family funeral but a public memorial service would held later this year.

"The memorial service details will be finalised in coming weeks and it will give people from all over the world notice so they can attend," Pascoe said.