Brad Buckley was born in Killeen, Texas. He graduated from Ellison High School in 1985. He earned a bachelor's degree in veterinary science from Texas A&M University in 1989 and a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University in 1993. Buckley's career experience includes working as a partner in Killeen Veterinary Clinic, Town and Country Veterinary Medical Center, and Stagecoach Pet Hospital. He was elected to serve as a board member of the Killeen Independent School District.