I grew up in Orange County, CA and have loved horses all of my life. From the age of 11 years old, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
I completed my Bachelors of Science degree at the California State University, Fresno, where I competed on the equestrian team in both English and Western riding events. I learned so much from being on a riding team and it was there where I had my first exposure to the idea of equine acupuncture and chiropractic. I was a bit skeptical initially, but quickly learned how powerful and effective the modalities are.
I graduated veterinary school from the University of California, Davis in 2004 and my primary emphases were equine and poultry medicines. During an equine lameness course in my third year of veterinary school, I was reintroduced to the idea of acupuncture and manipulative therapy, at which time it became clear that this would be my eventual focus. I have dedicated myself to lifelong learning and becoming as knowledgeable and proficient in these disciplines and general wellness as possible.
My veterinary career began as an associate veterinarian working on Thoroughbred racehorses in the San Francisco Bay Area. Though I very much enjoyed working with these elite athletes, I ultimately pursued my acupuncture training at the Colorado State University’s Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians program in 2005. I subsequently completed the Animal Chiropractic program offered by Options for Animals in 2006 in Wellsville, KS. I have continued my education with additional courses offered through the Chi Institute and Options for Animals, continuing to grow and develop my practice and knowledge.
I relocated from California to Texas in November 2013 and am an avid volunteer coach for youth athletics teams, helping to develop the skills and work ethic of young boys and girls. Coaching has been incredibly rewarding for me and I really enjoy helping kids.
At this point in my veterinary career, my main focus is on biomechanics and whole body balance. My goal is to not just provide short-term relief, but to really identify and treat the underlying causes of compensatory pain. We achieve much better results when we focus less on the symptoms and more on the triggers. Proper biomechanics play a crucial role in general health and well-being, as do nutrition and a healthy immune system. Acupuncture and spinal therapies are excellent tools for addressing and maintaining these body systems.