Celebrating Journeys and Joys in Veterinary Care ??
Lily Chen, DVM, CVA, CAAS
Owner / Veterinarian at Integrative Pet Wellness Center Specializing in Traditional and Holistic Pet Care in California and Nationwide.
Dear Friends, ??
Last Saturday, my Instagram was awash with love and celebration for World Veterinary Day. As I scrolled through the vibrant posts, I found myself drawn into quiet reflection on my own 17-year journey through the veterinary world. It feels like only yesterday when I began at 18 as a veterinary technician, and even as a child, I couldn't imagine a career outside of caring for animals. This has always been my calling.
In creating a small video montage of my journey from a conventional veterinarian to a holistic house call practitioner and now leading a fully integrative practice, I was struck by the evolution of not only my career but also the nature of the cases I've handled. From urgent and complex cases in a medicine/surgery specialty hospital to everyday challenges in general practice (lots of vaccines, spays/neuters, medicines and injections)—and finally to managing chronic conditions with a holistic approach, my career has been a fascinating ride.
One of the most pivotal aspects of my journey has been the integration of holistic medicine into my practice. In recent years, the rise of?second opinion cases?has particularly underscored the importance of having options. Many families come to us after being told there are no more options left in conventional care, seeking alternative paths that go beyond the typical. This intersection of conventional and holistic practices has highlighted a critical lesson: it's not about choosing sides but about choosing what's best for our patients.
The beauty of seeking a second opinion lies in the fresh perspectives it brings. In veterinary care, as in life, there are often multiple paths to wellness. Discussing the pros and cons of different approaches allows us to tailor our care to the unique needs of each pet and their family. It's about collaboration, not confrontation. In fact, I also welcome and encourage any of my current clients to seek second opinions.? ?
The Value of Second Opinion Consults
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Embracing an integrative approach doesn't mean abandoning the science we trust but rather enhancing it with compassionate, holistic methods that address the root causes of illness. The outcomes can be extraordinary, reminding us that, ultimately, we're all on the same team—united by our love for animals and driven by our commitment to their well-being.
As I continue to learn and grow in this field, I am ever more convinced that the journey of veterinary medicine is one of endless discovery. The road ahead is full of promise, and I am grateful to share this path with each of you.
Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, let's continue to explore, learn, and care—for the love of pets and the people who love them.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Lily Chen ???????
P.S. I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences about holistic approaches or any part of your pet's health journey. Let's keep the conversation going!
If you would like to follow me, my Instagram handle is @dr.lilychen
Agent with New York Life
10 个月Dr. Chen, Thank you for this post. I am such a beleiver in combining western and eastern medical practices for the good of both humans and animals. You're right that there is no need for a separation. I have had seven rescue cats over the years, and employed various methods of caring for them. My one little one, a girl named Helena was diagnosed at 15 with the all too common CRF syndrome. She was given about six months to remain with me. I began immediately to work with a homeopathic ex-vet tech who had assiduously studied alternative medicine for years. We worked with homeopathic pellets, liquid herbal remedies, vitamin injections, and--my favorite--an oral liquid called "Tinkle Tonic". Helena's BUN and Creatinine numbers stabilized, and although her condition would vary regularly, she lived another two years with me, happy and comfortable unitl her last two days, when she made it clear to me that she was ready to cross the bridge, which I helped her to do. I remember a western vet telling me once, after her blood work was checked "I don't know exactly what you're doing, but keep doing it". Love to you.