My Story
As a veterinarian, I’ve had the privilege of caring for countless dogs and the families who love them. Along the way, I’ve seen the challenges of chronic and recurring health issues, long-term medications, rising costs, and limited nutritional guidance.
After a decade of practice, I found myself much more drawn to PREVENTING illness and disease from developing or worsening. While genetics and chance do play a role, I believe there is so much we can do to support the body’s FOUNDATIONS, strengthen RESILIENCE, and restore BALANCE when life brings challenges.
Through my own experiences and those of my dogs, I’ve learned how much our daily choices matter. Processed foods, environmental toxins, weight and mobility challenges, and mental stress, among other common factors, can all add up.
Awareness is step one. Recognizing that we have choices is step two. Taking ACTION is step three.
Living this holistic life has helped build a strong foundation for my family and me. When life happens, we are better prepared to meet its challenges and recognize when it’s time to rest and rejuvenate.
My mission is to EMPOWER pet parents with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make informed choices for their dog’s health.
I want to help your dog THRIVE, not just survive.
With love,
Dr. Shirley
Dr. Shirley is a coastal California girl loving life in Santa Cruz. Aside from being a holistic pet coach and veterinarian, Shirley is passionate about rock climbing, surfing, yoga, dance, cooking, farmer’s markets, and constantly learning in the health and wellness space for both people and animals. She loves living in the quiet forest with the redwoods along with her husband and two chucklehead dogs, Mowgli and Jaeger. She loves quality time with her family, friends and contributing to her community. She has a special place in her heart for primates and one of her dreams is working with monkeys in the tropics.
Degrees and certifications:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, St. George’s University, 2014
Certified Professional Canine Nutrition, Feed Real, 2025
Veterinary Microbiome Certification, NAVC, 2025
Certified Holistic Pet Health Coach, Dr. Ruth Roberts, 2026