Barbara first became interested in homeopathy when her daughter suffered eczema as a baby, and after seeing dramatic improvements in the condition, also began considering alternative therapies in her profession as a veterinary surgeon. She joined the British Association of Homoeopathic Veterinary Surgeons (BAHVS) in 1987 where she learnt about homoeopathy and many other holistic therapies, and proceeded to take the only recognised veterinary qualification in homoeopathy in the UK - Vet MFHom., which she passed in 1992.

After a couple of years of seeing homeopathic referrals in her spare time, by 1994 she had opened her own practice so that she could incorporate the best parts of conventional medicine and surgery into an holistic approach to patients. Shortly before the practice opened, she also took an introductory course in acupuncture and over the last few years has deepened her knowledge in both this and Traditional Chinese Medicine by taking part in the first UK course run under the guidance of the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, which led to an international certification in this field.

Through the years she has also gained knowledge of other forms of holistic therapies such as Reiki, herbalism and nutritional supplements which she uses in the overall therapy where appropriate. Being open to the use of alternative treatments often reduces the amount of any drugs that need to be prescribed, thereby reducing the risks of toxic side effects. It also allows her to offer treatments where there is nothing to offer conventionally.

Website: www.vetholistic.co.uk

Email: oakwoodvets@farmline.com

Telephone: +44 (0) 1691 679699

Address: Oakwood Veterinary Centre, Babbinswood Farm, Whittington, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 4PF