We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dore Pei a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Dore , thanks for joining us today. We love heartwarming stories – do you have a heartwarming story from your career to share?

I once had a case with a large-breed senior dog who came to me after suddenly becoming paralyzed in his hind end. His dad was heartbroken—this dog had always been his active companion, joining him on beach walks and even early morning swims. Practically overnight, the dog went from running by his side to barely being able to walk.

After rushing him to the ER, the dad was told the only option was an MRI and possible spinal surgery, with less than a 50% chance of success. Not only was the prognosis discouraging, but the cost of advanced imaging and surgery was out of reach. He sought opinions from a few local veterinarians, but each time he was met with the same guarded outlook. By the time he came to see me, he was devastated but willing to try something different.

I created a plan that blended Western medicine, Traditional Chinese veterinary herbal therapy, and a regular schedule of acupuncture. Within just a week, the dog began regaining sensation in his paws. A couple of months later, he was walking again. It felt nothing short of miraculous.

For me, it was a powerful reminder of the depth and meaning of integrative medicine—how working with the body can address the root of illness and restore vitality in ways I had never seen in conventional practice. For the owner, it felt like a second chance with his best friend.

A year later, the dog is still doing well, and the two of them are back to enjoying their early morning beach strolls together. Helping them on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level was profoundly fulfilling, and it solidified my dedication to this path. That experience continues to inspire me, opening doors to more healing, joy, and heartwarming moments—the very reasons I chose this work in the first place.

Dore , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Dr. Dore Pei, and I’m an integrative veterinarian based in the Bay Area of California. I am the founder of WholePet Wisdom and VitalPaws Veterinary Services, and I’ve been practicing veterinary medicine for over a decade.
I began my career in conventional Western medicine, which excels at treating acute emergencies but often falls short when it comes to chronic illness, preventative health, and supporting the animal as a whole being. Over time, I saw the same gaps again and again—cases where pets were receiving care, but not always healing at the root level. That realization led me to explore integrative medicine.

I pursued advanced training and became a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) through Chi University, an herbalist with training in both Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Western herbal practices, a Veterinary Chiropractitioner, and a Level 3 Fear Free Certified Practitioner (FFCP). This journey allowed me to blend the best of both worlds—Western and holistic medicine—into a more comprehensive, compassionate approach.

I founded WholePet Wisdom to create a heart-centered, reliable resource for pet parents, animal lovers, and even veterinary professionals who want trustworthy, integrative options beyond the conventional model. It’s a space dedicated to education, empowerment, and connection, where pet wellness is simplified and made approachable. My mission is to help people feel included in their pets’ care, empowered to ask all the questions, and become confident advocates for their animals’ well-being.

My other business, VitalPaws Veterinary Services, has two arms. First, I provide relief care for veterinary hospitals in need of temporary support. Second, I offer integrative consultations for pets—dogs, cats, small mammals, exotics, and even large animals. These consultations often involve reviewing existing lab work, offering second opinions, and designing customized treatment plans that may include nutrition, herbal medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, or other modalities. I love being able to provide individualized care that blends holistic and Western approaches—it often feels like conducting a symphony where each part works in harmony to bring healing and comfort.

What sets me apart is not just my training, but my philosophy: I believe veterinary medicine can be both deeply scientific and deeply soulful. I want my work to relieve suffering, restore vitality, and strengthen the bond between pets and their people. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a once-struggling animal regain joy—and watching the relief and gratitude on their owner’s face.

I am proud to be at a point in my career where I can share this work with authenticity, wisdom, and heart. Starting my own businesses has given me the freedom to step away from corporate limitations and create something truly meaningful—something rooted in collaboration, compassion, and purpose. Every day, I’m inspired to keep growing this vision, helping more pets, and building a community that believes in whole-body wellness.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Beyond training and knowledge, I believe grit and a willingness to do the hard work are essential for success. Dreams don’t come to you on their own—no amount of wishing will make them a reality. It takes dedication, endless study, and a willingness to research every aspect of your field to truly understand where the gaps and opportunities lie.

Equally important is self-awareness: knowing your strengths and leaning into them, while staying humble enough to seek help in areas where you’re less experienced. Success also requires adaptability—the ability to pivot and adjust when challenges or changes arise. For me, combining persistence, humility, and flexibility has been key to building a meaningful and sustainable career in veterinary medicine.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I believe authenticity has been the cornerstone of building my reputation. By being my genuine self and letting my deep desire to help animals shine through, clients can feel my heart and intention. I approach each case with honesty and directness, tempered with compassion. This work is my life’s calling, and I do it with joy—an energy that resonates not just with the pets I treat, but with their owners as well.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.wholepetwisdom.com
• Instagram: @wholepetwisdom and @vitalpawsvs
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wholepetwisdom
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wholepetwisdom