Holistic Veterinary Care Service

Dr. Kassell received her veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1994.
She then practiced conventional small animal medicine in Gig Harbor, Washington.
Although she loved being a vet, she found herself frustrated by what she could offer her patients with conventional medicine alone.
When she learned of a year-long course specifically for veterinarians in nutrition and homeopathy, she jumped at the opportunity to take it.
The experience transformed her veterinary practice and her life.

As an integrative veterinarian, Dr. Kassell strives to provide a comprehensive medical approach to pet care, combining preventive health care and nutrition with the best of conventional and holistic medicine.
Guidance in caring for your kitten, puppy, middle-aged or senior dog or cat: this all aspects of pet care, from preventive health care to sick pet care, with a focus on on nutrition, vaccinations, flea, tick and heartworm prevention, exercise and ways to limit stress in the home.
Vaccines: thimerosal- and adjuvant-free whenever possible, following Dr. Jean Dodds's vaccine protocols.

The practice of integrative veterinary care involves integrating conventional and complementary therapies to promote optimal health, and prevent and treat disease.
Dr. Kassell is passionate about preventive health care.
Working with her clients, she creates unique well-pet plans for each pet based on nutrition, vaccination, flea and tick control, heartworm prevention, fresh air, sunshine, exercise, and love.
In treating her patients for specific conditions, Dr. Kassell utilizes nutrition, nutraceuticals, and herbs, as well as conventional medications and therapies.

Here's a list of people, products and informational resources that Dr. Kassell wholeheartedly recommends!
Blue Pearl Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center, with branches in Conshohocken, Levittown, and Philadelphia; (484) 567-7999.
Charles Loops: Homeopathy and nutritional/nutraceutical phone consultations, based in North Carolina.
New Leash on Life: A prison-dog training program, dedicated to improving the life of prisoners and saving the lives of dogs.
Animal Care and Control Team Philly: Provides shelter, care and lifesaving efforts for homeless, abandoned, and abused animals in Philadelphia.

It's only February, and thankfully, most of the little vampires otherwise known as fleas and ticks are still dormant (at least here in Philly).
But spring is on its way, and with it, our not-so-friendly bloodsucking hitchhikers.
Preventing fleas and ticks naturally - or at least minimizing them while also minimizing harm to our pets.
When I first started my house call practice back in the '90s, I knew the environment would be nicer for me, but I didn't really consider the impact it would have on my patients.