🐾 Driving Changes Together

Earlier this week, I had a heart-to-heart with a mentor who has become a close friend—a “friendtor,” as Rachel on our team playfully suggested. I love that term! It sparked a deep reflection during my morning gratitude practice, as I thought about my journey—about mentors who have become friends, and my own evolution into being both a mentor and friendtor myself.

As someone who’s always in a student mindset, I often forget to step back and reflect on my own growth. But every now and then, something or someone reminds me of just how far I’ve come. This conversation was one of those powerful reminders.

What an exhilarating ride it has been! My friendtor and I talked about our entrepreneurial journeys, the daring adventure of creating something new, and the challenges we’ve faced along the way. We laughed about the tough decisions at the forks in the road, but as we talked, I found a profound clarity about myself.

I finally understood why I burned out a few years ago while working in traditional veterinary medicine. For so long, vet med was my everything—the one thing I was certain I wanted to dedicate my life to. So how could I have fallen out of love with the very thing that gave my life purpose?

Now, I realize that at my core, I am a creator, an entrepreneur. I thrive on evolution, on building and pushing forward. Doing the same things over and over, or being told that things couldn’t change, stifled my spirit. It left me feeling drained and uninspired. But at the time, I didn’t have the clarity to understand why.

That’s why at Integrative Pet, we’re always evolving, always morphing. We’ve built a team that thrives on this journey of constant growth and innovation. It’s not just about doing things differently—it’s about doing things better, about creating new possibilities where none existed before.

Just this weekend, our dear Shannon celebrated her white coat ceremony at Iowa State. As I looked at her photos and read her heartfelt words, I found myself tearing up. I was once again reminded of my journey as a friendtor. It’s such an honor to have guided incredible people along the way, and it fills my heart with pride to see them take flight in their own lives.

I’m incredibly excited about where we are as a team and the ideas that have been brewing behind the scenes. One of our biggest missions is to make integrative medicine and its options more accessible to pets everywhere. It’s a bold vision, and I’m ready to take on bigger roles to help drive this mission forward.

But I can’t do it alone. I’m so grateful to have you on this journey with us. Your support means everything, and together, we can create a world where more pets have access to the care they deserve. Let’s keep pushing forward, evolving, and making a difference—one step, one idea, and one pet at a time. 

I’d be so grateful for your help in driving our mission forward. If you have a moment, please leave us a review and share your experiences. Your words have the power to make a real difference in the world! 🌟

With love, ❤️
Dr. Lily Chen

Starlight Stories

Hey there, fellow unicorns! 🦄 It’s your magical friend Starlight here, and today, I’m excited to introduce you to a dog breed that’s as full of energy and playfulness as a pack of puppies on a sugar rush—the Boxer!

Boxers are one of those dog breeds that just radiate joy. With their strong, muscular build and a face that’s both serious and goofy at the same time, they’re impossible not to love. But don’t let their tough looks fool you; these pups are all about fun and affection. Did you know Boxers are known as “Peter Pan” dogs? Yep, that’s right! They stay puppy-like in their hearts (and their antics) well into adulthood, making them the perfect furry family members for kids and adults alike.

These dogs are all about their people. They’re super loyal, protective, and always ready to leap to your side—sometimes literally! (Boxers are famous for their energetic “boxing” moves with their front paws when they’re excited.) They love to be right in the middle of the action, whether it’s playing in the yard, going on a walk, or just hanging out on the couch. Their high energy makes them fantastic workout buddies, so if you’re into running or hiking, a Boxer might just be your new best friend. 

Did You Know? Fun Boxer Facts!

• History Buffs: Boxers have a long and interesting history. Originally from Germany, they were bred as working dogs and used for hunting, guarding, and even as messenger dogs in wartime.

• Talk About Expression!: One of the coolest things about Boxers is their face. They have this wrinkly, soulful expression that changes from curious to happy to focused in the blink of an eye. Those big, dark eyes and floppy ears can melt anyone’s heart!

• Wiggly Wiggles: Boxers are known for their “wiggle butt” dance! When they get excited (which is pretty much all the time), their whole body wags along with their tail. It’s the kind of happy dance that just makes your day brighter.

• Silly Clowns: Despite their powerful appearance, Boxers are total clowns at heart. They love making their humans laugh with goofy antics, playful pounces, and the occasional zoomie sprint around the house.

Well, that’s it for today’s breed spotlight! If you know a Boxer, give them a scratch behind the ears from me. And if you’re considering adding one to your family, just know that you’re in for a lifetime of laughter, love, and wiggles.

— ❤️ Starlight

PS photo of me hanging out with Chloe the Boxer! Isn’t she just the sweetest?