Our Veterinarians

Christine Barrett, Supervising DVM

Meet BrightHaven’s own Christine Barrett, DVM. Chris has been BrightHaven’s supervising veterinarian since 2005 and has been one of our prescribing vets since the early 90s. Chris has offered her heart and services for so many years to BrightHaven and the names of all the cats, dogs, birds and even toads she has treated far too numerous to mention but they, along with her current patients, Mr. Magoo, Bailey, and Jack, all offer thanks in unison! Dr Chris obtained a BA in German at Santa Clara University before joining the Class of ’67 at UC Davis, from where she obtained a DVM and graduated in 1986. She went on to study homeopathy for animals with the father of animal homeopathy, Dr. Richard Pitcairn, and has been practicing classical homeopathy since 1995. Chris has participated in extensive further education programs and is one of the most competent and caring practitioners we have had the pleasure of working with. In retirement, Chris is not accepting new patients at this time.

BrightHaven’s Team of Contributing Homeopathic Veterinarians

BrightHaven is firmly committed to Classical Veterinary Homeopathy and is delighted to have this opportunity to introduce some of America’s finest veterinarians, all DVM’s who have the ability to probe deeply into the character and temperament of their patients, whilst having a true understanding of their complex physical symptoms.  We have worked for years entirely by telephone and email with all our homeopaths, as they are located far and wide across the USA. The ability to consult by telephone is invaluable for your elderly or sick animal as the need for horribly stressful veterinarian visits is completely eradicated. We thoroughly recommend you to consider working with any one of these practitioners.

Diana Bochenski, DVM, CVH

Dr. Diana has been a firm BrightHaven favorite for many years – both with the humans and animals alike! Together we have been humbled by the many incredible experiences of healing we have shared as she has volunteered her expertise to help our animals. She is currently treating our own little dainty feline, Diana, homeopathically with tremendous success. Dr. Diana is often readily available both day and night for an emergency consultation, which is an amazing asset when you realize that the BH animals are mostly elderly or chronically ill and subject to acute flare-ups. Thank you, Dr. Diana!! Dr. Diana Bochenski, CVH received her DVM Degree from Colorado State University in 1986. She studied classical homeopathy under Dr. Richard Pitcairn in 1996 and 1997 and became certified by the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy in 1998. Dr. Diana is the past president of the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy; and has served five years on the Board of Directors. She is co-editor of the Journal of the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy and a member of the AVH, AVMA and CVMA. She divides her time between the Buellton Veterinary Clinic in Buellton, California, where she has worked for 18 years, and a home-based 100% homeopathic practice in Sheridan, Wyoming.

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Pat Bradley, DVM

Dr. Pat has been a BrightHaven homeopathic veterinarian for many years and her number one fan is Sophie, who became her first client back in the early 1990′s, when she was a very ill little feline girl. Now a thriving teenager, Sophie sports shining black fur and a huge energy – all evidence of her continuing good health. Thank you Pat – we all love you! Dr. Pat Bradley has professional licenses in Arkansas both as a counselor and a veterinarian. After obtaining her veterinary degree from LSU, she and her husband Fred opened a conventional private practice they named Animal House. Intrigued by her clients’ stories of alternative medicine, she soon became certified as a veterinary homeopath, and has studied many other areas of holistic medicine. Dr. Pat Bradley loves to learn and explore new things, and believes that her work, her play and her spiritual life are not separable. Following the guidance of her nighttime dreams, she became a counselor. She has found that this training has further allowed her to help people who are dealing with difficult emotional, physical and spiritual issues, whether they are human or animal-related.

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Christina B. Chambreau, DVM

A number of years ago Dr. Chambreau, in introducing us to homeopathy, showed us a rare miracle. Since that day she has not only joined our Board of Directors, taught us an unbelievable amount, and helped many of our animals, but has also introduced many of her profession to BrightHaven and “persuaded” them into helping us too! Thank you Christina! Christina Chambreau,is an internationally known homeopathic veterinarian. A dynamic teacher, Dr. Chambreau is chair of the board & founder of the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy and is on the faculty of the National Center for Homeopathy Summer School. She also teaches her own one and two-day courses, and lectures at conventions, schools, clubs and to anyone who is concerned about improving the health of animals. Written up in and quoted in many magazines, Dr. Chambreau graduated from the University of Georgia Veterinary College in 1980, began using homeopathy in her veterinary practice in 1983, and has used primarily homeopathy since 1988. She is married to Dr. Mort Orman, author of “The 14-Day Stress Cure” and “How to Have a Stress Free Wedding”. They have a 12-year-old daughter and live near Baltimore, Maryland. HealthyAnimals@aol.com 

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Jeff Feinman, BA, DVM, CVH

Jeffrey Feinman, BA, VMD, CVH holds both molecular biology and veterinary degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Jeff was the first dual degree recipient at Penn in the prestigious University Scholar program. His scientific experience includes research at The Wistar Institute, Penn’s School of Medicine Department of Biochemistry (where he first published his scientific research) and the veterinary school’s Department of Medical Genetics (where he wrote further scientific articles). In addition, his academic career during veterinary school included an externship in endocrinology at the Animal Medical Center in New York City, where he was again published. After graduation from veterinary school, Dr. Jeff was selected for a competitive internship in clinical medicine at the Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston. After fourteen months of intensive clinical experience he decided to postpone his planned academic career to work instead with patients. In clinical practice he quickly became alarmed by increasing rates of allergy, cancer and other degenerative diseases. Frustration with the results of conventional therapy on these chronic diseases fueled an interest in natural, holistic therapies. His scientific background helped him research and incorporate those natural therapies that were most efficacious into his practice. In 1998 he further advanced his training in Dr. Richard Pitcairn’s Professional Veterinary Homeopathy Course. Dr. Jeff then became the first Certified Veterinary Homeopath in the state of Connecticut. Currently his practice integrates the latest, safest, diagnostic techniques and treatments with holistic modalities such as clinical nutrition and homeopathy. All very impressive, right? RIGHT! And our Dr. Jeff is a very impressive veterinarian – that is for sure! Having worked with Dr. Jeff for several years we are thrilled to have him as a very valued part of the BrightHaven veterinary team. Currently Dr. Jeff is working to create the best health possible for our own dear Johnnie.

Harmony in life and living, homeopathy for health and healing.

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Jeff Levy, DVM, PCH

Dr. Jeff Levy, DVM, PCH is without doubt one of the greatest. We are tremendously lucky to enjoy the benefit of his incredible ability to probe deep into the character and temperament of his clients while showing a deep understanding of their complex physical symptoms—and our Jack can certainly vouch for that! Please read on in Dr. Jeff’s own words: “Veterinary homeopathy is one of my great passions in life. I have been studying and practicing since 1985, and teaching advanced prescribing since 1995. My practice is 100% homeopathic. I have clients all over the country, and most of my consultation is over the telephone. So when Christina Chambreau asked me to volunteer my services to Brighthaven, it seemed a natural fit. In fact, it has been a real pleasure working with Gail these last few years and the results have been quite rewarding. Whether or not you are considering homeopathic treatment for your cat, dog or horse, I invite you to visit my website [below]. There is general information on healthy lifestyle choices, such as diet, flea control, and vaccination. There is also information about me, about my practice, information for new clients, and other items of interest. I hope you will give me the opportunity to assist you with your animal’s health care.”

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Laurie Lofton, DVM, CVH

Allow us to introduce you to Dr. Laurie Lofton, who has been a dear friend to BrightHaven and our animal family for many years. Dr. Laurie’s first patient was a very precious feline lady named Claudette, who was old, blind, and had numerous health problems; however, under Dr. Lofton’s wonderful care she thrived and lived happily until it was her time to leave. Since then Dr. Laurie has treated every conceivable animal species at BrightHaven (except the toads!); cats, dogs, horses, goats, Harley the hog, as well as chickens, geese and ducks. In her practice, Dr. Lofton takes numerous farm calls and is very comfortable treating all animals, great and small, and exotic too! Currently Laurie’s BrightHaven patients number Bellestar the pony, Harley the hog, Dorothy and Mr. Murphy, the goats, Odette, the goose, Ronnie and Reggie, the ducks and Jake, Kate, Pam, Mrs. Potts, Giselle, Heidi, Ted and Louis, the chickens!!! Her compassion and love for animals shines through in her gentle voice, and her warm demeanor can make any worried and anxious animal parent feel reassured. She prescribes homeopathic remedies for her patients with competence, well attuned to the animal’s needs. Dr. Lofton graduated from Tufts Veterinary School and successfully completed Dr. Richard Pitcairn’s famous Professional Course in Veterinary Homeopathy, including two advanced courses. She was certified by the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy in 2003, but has practiced veterinary homeopathy for 10 years. Dr. Laurie Lofton is located in Rhode Island, and consultations are available either in person (within reasonable travel distance) or by telephone. We guarantee you will love Dr. Lofton.

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Marcia Martin, DVM, CVH

Dr. Marcia is renowned for her amazing care of our boy Panther, who died in 2010 after a very long and chronic illness. His continued joie de vivre was astonishing to all who knew him and his response to homeopathic remedies truly remarkable. Most recently Dr. Marcia has accepted the challenge of the care of BrightHaven “bad boy” Pepito, who suffers a different kind of chronic illness – this time one mostly centered in his emotions and manifested in his anger, frustration and spraying. We know that, with his new doctor’s expert care and prescribing, he will soon become the “lamb” we know he can be!! Dr. Marcia DuBois Martin graduated from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 1990.  Once in practice, it didn’t take her long to realize that drugs and vaccines didn’t hold the keys to health for her patients and she began to seek out other methods of creating and maintaining wellness.  The first modality that she studied was Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, completing the IVAS course in 2003. She then studied equine osteopathy and non-force chiropractic techniques. But she found her true calling when she attended her first Veterinary Homeopathic meeting in Miami in 2006. After this brief introduction to homeopathy, she chose to study with Dr. Richard Pitcairn, completing the professional course in veterinary homeopathy in 2009. Dr. Marcia’s “less is more” approach to animal health and well being has earned her the respect of her colleagues, clients and patients. She has written numerous articles on natural animal healthcare for such magazine as Natural Horse, Texas Horse Talk, Animal Wellness and Feline Wellness. She has also acted as consultant to Gallery Thoroughbred Racing and Cavalia.

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Francie Rubin, DVM, CVH

Dr. Francie L. Rubin is a 1989 graduate from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine. She began her career as a veterinary technician in 1974, knowing that her passion for the care and welfare of animals would only be realized by practicing veterinary medicine. In 1985, she entered veterinary school and has never looked back. “Going to veterinary school is my greatest accomplishment. I can’t think of a more rewarding career.” In addition to practicing conventional medicine, Dr. Rubin is trained in veterinary homeopathy and is a graduate of Dr. Richard Pitcairn’s professional course in veterinary homeopathy. Dr Rubin founded Rockledge Veterinary Clinic in 1994 in a small building on Sylvania Avenue. In 2003, she purchased “that old house behind the trees” and while keeping the integrity of the Victorian structure, turned it into a modern veterinary clinic. Dr. Rubin travels twice a year to Arizona and New Mexico with a group of veterinarians (Americans for Native Americans) who donate their time to spay and neuter and provide veterinary care to the pets of Native Americans. ”This opportunity to give back is extremely fulfilling.” Dr. Rubin lives in Rydal with her partner of 20+ years, her beloved dogs Gemma and Hopi and a few chickens. BrightHaven felines SuzyQ and Carrie would like to join with us to express their love and gratitude to Dr. Francie for taking care of them and helping them to feel better and better each day! Francie has been helping us to care for the BrightHaven residents for some years now and was responsible for helping SuzyQ’s mother, the late Stefanie, go down in the BrightHaven hall of fame! During her long battle with illness, Stefanie miraculously “lost” a large tumor in her ear one day and then proceeded to live on to tell the tale!

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Adriana Sagrera, DVM, CVH

Dr. Adriana Sagrera has taken some of our most difficult cases, cats not only very sick, but wild too. She shows extreme sensitivity, compassion and understanding, whilst prescribing with care and accuracy. Adriana is referred to as the BrightHaven Magician, well known for the many miracles of healing and longevity we have witnessed together over many years. She is the person we turn to when we have ailing old-timers who need a new lease on life, as well as for those who appear to be dying and need help in their journey… Many of those recover against all odds, like dear Edie, who died after a yearlong happy journey against all odds. Her current charges are the adorable Sylvie and Gabby, both brought here to die… and both flourishing! Dr. Sagrera is committed to alternative veterinary medicine as a way to improve the health of pets in the most natural and non-invasive ways possible. After graduating from Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1987, she practiced traditional veterinary medicine for six years. During that time, she observed the effects of over-medication and over-vaccination of pets. She also saw cases where, although the diagnosis was grim in terms of traditional veterinary science, the pet improved with homeopathic care. Recognizing the success of the alternative veterinary medicine techniques, she began her studies in veterinary homeopathy in1993 and became a certified classical veterinary homeopath in 1995. Her practice is based on providing pets with gentle, effective treatment in a stress-free environment.

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Michele Yasson, DVM

Dr. Michele has been a long-time friend to BrightHaven and has taken many of the BrightHaven animals as her patients over the years. Her clients have included cats, dogs and horses, and number some of our most wonderful success stories. She is a graduate of Rutgers University and the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, and has been practicing in New York since 1985. She is an active member of the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, the National Center for Homeopathy, and the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. She is certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, the leading authority in veterinary acupuncture in the United States. Dr. Yasson is considered a pioneering elder in the field of natural veterinary medicine and has been featured in numerous books, expos and conferences, newspaper and magazine stories, and radio and television programs.

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Other Homeopathic Veterinarians

• Dr. Charles Loops
  Pittsboro, NC
  TEL: 919-542-0442
• Dr. Dawn Waltonbaugh
  Brooksville, FL
  TEL: 352-238-0168
• Dr. Arthur Young
  Stuart, FL
  TEL: 772-286-389