Veterinarian Brings Holistic Approach to Pets in Berkley

In its next incarnation, the 1,065-square foot building at 1722 W. 11 Mile Rd. will be the newest workspace of licensed veterinarian Nicole LeVeque.

This Royal Oak animal doctor isn’t just an ordinary vet, either. She’s got a specialty that’s unique to the field and now it’s coming to Berkley.

“It’s not a conventional practice at all,” said LeVeque, whose clinic's name is Natural Healing Pet Care. “I work with herbals, homeopathic and other natural supplements. I don’t do surgeries or having boarding though. My clinic is a very calming place, very quiet and the energy is different.”

New-age medicine for age-old companions

At her clinic, LeVeque provides everything from acupuncture to laser therapy for animals with arthritis, injuries, swollen joints or those who need expedited healing.

After 12 years in the arena of conventional approaches to veterinary science (with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Michigan and a doctorate degree from Michigan State), she decided it was time to offer her clients the same type of well-being she sought.

That’s when she became certified in animal acupuncture and then veterinarian spinal manipulation therapy – essentially a chiropractor for animals.

“I live my life more holistically, trying to work with herbals and getting at the root causes. It’s that philosophy that resonates with me and how I want to treat my patients,” she said.

What’s great about her specialty service is that it works well for people who live holistic lifestyles, too, or those who want to supplement their pets’ care with alternative methods of health, she explained.

A clinic pets will want to go to

Her clinic, which is to open July 10, is meant to be a retreat of sorts for pets. With the work she’s put into the space on 11 Mile, she said her clients will feel at home and animals know it’s a safe place for them.

“I think the animals sense that the atmosphere is different than a conventional veterinarian’s (office).”

The space is being renovated to include a new foyer area, two entrances, bay windows and warm golden walls. LeVeque first laid eyes on the place during last year’s Dream Cruise and has been working ever since to formally transplant her business from Royal Oak.

Her current office is shared with a human acupuncturist, but LeVeque said business has grown enough to need a place of her own.

According to Berkley City Planner Amy Vansen, the space LeVeque is taking up has been vacant for quite some time, being a place of worship and a home prior to being rezoned for LeVeque’s office.

Vansen said the process began back in October to rezone the place and then apply for special land use approval in January to the City Commission. With permits ready to go, things have been progressing quickly, she said.

LeVeque said she’s thankful the opening date is near. In her final few weeks before the clinic opens, she’ll be doing more landscaping, which she plans to make into an outdoor oasis, she explained, and creating a welcoming energy in her exam rooms.

Visiting Natural Pet Healing Care

Natural Pet Healing Care will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 4-9 p.m. Thursdays, and also open the first and third Saturday of each month. Sessions are by appointment only and clients can call for pricing.

In addition to veterinary services, LeVeque also runs a free pet loss support group from 7-8 p.m. the last Thursday of each month.

For more information, call 248-797-5139 or visit the Natural Pet Healing Care website.