From the age of 2, when she could be found doctoring her stuffed animals, Dr. Shelley Brown was destined to work with animals. By the age of 10 she had designed her own vet hospital and had mapped out her chosen career. She received her BA in Biology from the University of Colorado in 1991 and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University in 1997. In 1999, she completed the 140 hour Basic Course in Veterinary Acupuncture at Colorado State University, a discipline she has incorporated into her daily practice ever since. In 2013 Dr. Brown completed her specialty certification in companion animal pain management. She is currently pursuing education in herbal therapies and has a special interest in companion animal rehabilitation as well as hospice care.
In 2005, Dr. Brown launched Healing Touch Acupuncture for Animals, an in-home acupuncture practice. Realizing the need to fully integrate complementary and traditional veterinary medicine to better serve her clientele, she teamed up with Julia McPeek and began planning Harmony Veterinary Center. The opening of Harmony Veterinary Center in 2010 is the culmination of a lifelong dream for Dr. Brown, who has been a leader in the emerging field of veterinary integrative medicine.
Volunteering and giving back to the community are vital parts of Dr. Brown’s life. When not busy seeing patients, she also enjoys volunteering with local spay and neuter programs, as well as VIDAS, an international organization providing spays and neuters for dogs and cats in Mexico. She has worked with Lutheran Hospital’s Pet Therapy Program, Meow Mobile, and other pet organizations to further the human-animal bond. With the opening of Harmony Veterinary Center she is developing deeper relationships with volunteer organizations assisting dogs, cats, and people in the West Metro area.
In her spare time, Dr. Brown enjoys getting out into our beautiful state by snowshoeing, hiking, and camping. She has held certificates as a triathlon and cycling coach. “I enjoy introducing women to the sport of triathlon,” she says. “It is amazing to see the empowerment they get from completing races.” A competitor herself, the last few years have left little time for training. She is finally starting to train again so let’s cheer her on!
