Following inspiration and a degree in Chemical Engineering from Yale University, Dr. Irene discovered her ultimate passion at the UC Davis Veterinary School of Medicine. Her own kitten, Poki, and Dr. Joan Teitler became her mentors, guiding her yearning to address compassionate, complete, and comprehensive patient care as a veterinarian. As a Don Low Fellow at UC Davis from 2012-2013, she familiarized herself with ICU and emergency care. Now specializing in feline medicine with immeasurable talent, proven knowledge and expertise above and beyond what is required to practice veterinary medicine, Dr. Irene is the only American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) feline specialist in Sacramento, one of only 62 ABVP Feline Diplomates worldwide.
“I believe in taking care of the entire patient–and how important it is to take care of the owners needs, as well as addressing the medical problems of the patient. I am especially proud of my ability to take care of complex feline cases–the kidney patient with heart failure, or the cancer patient with renal disease and IBD…and for my canine patients, letting them eat treats and working around their needs is something I enjoy doing (even if it means rolling around on the floor!).”
Reading a patient’s body language is important to know what they will allow, and to gauge their stress level, are the basis of practicing Fear Free medicine. Dr. Irene is grateful to be part of this unique and progressive aspect of medicine where patient’s needs are placed first–not just the medical needs, but emotional needs, as well.
Hobbies with her human family (husband and daughter) are based around weight training, USA swimming, and the Elk Grove Aquatic Club Later Gator US Master Swim program. Her home-based fun is centered around their 4 cats: Pico, Boba, Nita and Taki; and 2 dogs: Coco-Chan and Mochi.
"While working at VCA Country Oaks, I have an opportunity to work with dogs and exotics, but for my feline patients there is a dedicated cat area–and with the Cat Friendly Practice and Fear Free procedures in place, I really feel I will be able to provide the best stress-free medical care for our feline patients.”
As a veterinarian, Dr. Irene’s 3 words to describe her veterinary care would be: “Compassionate, Complete and Comprehensive”.
