Dr. Lockerman became interested in veterinary acupuncture following two life changing events. The first event was witnessing the improved quality of life experienced by an elderly cat that belonged to a friend and colleague. The cat had been diagnosed with renal disease and when acupuncture was added to the treatment protocol the cat’s appetite and attitude improved as did her quality of life.

The second event was more personal. Murphy, her own horse, was diagnosed with severe hock and back arthritis. Joint injections, pain medications, and rest did not offer much relief; and at 10 years of age Dr. Lockerman was looking at having to retire her trail riding buddy. Thankfully, the suggestion was made to try acupuncture. Now Murphy is 25 years old, and the arthritis is still there; but with acupuncture, laser therapy, and herbs he and Dr. Lockerman can still hit the trails! A few years ago when Murphy had to have emergency colic surgery, she found that post operative acupuncture helped speed his recovery time and shorten the length of his stay in the hospital.

Dr. Lockerman is a graduate of Purdue University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. She has received her Certification in Veterinary Acupuncture from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society.

Dr. Lockerman began KARE Veterinary Services to provide options for owners who felt they were out of options in regard to caring for their pets. She wanted a way to keep loved family members comfortable and active for the remainder of their lives and to be able to treat them in their own homes eliminating the need to load them into cars or horse trailers for the sometimes stressful trip to the veterinarian.