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    Former OSU faculty member opens Elemental Veterinary Center and Pet Spa

    Though Dr. Jane Flores was an award-winning faculty member at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she served as team leader of the general practice service in its teaching hospital, she longed to own a practice of her own.

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    However, that’s not the sole reason she opened Elemental Veterinary Center and Pet Spa, at 1250 N. High St., in July. She also believes the time is right to update the image of veterinary medicine and what it entails− a factor that played into her decision to locate her practice in Columbus’s Short North.

    “This area is a pretty tough market to find the right location that isn’t already well served,” Flores says. “My original thought was to find a location closer to our home and I did look into several sites. With some helpful advice, I realized that maybe I should expand my search. The Short North has always fascinated me with its sense of culture and community. My vision for the clinic fit in perfectly with the Short North– style, forward thinking, community friendly, alternative options. I couldn’t find a better fit.”

    The Metropreneur recently caught up with Flores to hear more about her vision and how she’s brought it to life. To learn why she thinks educating families about alternative pet care is important, what she loves most about being her own boss, and her ultimate goal for the practice, keep reading.

    The Metropreneur: You specialize in integrating alternative medicine with traditional vet care. Can you explain that a bit?

    Jane Flores: Integrative medicine is about giving owners more options in their pet’s care. By combining elements of Eastern medicine, such as acupuncture and herbal therapies, with modern Western medicine, I can offer therapies to fill in the gaps in care that are left when practicing just one methodology. This philosophy gives the owner peace of mind knowing that I am treating all aspects of their special friend’s well being.

    [M]: What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a business owner and how did you overcome it?

    JF: Since there is not a handbook on how to start a practice, I think it was the process of figuring out what I needed to do to get the doors open. From working with the contractors, filing paperwork, joining the right organizations, advertising, family life, and so on, it was such a learning process. Even now, after being open, I am finding things that still need done. Maybe I’ll write that handbook in the future!

    [M]: In your opinion, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a business owner?

    JF: Having flexibility in my schedule without the guilt. I am fortunate to have such a wonderful staff to count on. They allow me to take care of things outside of the clinic when my attention is needed elsewhere. And of course my clients are an absolute joy!

    [M]: Is there anything else you think we should know?

    JF: My goal is to show people that veterinary medicine is more than rabies vaccinations and flea/tick medication. People are very attached to their pets and are an important part of a lot of families. By educating families on the options and alternatives in their pet’s care, they are given an opportunity to participate in the decisions that affect their special friend’s life. This brings families together and helps build the bonds that keep families together.

    To learn more about Elemental Veterinary Center and Pet Spa, visit ElementalVetCenter.com.

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