Integrative & Holistic Medicine

How do Acupuncture & Homeopathy Work?

Acupuncture works by correcting imbalances in the flow of Qi (sometimes translated as “vital energy”) within the body. The Qi moves throughout the body via a system of channels called meridians, which are connected to internal organs. The Qi can be accessed by points along the meridians into which needles are inserted. Sometimes these points are stimulated by the use of mid electric current, warmed with herbs (moxa) or stimulated by application of a low intensity laser.

Homeopathic remedies are high dilutions of plant, mineral or animal substances. One benefit of homeopathic remedies is that the substances are so highly diluted that they are entirely non-toxic. With the correctly chosen remedy, a trigger effect will ensue, whereby the body is able to return to balance and heal itself.

Meet Our Doctors

Doctor Qualifications
Both Dr. Kirsten Williams and Dr. Cynthia Easton have been certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) and are members of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association.
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Kirsten Williams, DVM

Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Dr. Williams was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and earned both her B.S. in Zoology (1988) and her D.V.M. (1992) from UC Davis. Early in her career, she developed an interest in holistic medicine, completing courses in veterinary acupuncture (1998) and Chinese herbal medicine through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. She also learned veterinary prolotherapy over 15 years ago and enjoys helping dogs and cats regain mobility and strengthen damaged joints.

Dr. Williams has been married to her husband, Stuart, since 1994, and together they raised their son, Aidan, and daughter, Genevieve, in Oakland. They now share their home with their sweet dog, Moxie. Outside of work, she practices the Japanese martial art Aikido, enjoys cooking and wine tasting, and is learning to play the guitar.

Cynthia Easton, DVM

Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

​​​​​​​Dr. Easton is a graduate of the Veterinary School at the University of California, Davis, and has practiced veterinary medicine for over 25 years. After a medicine and surgery internship at the University of Pennsylvania veterinary school, Dr. Easton worked for Pets Unlimited in San Francisco where she began pursuing an interest in holistic medicine. Doctor Easton has taken courses in Homeopathy, Western and Chinese herbology, and is certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. Providing clients with multiple options, doctor Easton helps clients choose the type of medicine best suited for them and their pets.

Dr. MacRae, DVM

Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Dr. Megan MacRae grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, and earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Iowa State University in 2025. From the age of four, she knew she wanted to become an animal doctor—but along the way, she discovered that the human-animal bond extends to the relationships formed with pet owners, and she finds deep fulfillment in building trust with clients as well as caring for their pets.

Dr. MacRae has a strong passion for integrative and collaborative care, blending Eastern and Western medical approaches to support the whole well-being of her patients. She is especially interested in orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions in senior pets. She is currently completing her CVA (Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist) through Chi University, and holds certifications in Fear Free, RECOVER Basic and Advanced Life Support, and USDA Accreditation. Her training includes surgical externships in the UK and Brazil, as well as a three-year surgical mentorship under the chief of surgery at Iowa State’s Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center.
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Outside of work, Dr. MacRae enjoys triathlons, writing, reading, and traveling the world—especially if there’s an ocean nearby. She is also a proud and devoted auntie.