Sunny’s Credentials
Sunny has been a clinical herbalist for more than 30 years, providing herbal medicine for both people and animals. Her work has included a particular focus on herbal antibiotics and the use of herbs to support animal health.
Locally, herbal preparations from her apothecary, Bluebird Herbals, are stocked at Healing Spirit Animal Wellness Center under the supervision of veterinarian Dr. Sarah Green. Bluebird Herbals has also provided herbal preparations to veterinarians in several other states.
Sunny brings a strong scientific background to her work with medicinal plants. She earned a Master of Science in Natural Resources from Humboldt State University, with an emphasis on water chemistry and microbiology. Her graduate research examined natural systems for wastewater treatment and drew on both disciplines. She also holds bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Environmental Science and a minor in Chemistry.
Sunny began doctoral studies at the University of Connecticut and was later accepted to transfer to Cornell University to study under wetland ecologist Barbara Bedford. Her path changed when she discovered herbal medicine, allowing her to bring her background in biology, ecology, and chemistry into the study of medicinal plants.
Thirty years ago, Sunny completed an eight-month herbal apprenticeship at Sage Mountain with renowned herbalist Rosemary Gladstar. Following the apprenticeship, she completed a year-long Advanced Herbal Training for Clinical Practitioners at Sage Mountain, studying with Gladstar and other experienced herbal practitioners.
Over the years, Sunny has taught at herbal conferences on topics including Herbal Antibiotics and Herbs for Pets, as well as at conferences focused on herbal approaches for companion and farm animals. Her continuing education has included rigorous coursework in pharmacognosy—the study of medicines derived from natural sources—and three decades of ongoing study of plant chemistry and herbal medicine through scientific and medical literature.
At Camp Dogtopia, Sunny brings this experience to the careful administration of herbal preparations for animals in our care.
Herbal medicines are administered according to owner instructions and, when appropriate, veterinary guidance.