Dr. Shawn Messonnier graduated in 1987 from Texas A&M University with his doctorate of veterinary medicine.  In 1991, he opened Paws & Claws Animal Hospital, becoming the first referral hospital for dogs, cats, and exotic pets in Plano, Texas.

After using conventional therapies for several years, "Dr. Shawn," as he is known to pet lovers around the world, became convinced that many pets that were not improving with lifelong use of conventional medications might improve if some type of alternative treatment were available.  This desire to improve the quality of his patients' lives led him to become adept at treating pets with a variety of alternative treatments. 

In addition to practicing medicine, Dr. Shawn serves on the board of the prestigious international journal Veterinary Forum.  He is also the creator and editor-in-chief of Exotic Pet Practice, the only monthly international publication devoted to the care of exotic pets.  Dr. Shawn reached over half a million pet owners each month as the former holistic columnist for both Dog Fancy and Cat Fancy magazines! Dr. Shawn continues to write regular columns on holistic pet care for Animal Wellness and Body + Soul.

In addition to authoring numerous articles, Dr. Shawn has also authored a number of books for both pet owners and veterinarians.  Most recently, Dr. Shawn has teamed up with Prima Publishing, a leading publisher in the alternative therapy field, to create a brand new series of health guides called The Natural Vet^TM.  This best selling series teaches owners how to care for their pets using safe, natural, alternative treatments for a variety of medical conditions. His book, 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog (Rodale) gives pet owners an easy 8 week program to get their pets in tip-top shape! His latest book, The Natural Vet's Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs (New World Library,) is the #1 selling book on using integrative medicine to treat animal cancer.

Currently Dr. Shawn is host of his award-winning international radio show, Dr. Shawn-The Natural Vet, heard twice weekly on Martha Stewart Living Radio, on Sirius.

Dr. Shawn is also a speaker and consultant.  His popular lectures teach veterinarians and pet owners how holistic care can reduce the cost of veterinary care and help pets live longer, healthier lives.  His lecture style is unique, often combining humor and magic to enforce his message.  He challenges those he works with to be the best they can be, rising above any challenges they may face.  He is committed to providing the best health care for his patients.