About Dr. Michelle
Dr. Michelle Elgersma brings over 25 years of veterinary experience and a genuine passion for integrative care to the animals of Cape Breton. A graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College (1996), her career has taken her from farm animals and domestic pets to elite thoroughbred racehorses — and along the way, a heartfelt commitment to feral cat advocacy.
In 2012, she earned her certification through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS), and shortly after founded Kalmeren Veterinary Acupuncture — a practice built on the belief that every animal deserves a treatment plan as individual as they are. Specializing in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), including Chinese herbal therapy, Dr. Michelle takes a whole-patient approach that looks beyond symptoms to support lasting health and balance.
A Fellow of the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture (FAAVA), she remains actively engaged in the global veterinary community — teaching IVAS certification courses and currently serving as the society's Treasurer.
After many rewarding years in Pittsburgh, Dr. Michelle and her husband Steve are glad to be back in Canada, and have happily made Sydney their new home. She shares her life with their three cats — Pixel, Bean, and Blue — and when she's not on a house call, you'll likely find her out hiking, knitting, reading, or deep into a DIY project.
Now a proud part of the Cape Breton community, she looks forward to continuing to offer the area's animals the gentle, specialized care they deserve.