Meet Arielle Walton of House Paws Acupuncture of Nashville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Arielle Walton

Hi Arielle , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve been an animal lover for as long as I can remember—dogs, cats, Guinea pigs, fish, and even a hedgehog made up my childhood zoo. My mother, who once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian herself, planted the seed that grew into my passion for veterinary medicine.

But my journey wasn’t just about growing up surrounded by pets. It was fueled by a deep love for science and an unwavering desire to help God’s creatures. That’s what led me to veterinary medicine. I didn’t want to stop at just treating symptoms—I wanted to make a real difference in the lives of animals, giving them the best chance at long, healthy, happy lives. For me, integrative medicine became the perfect answer, equipping me with an entire toolkit to address different conditions.

Of all the tools I’ve gained, Chinese medicine and acupuncture are my favorites. I wanted a therapy that was non-invasive, with minimal to no side effects, yet powerful enough to truly heal. Acupuncture does just that, tapping into the body’s natural ability to restore balance and well-being.

Originally from Atlanta, GA, I graduated from the illustrious Tuskegee University, an HBCU rich in history, with my bachelor’s and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees. It was during my senior year that my world changed—I discovered traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) and began studying acupuncture under the world-renowned Dr. Xie at the Chi Institute. This opened my eyes to the integration of Eastern and Western medicine, and I’ve never looked back since.

Now, I’ve been the proud owner and founder of House Paws Acupuncture of Nashville, a mobile acupuncture practice in Nashville, TN since 2019. My practice combines the best of both conventional and Chinese veterinary medicine to give my patients the best care possible. I’m also diving deeper into other therapies such as herbal therapy, whole-food diets, and rehabilitation/physical therapy for animals.

Outside the clinic, life is an adventure! My husband and I share our home with our three dogs—Lenoxx, Levii, and Tyson—and our favorite thing to do together is travel and explore new restaurants. I also believe in keeping the mind sharp, so I have taken up beekeeping and eco-herbalism this year. I’m a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. On Sundays, you’ll catch us at Tennessee Titans games, soaking in the excitement!

My story is all about passion, lifelong learning, and blending the best of both worlds to give animals the care they deserve.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—far from it! Vet school was the highest hurdle I’ve ever faced, mentally and physically. The hours of studying, the emotional toll, and the pressure to excel—it was all incredibly challenging. But I’ve always believed that the toughest paths lead to the most rewarding destinations. I kept reminding myself that every late night, every tough exam, was a step toward fulfilling my dream of helping animals.

And while vet school may have been the first big challenge, becoming a business owner has been a whole new adventure. It’s rewarding, but it’s also not for the faint of heart. There’s so much more to running a business than I could have imagined—managing finances, building a team, and always striving to grow while staying true to my passion for veterinary care. Every day brings a new lesson, and I’m constantly evolving as a businesswoman and a veterinarian.

Then there’s “adulting” in general—a struggle that I’m sure many can relate to. Balancing work, personal life, responsibilities, and self-care can feel overwhelming at times. But through it all, I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help, to lean on your support system, and to give yourself grace when things don’t go as planned.

The journey hasn’t been easy, but every obstacle has taught me something invaluable. And while the road may have twists and turns, it’s those challenges that make the victories so much sweeter. I wouldn’t trade the struggle because it’s shaped me into the person and veterinarian I am today.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’m a private practice, mobile veterinarian, which means I bring holistic veterinary care directly to my patients in the comfort of their homes. This allows me to create a more relaxed environment for both pets and their owners, which can be especially beneficial for anxious animals or those with mobility issues.

I specialize in integrative veterinary medicine, specifically traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) to offer a holistic approach to pet care. My expertise includes acupuncture, herbal therapy, and whole food diet consultations, which complement the western therapies from primary care providers. The integration of Eastern and Western medicine helps me treat a variety of conditions, such as pain management, arthritis, digestive issues, and more, while also focusing on preventative health.

What sets me apart is not only the unique combination of these therapies but also the fact that I’m a black female veterinarian, working in a field where we are still underrepresented.

I’m most proud of the impact I’ve had on the lives of my patients and their families. Watching an animal improve in health and happiness, knowing I’ve helped relieve their pain or enhanced their quality of life, is incredibly rewarding. The trust my clients place in me to care for their pets is something I value deeply, and it’s what motivates me to continue growing and evolving in my practice.

Ultimately, what makes my work unique is my commitment to providing compassionate, integrative, and individualized care while representing diversity in veterinary medicine. My goal is to not only heal animals but also to show others that there is room for everyone in this field.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My biggest piece of advice for anyone just starting out—especially as a black female in veterinary medicine—is to trust yourself and your journey. This field can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Don’t be afraid to take up space and stand confidently in your knowledge and skills. You belong here, and your unique perspective matters.

One thing I wish I knew when I was starting out is the importance of finding a community. Surround yourself with people who support you, whether that’s mentors, colleagues, or friends. Veterinary medicine can sometimes feel isolating, especially as a minority, but having a network of people who understand your experiences can make all the difference. It’s okay to lean on others for advice, guidance, and support.

Another key lesson I’ve learned is to advocate for yourself. Whether you’re negotiating your first job offer, seeking opportunities for growth, or dealing with challenges in the workplace, it’s important to speak up for what you need and deserve. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries, ask questions, or take on roles that push you out of your comfort zone. Growth comes from stretching yourself, and the only way to do that is by being your own advocate.

Lastly, remember that representation is powerful. By being visible in this field, you’re already paving the way for others who may feel like they don’t belong. Your presence and success show the next generation that they can achieve their dreams too. It’s a journey, but know that every step you take is not just for you—it’s for all those who will come after.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://housepawsacupuncture.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/housepawsacupuncturenashville/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/housepawsacupuncturenashville