Talk Story with an Advertiser: Maika‘i Veterinary Clinic
Alfred Mina, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) has a deep-seated interest in caring for animals and for serving the Hilo community. He was born on Kaua‘i and raised in Hilo on Hawai‘i Island. As a child, he was active in 4H where he learned how to care for animals.
As a young man, Alfred took an interest in veterinary care and went on to receive a Bachelors of Science in agriculture and a Bachelors of Arts in biology from the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo. In 2000, he graduated from Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
He says that working with animals is about working with people too.
“Working in this profession, people think we’re just working with animals, but a lot of it is dealing with clients,” he says.
He works daily to help heal animals based on creating a relationship of trust with their owners first. He gains clues from the owner about how he can best help their beloved pet.
As the clinic has grown, Alfred and the staff have tried to incorporate technology into the practice in a way that’s affordable to clients. Maika‘i Veterinary Clinic is the only one in East Hawai‘i that offers stem cell treatment and laser therapy for animals with arthritic conditions.
In 2011, Dr. Maila Lyons joined the clinic as a graduate from Colorado State University. Malia was also born and raised in Hilo.
Both doctors are committed to giving back and regularly bring local high school and college students on as interns or on-staff to learn about veterinary medicine.
They are also both trained to be mixed-animal practitioners in veterinary school.
“We see more than just dogs and cats: avian, exotic birds, small mammals, zoo animals.” Alfred says.
Alfred says what makes Maika‘i Veterinary Clinic most unique is their level of care.
“I work from my heart. Some just work from their title. My clients believe in what I do for their pets,” he says.
Maika‘i Veterinary Clinic
111 East Puainako Street Suite 109, Hilo, HI 96720
808.959.CARE (2273)
MaikaiVet.com
