It’s 06:30 on a chilly winter morning in Hanoi, and Associate Professor Phạm Thị Xuân Vân (91) climbs onto a moto-taxi and heads to the Pet Acupuncture Association’s Community Veterinary Clinic—a routine she has maintained for the past decade or so. In 2012, in affiliation with the Vietnam Academy of Agriculture, Mrs. Vân established the Pet Acupuncture Association’s Community Veterinary Clinic. Its mission? To provide treatment for paralyzed cats and dogs using traditional acupuncture techniques.
Additionally, the clinic serves as a training ground for students from the academy’s Veterinary department, allowing them to gain hands-on experience as part of their graduation thesis. Thanks to support from the academy and generous sponsors, the clinic operates under a free treatment policy. Owners only need to cover minimal expenses for food, lodging, and medication during weeks or even months of acupuncture therapy. The clinic’s dedicated staff includes both students from the department and alumni who volunteer their support.
Mrs. Vân, a member of the Vietnam Academy of Agriculture’s inaugural cohort of lecturers, pursued her veterinary studies at South China Agricultural University from 1953 to 1958. During her time there, she immersed herself in the research of animal acupuncture techniques. Upon returning home, she pushed for its integration as a core practice within the Veterinary Department. Today, after six decades, she stands as Vietnam’s foremost pet acupuncturist, mentoring countless practicing veterinarians. Her love and commitment to animals and her young students continue to fuel her ongoing research and work.
How does it feel to be 72?
Why did you retire or why are you still working?
Why did you retire?
Why are you still working?
The important reason that has kept me going all these years, is that I truly enjoy working with the students. We all have a very tight bond. It's great to see the students truly loving their work. It takes a lot of patience, you get scratched and bitten all the time, I think it's because they truly love animals that they can overcome these hardships. There are hundreds of students at the department but not many choose to practice at the clinic, only the few who love these animals so much - that's why they are able to do so well.
Everyday upon waking up, I wish that the art of acupuncture continues to develop. It's my only wish. After 60 years, I will finally be handing over the acupuncture subject at the Academy in January. Still, I will continue my daily routine at the clinic as an advisor, to support the new teachers. So you can't really say that I'm retiring, as I intend to keep working until my very last breath. As long as I'm healthy, I will try my best, it's not only good for me but for this society as well.
What do you look forward to?
What is your biggest concern?
Life expectancy 2023
