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Twin Cities Vet Accused Of Practicing Without License

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Twin Cities pet guru is in trouble with the law for his work as a holistic veterinarian.

Eric Weisman faces 58 counts, all stemming from a 2003 court injunction where he was told to stop treating animals.

It was business as usual Thursday at the Evolution Diet Pet Food Warehouse. The daily operations have not been interrupted, even though the owner, Weisman, faces 58 charges stemming from his work.

"I think he means well.  He's good-hearted dedicated," said Lynn Crandall-Weisman, Eric Weisman's wife.

In addition to selling vegan pet food, Weisman touted himself on TV and online as a doctor of health sciences. He offers advice to treat animals through holistic medicine.

The problem is in 2003, the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine filed an injunction telling him to stop.

"He operates in total disregard for the facts of situation," said Randy Gustafson, a spokesman for the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office.

Weisman is now accused of practicing medicine without a license and contempt of court.

"It is as low as you can go, prey on people's emotions for pets," said Gustafson.

A search of his home showed documents referring to Weisman as a doctor, even though he doesn't have the license, and pictures of a dirty medicine filled refrigerator have some questioning his ability to heal.

"You wonder what medicine is being practiced," said Gustafson.

Weisman's wife said the power had gone out in that refrigerator and there were two other functioning refrigerators in the home. She also said her husband just offers advice, sells a supplement and always tells people that he's not a licensed veterinarian.

"People come to us and we try to help. I don't know what's not right about it," said Crandall-Weisman. 

Crandall-Weisman said she believes her husband has helped more than harmed, but authorities have given 58 reasons to doubt that.

"I think the people that know us know what kind of people we are," said Crandall Weisman.

"On a personal note, I think it's wrong and should be stopped," said Gustafson.

Weisman has not been arrested and probably won't see any jail time unless there is a conviction.

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