Dr Harris was born outside Wellington, New Zealand, on a property with animals of all shapes and sizes. She knew early on that she wanted to be a veterinarian.

She earned a Bachelor degree in Zoology and also one in Veterinary Science from Massey University in 1986. After graduation, she briefly went into mixed practice in New Zealand, then went overseas for five years; doing locum work in the UK as well as working with camels in Kenya.

Upon her return home, Dr Harris purchased a small animal practice in Wellington and remained there for ten years. During that time, she started her holistic training, earning a certification in acupuncture by IVAS, certifying in NAET, and taking courses in Homeopathy, Trigger Point Therapy, Flower Essences, Herbal Medicine and Nutraceuticals. 

While she was a practice owner, Dr Harris also appeared regularly on radio and television, discussing veterinary medicine and natural living. She sold the practice and now sees patients in a room on her property as well as attending to her four acre garden.