Karla’s journey in the veterinary field began in 2006 during her time at USF, where she discovered a true passion for veterinary medicine. A dedicated veterinary nurse, she thrives on client education and has a deep, special affection for senior and geriatric patients. At home, Karla and her husband share their lives with four cherished cats who completely rule the roost. Outside of the clinic, you can usually find her traveling, attending live concerts, enjoying outdoor activities, or settling in for a good horror movie.
Michelle graduated from Hillsborough Community College in 2015 with an Associate degree in Veterinary Science. She became a Certified Veterinary Technician that same year. She has worked with animals for over 10 years and her special interest is in behavior. She recently earned her Low Stress Handling Certification, and works closely with Dr. Bertolo, who also has a special interest and training in animal behavior. She practices many fear free techniques to help alleviate patient anxiety while visiting Family Animal Hospital. Michelle loves bulldogs, and has one named Anthony who loves to come to work with her, and a cat.
Jen has been working in the veterinary field for over 40 years. She hails from New Jersey where she worked at a cat only hospital for 12 years. She has her Certified Veterinary Technician degree, and in 2014 earned her Veterinary Practice Manager certification. Jen manages most of the business side of Family Animal Hospital but still enjoys being a vet tech, especially when kitties are involved! Jen is married with 2 children, a 2 grandbabies, and has 3 cats and 2 Boston Terriers.
Shelby has been working in veterinary medicine since earning her CVT license in 2017. After spending six years in high-volume surgery and anesthesia, she joined our hospital in December 2023. She has a special interest in surgery, anesthesia, and patient monitoring, and enjoys the technical and problem solving aspects of veterinary medicine. When she’s not at work, Shelby enjoys gaming, discovering new restaurants with her husband, and relaxing at home with her dog and two cats
Meg is originally from Japan and has been living in the states for 15 years. She has always been an animal lover and has a special love for cats! She earned her Certified Veterinary Assistant certificate in 2016 and has spent many hours volunteering at animal shelters. She has 2 cats, both named after food! Meg loves adventure and being outdoors. She loves hiking and exploring the waterways on her standup paddleboard. She plays ukulele and is quite the artist as well!
Sarah joined Family Animal Hospital as a receptionist in 2021. She has years of customer service and reception experience and we got to be her introduction to the exciting world of veterinary medicine! She loves working with animals and helping pet owners every day. She has a small zoo of her own, including Daisy the shih-tzu, Callie the snuggly pittie, Harry the tiny fluffy mutt, 2 cats, ducks, chickens, turkeys and goats. She also has a new precious baby and is enjoying spending more time at home being a mom.
Heather has been volunteering, job shadowing, and working in animal rescues & veterinary hospitals since 2001. Her passion is animal welfare & advocacy through education. When not working she enjoys traveling, cooking, cuddling with her cats, seeing live music, and spending time tending to her gardens and reptile room.