Our Veterinary Team
Animal Hospital at Lakewood Ranch takes pride in the care and compassion that our team provides to our clients and patients each and every day.
Dr. Jennifer Catalina | Medical Director
Dr. Catalina was born and raised in Michigan. She graduated with her Bachelor's in Science from Michigan State University in 2002, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University in 2007. Specializing in small animals, pocket pets, and various exotic species, her true passion lies in veterinary dentistry. Dr. Catalina has successfully completed the 8-month Veterinary Dental Practitioners Program at the International Veterinary Dentistry Institute, ranking them among the foremost in general practice veterinary dentistry. Veterinary Dental Practitioners have undergone additional study, training, and assessment to enhance their knowledge and skills in veterinary dentistry, but they are NOT board-certified specialists.
In July 2021, Dr. Catalina and her family, including her husband, three daughters (with the eldest son still in Michigan), a 16.5-year-old black lab named Onyx, and two longhaired cats, Mini Mint and Binx, relocated to Florida. Beyond her veterinary expertise, Dr. Catalina is a Jack of all Trades — whether gardening, building, sewing, crafting, or engaging in various hobbies. She enjoys reading, watching movies, solving puzzles, and playing golf. Dr. Catalina is eager to meet your furry family members!
Tory Johnson | Practice Manager
Tory was born and raised in Illinois and moved to Florida in 2012 alongside her now-husband, Chris. Her career trajectory led her to become a veterinary receptionist shortly after, and shortly after, in 2014, she took on the role of Practice Manager. If you drop by our animal hospital, you'll find Tory in the company of her charming golden retriever, Murphy, who might even double as your receptionist if luck is on your side!
Outside of her professional life, Tory dedicates her time to two children, Payton and Charleigh. When they're not attending Payton's baseball practice or games, you'll catch them swimming or enjoying Miami Dolphins and Chicago Cubs games at home.
Aria Procko | Lead Client Service Representative
Aria's lifelong passion for animals has guided her towards a career in the animal industry. Prior to joining the veterinary field, she spent over four years in the dog training sector, specializing in basic obedience and behavioral modification. Aria has cultivated a lifestyle defined by love and devotion, tending to her mini-farm of animals.
During her free hours, she takes joy in training Athena, her German Shepherd, in agility and fascinating tricks to keep herself engaged. Aria's weekends are filled with hikes and quality time spent in her yard with her chickens. It's clear that Aria is right where she belongs!
Taylor Harrelson | Lead Veterinary Technician
With over a decade of experience in the veterinary field, Taylor can't envision herself pursuing any other career than aiding her patients and community. Her expertise spans general practice medicine, shelter medicine, and high-volume surgery clinics. She has generously volunteered at spay/neuter clinics in New Mexico, Carriacou (Grenada, Caribbean), and Florida.
Taylor and her boyfriend reside on a tranquil five-acre property, nestled in a remote area, where they care for their Pitbull mixes: Sully (featured above), Tallulah, and Bosley, in addition to five cats. In her leisure time, Taylor delights in country western line dancing and attending concerts. Notably, she is a rare native Floridian!
Haleigh | Veterinary Technician
Haleigh has been immersed in the veterinary field since 2020, driven by a lifelong passion for animals. Alongside her studies towards a degree in veterinary technology, she shares her home with a dog and two cats, fostering a deep connection with her furry companions.
As a Florida native, Haleigh enjoys exploring parks and indulging in paddle boarding, particularly in the natural springs that Florida boasts. Thrilled to be part of the Lakewood Ranch team, she looks forward to meeting the fantastic pet owners and their beloved animals.
Nilsa | Veterinary Technician
Nilsa holds an associate's degree in Veterinary Technology from the University of Turabo in Ponce, Puerto Rico. With a career spanning since 2015, she began as an intern working with both farm and small animals, later gaining experience at a zoo in Puerto Rico. Her expertise extends to pet sitting and dog walking.
Nilsa is happily married and shares her life with two wonderful dogs, Brandy (10 years old) and Ed (a special 2-year-old), as well as a Guinea Pig named Netflix (6 years old). During her leisure time, Nilsa indulges in her passion for books and reading, enjoys playing video games, engages in crafts, and cherishes moments spent with her small family and friends.
Serena Tovar | Veterinary Assistant
Serena recently entered the veterinary field and is eager to continue her learning and progress in the industry. She finds fulfillment in assisting animals and witnessing the happiness of pet owners when their companions are at their best.
At home, Serena cares for two furry friends and has aspirations to pursue further education to advance her career in the field.
Madeline Kwan | Veterinary Assistant
Madeline is currently pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian by attending the University of Florida, where she is working toward an undergraduate degree in Animal Science and Biology. She is also gaining valuable experience working at the Animal Hospital at Lakewood Ranch.
Madeline has four beloved dogs: three long-haired Chihuahuas and one French Bulldog. In her free time, she enjoys various water-related activities, with scuba diving being her favorite.
Terry Lebon | Kennel Technician
Terry has been a valued member of our Animal Hospital of Lakewood Ranch team since 2016. Terry serves as our versatile kennel technician, adept at a wide range of tasks-- she is a jack of all trades.
You can count on Terry to remember your name and extend a warm, family-like welcome. Terry's responsibilities encompass bathing, assisting with grooming, cleaning, boarding, and many other essential duties.
Nicole Cooper | Kennel Technician
Born and raised in New York, Nicole has called Florida home since August 2001, following her family. With over 45 years of experience living with dogs, cats, and an Amazon Parrot, she's truly an animal lover at heart.
Nicole's professional journey in animal care began in 2010 as a "Live-In" Pet Sitter. Over the years, she has pursued various certifications, including Veterinary Assistant, Laser Therapy Technician, and Canine Massage Therapist. Always wearing a smile, Nicole is the go-to person for caring for and loving your fur family members.
At home, Nicole enjoys spending quality time with her family and her beloved pets. During any free moments, you'll find her re-reading Jane Austen novels or continuing her adventures as a world traveler, a passion she's pursued since 1994.
Paola Delunas | Kennel Technician
Paola, originally from Italy, moved to the United States in 2018 to pursue her dreams. Now in college on the pre-veterinary medicine track, she is excited about the prospect of attending veterinary school after graduation.
Multilingual and fluent in four languages, Paola loves spending her free time walking, capturing beautiful moments through photography, and playing beach volleyball. She is passionate about exploring the veterinary field and is eager to learn and experience new things.
Sophia Mendez-Rosario | Kennel Technician
Sophia has always had a deep love for animals and has made sure they are well cared for since she can remember. Her passion led her to join our team at AHLR as a kennel technician. Sophia takes great pride in her responsibilities, which include assisting with boarding, grooming, and cleaning. She treats every pet who walks through our doors as if they were her own, ensuring they are loved and well-cared for until they are reunited with their families.
When she's not at work, Sophia is caring for her own pets: 9-year-old Hazel (featured here) and her 4-month-old Indian Ringneck parrot, Pablo. Sophia aspires to further her education in the veterinary field.
Alivia Glover | Experienced Pet Groomer
Alivia brings 12+ years of dedicated experience in the art of pet grooming and has become an established professional in the field. She specializes in enhancing not only the appearance but also the well-being of both cats and dogs.
Alivia's passion for animals extends to particular expertise in geriatric and rescue pets, where patience, compassion, and skill are paramount. Throughout her career, she has had the opportunity to truly hone her pet grooming craft. She prides herself in fostering a stress-free environment that nurtures the unique needs of each beloved pet.
"I am committed to providing exceptional care, ensuring every pet leaves feeling rejuvenated and looking their best."