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Staff Veterinarian
 Charlie Chuacuco, DVM.
I am a graduate of the University of the Philippines -College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 1999. I have special interests in the fields of dermatology, preventative medicine and pain management among many other aspects of veterinary medicine.
Communication is the cornerstone of good compliance, so please feel free to ask us any questions that may pertain to your pet’s health and well being.
We look forward to taking on the responsibility of providing for the best care, and managing the welfare of your four-legged friends and family members.
Hospital Manager
 Erica Rigsby
I have had a love for animals for as long as I can remember! As a kid, I was able to watch our dog, Puff, give birth to 4 puppies. What an amazing experience to have at 8 years old! I knew that my entire life would involve animals in some form from that moment on! Although I grew up in South Carolina, I have lived in many different places over the last 10 years. I began working as a kennel technician in Colorado about 7 years ago and fell in love! My background since has been primarily with small animals as a receptionist, technician and now a manager. Outside of working with Val-U-Vet I am very involved with a non-profit organization that focuses on helping families spay and neuter their animals in hopes of decreasing the population of unwanted pets. I have a ‘trap and release’ program that I facilitate in my community for feral cats. That constantly keeps me on my toes! My dog, Smooch, is my 6 year old mutt and the joy of my life! One of her favorite activities is going on boat rides and playing in the ocean!
Receptionist
 Karen Wetherhold
My name is Karen. I have been in the animal field for about 12 years starting with large animals and moving to small animals. I have been a receptionist for 6 of those 12 years. I have 4 dogs, 1 rat, and 1 ferret. My goal is to continue my career in the animal industry and someday be able to train service dogs.
Veterinary Technicians
 Victoria Hovarter
My name is Victoria, but everyone calls me Vicki. I have worked for Val-U-Vet since 9/28/08. I have been in the veterinary field for 5 years now. I currently have 3 pets. Oscar is the baby. He is a 15 month old miniature dachshund. Then there is Squash who is 5 years old and the trouble maker of the group! She was a stray who was found in the engine of a car with her abdomen sliced open. Henry is the old man of the group. He is a lazy black cat who was also rescued. I can’t imagine my life without my babies. I have had many other pets in my life ranging from hamsters, rabbits, horses and cows. Although I love working for Val-U-Vet, horses are my true passion! My goal one day is to open a large animal practice/rescue of my own.
 Lisa Backer
My name is Lisa Backer. I have worked for Val-U-Vet since December. I have been working as a technician for about 2 years now. I am currently a full time student at Seminole Community College majoring in Biology. I just finished up my freshman year this month! My parents have 5 birds and I love them all dearly. We have Alf, a cockatiel, Raptor, a Sun Conure, Pebbles, a Senegal Parrot, Alex, an African Gray and Portia, a blue and gold Macaw. My parents also have a cat that I grew up with who’s name is Tigger. Since I am now in my own apartment I have my own baby boy, Crash. He is such a wonderful kitty! My hopes are to become a veterinarian and possibly work in the zoo. I love animals with all my heart and enjoy watching them become the best they can be.
 Elaine Kaufman
Hello, my name is Elaine. I’m originally from New Jersey, but I’ve been here in Orlando since 1993. I am Sanford’s newest employee. I have been working with small animals for 6 years. I took a year off to have a wonderful baby boy who just turned 1 year old in August. I’m married to a great guy and we have two rescue dogs. Bailey is a 9 year old Shepherd mix and Harley, who is my second baby, is a 7 year old Boxer mix. I enjoy 4-wheeling, playing with my son, going to the movies with friends, and just about anything outdoors is fine with me! I have a huge passion for animals and really enjoy helping in any way I can.
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