Meet Our Team

Dr. Carley Distasio

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Carley Distasio was born and raised in Orlando, FL. She attended St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, FL for her undergraduate studies. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 2019. War Eagle! She strives to provide quality care for her patients and to develop long lasting relationships with her clients. In her free time, she enjoys reading, attending church, and exploring Central Florida. She values spending quality time with her husband (who is also a veterinarian), three year old son, and two dogs.

Dr. Laura Shafer

Seasonal Veterinarian

Dr. Laura Shafer was a veterinarian for over 30 years. She owned her own practice with her husband and daughter called Vestal Animal Hospital in New York. She is now seasonal and is with the practice for a few months out of the year before returning to her summer house in Maine. She has two dogs Figment and Dory.

Dr. Max Smith (Dr. Max)

Seasonal Veterinarian

Dr. Max was born in Kankakee Illinois. He attended The University of Illinois in Champaign Illinois from 1972-1979 completing undergraduate and DVM degrees. Upon graduation he moved to Evansville Indiana and practiced there for 43 years until relocating to The Villages, FL. He is married to his wife Julie of 44 years. His daughter Katie is also a DVM and son Kevin that is an MD (internal medicine). He is seen here with his pet Annie. They love the Florida sunshine but are only here seasonally.

Dr. Jon Smith

Relief Veterinarian

Bio coming soon!

Lisa Wilson

Technician & Office Manager

Lisa’s loves animals. At work, or at home she is always doing something to improve the lives of pet patients and pet owners alike. She has been in the field since 1998. Graduating from high school and college (yes… at the same time!) for veterinary assisting. She obtained an AS in Health sciences (Human related) before returning to her much-loved veterinary field. She gained her skills after working hands on, with exotic animals, companion animals, working in animal emergency and specialty practices mostly in central Florida area. She feels truly blessed to be a part of such a great team animal care team. She is a mom of one son Emory. She has a few rescued pets that include two small yorkies, a German pincher, an Australian Kelpie mix, along with coonhound/shepherd mix. She also has three cats.

Barbara Hutter

Client Service Representative

Most people will notice Barbra is a true New yorker. She moved to Florida to escape the snow and be near family. She has one dog named Bella. She loves working hard as a veterinary receptionist.