Paula Sotomayor Rodriguez, DVM

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Growing up in my beautiful home country, Puerto Rico, animals were always by my side. From the multiple dogs and cats in our house, the birds, lizards and frogs that made themselves comfortable in the backyard, all the way to the spectacular marine life that was just a short car ride away at the beach, being next to animals has made me feel safe and happy. I remember taking one of my childhood dogs, Loba, to the vet with my parents and being in awe of how amazing it must be to work with animals all day and take care of them. There was not a job that could surpass the level of coolness that veterinarians had! The doctor showed me how to use the microscope during that visit and, needless to say, my life was changed. I was still in elementary school at the time, but I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. The remainder of my very long educational career was spent trying to become like one of those awesome vets I had met.

After studying Animal Science at the University of Puerto Rico, I started my veterinary training at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine on the island of Saint Kitts where I also pursued research in conservation medicine studying hawksbill sea turtles while I was completing my veterinary degree. Some of my fondest memories on the island are tied to those long days at the beach identifying hatched sea turtle nests.

Finally, I moved to the states to complete my clinical year of veterinary school at the University of Florida. This is where I realized that, more than anything, I long for the veterinary/client/patient connection that small animal general practice provides. I want to be able to see my patients grow and be the person that makes sure they remain as healthy as possible throughout their long, happy lives.

After graduation,I decided to remain in Gainesville to experience the magic that this wonderful community provides. When I am not working, I am often at home reading a book or crocheting in my hammock, or out somewhere on a walk or a hike. My favorite place in this world is the beach, so sometimes on the weekends I do escape and try to find new spots along the coastline to go for a swim and see interesting and awesome wildlife!

I could not love a place of business any more than I do Jonesville Animal Hospital. Both veterinarians are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and loving towards the animals. The staff has some of the friendliest people I've met, and their professionalism is top-notch. The facility is large, clean, and modern, and the extended hours are fantastic for working professionals. Thank you for being so great to our dog, Charlie!

- Amy

Dr. Vliet and Dr. Lerman are awesome! When one of my dogs was afraid of going to the vet, they worked with me to make her visits as stress-free as possible. They go out of their way to make every visit great and the facility is clean and inviting. They know me by name when I come to buy dog food and always offer to bring it to the car for me if I have my two young daughters with me.

- Christopher

I have had the privilege of having Dr. Lerman taking care of our animals for over 20 years.  The compassion, knowledge and attention to detail displayed in the variety of situations we have experienced is truly amazing and appreciated. It is so evident that everyone associated with Jonesville Animal Hospital has a true love of providing quality care for animals.

- Bob

The staff at Jonesville Animal Hospital is always exceptional! Our beloved Border Collie, Mysti, was a patient there for 10 years, and we always felt as if they loved her as much as we did. Even after her passing they sent our family the most heart felt, loving message to console us. We think the world of the entire team! Now our new puppy, Boo, will enjoy their loving care too.

- Gina

The Doctors and Staff at Jonesville Animal Hospital are top-notch. They stayed late, performed emergency surgeries after "normal" business hours, and made sure to call and update me of their status even though it was 9PM at night. I feel like they treat each pet as if it were their own, and always have the best interest of the pet in mind.

- Heather

Jonesville Animal Hospital is simply the best! Our dogs have been patients at Jonesville Animal Hospital ever since it was first opened by Dr. Vliet and Dr. Lerman. They have cared for our whippet and our two greyhounds. The expert care, knowledge, and compassion shown to us by Drs. Vliet and Lerman and their entire team is outstanding. It is obvious that they love our dogs. 

- Rita

I have entrusted the care of my three dogs to Drs. Vliet and Lerman for about 10 years and am so pleased with their practice.  I like that I've never had to deal with a waiting room full of animals; they check every patient in quickly and get them into exam rooms to avoid any "doggy personality differences!" Their support staff always make my dogs feel welcomed, non-threatened and their favorite patients of all time! 

- Sherri

The wonderful care provided to our three cats, at Jonesville Animal Hospital, makes me wish that they were my health care providers! Dr. Vliet and Dr. Lerman have given our cats exceptional care at every visit. They've helped us navigate behavior issues and patiently saw us to a resolution. These fine vets have put together an incredible staff, all of whom adore animals! I cannot say enough about JAH, and highly recommend them!

- Shirley

I recently moved to the Gainesville area, and I was thrilled to discover Jonesville Animal Hospital. My 10-year-old Lab suffers from a few health problems and I wanted to find a top-notch local vet for her. Jonesville Animal Hospital has more than exceeded my expectations. This is by far the best service I've ever received from a veterinary hospital.

- Amy