Maria Gonzales D.V.M.
“Veterinary medicine combines my interest in science and medicine with my passion for caring for animals. I find it a challenge to diagnose and treat patients who can’t speak for themselves and tell us what’s going on, on top of the fact that every patient is unique. I enjoy working with owners to give the best care I can for their pets.”
DVM: Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
BSC: Biology, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, TX
Member: American Veterinary Medical Association, American Animal Hospital Association, American Association of Feline Practitioners, Texas Veterinary Medical Association, Veterinary Medical Association of Bexar County.
Heather Wright D.V.M.
“I like working with animals and their owners to help keep everyone healthy and happy. There is never a boring day! I love the variety of veterinary medicine: dermatology, ophthalmology, surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, dentistry and acupuncture, to name a few. Pets’ owners are fun to be around, and the stories are great.”
DVM: Texas A & M University, College Station, TX Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
BA: Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX
Member: International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, American Veterinary Medical Association, American Animal Hospital Association, Texas Veterinary Medical Association, Veterinary Medical Association of Bexar County.
Holly Pappas D.V.M.
"At the age of 8, my family got an amazing boxer puppy that I named Rocky. I went with my father to the first puppy visit at the vet and after that visit, I proudly told my dad that I wanted to be a veterinarian The older I got, nothing changed; and in 2002 I was able to realize that dream. My style in the practice of veterinary medicine tends to be extremely organized, efficient, and thorough. I like to work hard and give my best to my patients and clients. I enjoy communicating clearly with clients as we work together together as a team to determine what is the best next step for their pets."
DVM: The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (2002)
BSC: Animal Science, summa cum laude, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (1998)
Member: American Veterinary Medical Association
Dr. Pappas has practiced veterinary medicine in Illinois and Texas. In her free time, she likes to read, travel, dance and work out. Most weekends she can be found at the drop zone jumping out of perfectly good airplanes. Dr. Pappas has two cats, an orange and white named Braveheart and a tortoiseshell named Mullen.
Erin Porter D.V.M.
“Animals have always been a big part of my life, and I cannot imagine any greater job than being a veterinarian. I love being able to give pets a voice and to help with providing them a healthy life. I believe that pets are family members, and I really enjoy the human-animal bond and caring for animals as if they were my own.”
DVM: Ross University, St. Kitts, West Indies
BSC: Psychology, Texas A&M, College Station, TX
Member: American Veterinary Medical Association, Texas Veterinary Medical Association, Veterinary Medical Association of Bexar County.
Tracey (Hospital Manager)
With over 18 years of experience, Tracey is currently acting facility manager of Pets First. She has had a love of animals since childhood and currently has 3 of her own dogs as well as 3 grand dogs. Her empathy for both animals and their owners is fueled by a genuine concern demonstrated by personally caring for numerous fosters, as well as involvement with rescue organizations. Happily married with two grown children, Tracey strives to help make Pets First family oriented, while maintaining one of the most professional clinics in San Antonio.Technicians
Elisa C. Garcia, LVT (Technician Supervisor)
Elisa is one of our dedicated technicians who joined our practice in 2003. She has been working in the veterinary field for more than 10 years. She earned her technician’s degree from Palo Alto College in San Antonio in 2005. Elisa mostly enjoys working in surgery and caring for hospitalized patients. As a veterinary nurse, she makes sure your pet gets the best medical attention and all the hugs and kisses they will allow her to give. When she is not taking care of your four-legged companions, she spends her time relaxing at home with her husband and her adopted Dachshund/Terrier mix NuttZ.
Crystal
Crystal is a compassionate Veterinary Technician who joined Pets First Veterinary Center in 1998. Her main focus is dentistry, and finds dental cleanings to be very rewarding for herself and her patients. She is also a big advocate of microchipping pets to make sure they return home if they become lost. She carries her love of animals home to her her two cats Judge Willis and Knox. Personally, she enjoys spending quality time with her spouse of 14 years and her 10 year old daughter. In her off time she also enjoys traveling with her family to beach destinations.
Denise
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Denise has been a part of the Pet’s First team since 2009 and is one of our most dedicated technicians. She has been working in veterinary medicine for 15 years and has no intentions of leaving the profession. As our OHSA safety officer, Denise insures that all of her fellow employees are safe and follow all safety protocols. She also has a special love for cats and enjoys spending time with her 3 kitty fur babies at home.
James
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James started at Pets First in August of 2017 and has been working in the veterinary field since 2008. He really enjoys the customer service part of his job because he gets to meet all kinds of pet owners. James a has a strong background in exotic medicine, especially working with birds and reptiles. He is the proud owner of a Leopard Gecko named Basil that he says is a huge Dallas Cowboys fan. James is currently finishing his Bachelor's degree in Communication at UTSA and enjoys video editing and building websites.
Client Services Representative:
Gabby
Gabby is one of the first friendly faces you see when you walk into Pets First Veterinary Center. She has been working here since the summer of 2012 and she absolutely loves it. Gabby has been working as a client service representative in the veterinary field since May of 2007. Throughout this time she has had the opportunity to learn a little more hands on. At one time she was attending school for her nursing degree, and she does hope to go back soon to pursue her degree in the medical field. For now she has found her calling in caring for animals. She enjoys working with the four-legged friends that come here to visit and making sure that our clients and patients receive only the best care and service. Her family includes 3 loving children. At this time she does not have any pets, but that is what keeps her coming to work every day, to enjoy all of yours.
Kennel Staff
Beata
Beata joined Pets First Veterinary Center in 2005. She is originally from Poland but she has lived in San Antonio since 2003.Beata is currently pursuing her masters in Healthcare Management at Texas A&M University. She grew up having animals and has always had a heart for animals in need. Beata found her passion working with animals. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family, friends and her dog Martini.
Ernest
Ernest has been working at Pets First Veterinary Center since October of 2005. He loves animals. Ernest has a special heart for taking care of our clients' loved ones. He is a huge super hero fan and collects classic TV series. Ernest is a fun Texas guy who just enjoys life.
Louis
Louis has been working with Pet’s First Veterinary Center since late September of 2016. He is originally from Houston but moved to San Antonio 6 years ago for work and to pursue his passion in music. In his younger days, Louis spent most of his time on his grandmother’s farm where he became comfortable being around all types of animals. Other than having a soft spot for animals, he has a big heart for his 3 daughters. In his spare time he enjoys drawing and singing.