About Us | Hearts for PAWS

Core Values

Commitment - we are dedicated to advancing animal welfare.

Teamwork - we work together to achieve the best outcomes for pets and their humans.

Compassion - we provide fear free care to all of our patients to reduce their fear anxiety and stress.

Progress - we are always learning, growing, and improving to provide the best care for animals and our community.

Meet the Founders

Jose R Lopez LVT, CVT

Jose has dedicated more than 15 years to the shelter and animal-welfare field, building a career centered around compassion, community service, and accessible veterinary care. His journey began in New York City, where he worked with the ASPCA’s spay/neuter program, including their mobile surgical units that traveled throughout the five boroughs. It was there that Jose discovered his deep passion for shelter medicine and saw firsthand the impact that affordable, community-focused veterinary services can make.

Working on mobile spay/neuter trucks introduced him to the heart of the city — families, rescue groups, and pet owners who wanted the best for their animals but often lacked access to care. Those experiences shaped Jose’s belief that veterinary services should be within reach for every pet, not just those who can afford traditional costs.

Jose’s commitment to helping underserved animals and supporting the rescue community is the driving force behind the creation of Hearts for Paws Veterinary Services. His vision is simple but powerful: provide high-quality, compassionate care while removing financial barriers that keep pets from getting the help they need. His background, passion, and leadership continue to guide the mission and spirit of Hearts for Paws every day.

Erika P Lopez LVT

Erika has spent more than 10 years in the veterinary field, building her career on compassion, skill, and a genuine dedication to patient care. Most of her experience comes from working in general practice, where she developed a strong foundation as a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Her greatest passion during those years was forming lasting relationships with clients and ensuring every patient received the highest level of care and comfort. Her work in New York City shaped her as both a caregiver and advocate for animals and their families.

After moving to Florida, Erika was introduced to the world of shelter medicine—and it changed everything. She quickly realized how different, meaningful, and profoundly rewarding this branch of veterinary care could be. Seeing the impact that accessible, community-focused veterinary services can make inspired a new sense of purpose in her career.

Today, Erika is proud to dedicate her future to shelter medicine, where her technical expertise, compassion, and commitment to animals can make a tangible difference. Her journey from general practice to nonprofit veterinary work has become a defining part of who she is, and her passion continues to help shape the mission of Hearts for Paws Veterinary Services.

Meet our Veterinarians

Dr. Naomi Turner

Dr. Fumiko Miyamoto

Meet our Board of Directors

Jessica Orlando, C.P.A.

Kristin Day

Dr. Erica Unz