Business Details
29 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Veterinarian in Avon Park, FL
Saunders Veterinary Services has been dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care in Avon Park, FL, since 1997. Founded by Dr. Saunders, a graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, our practice emphasizes compassionate service and high-quality medical care. After retiring, Dr. Saunders entrusted the practice to Dr. Abbe DeGroat, who continues our legacy of client-focused veterinary medicine. Our team prioritizes building personalized relationships with pets and their families, offering wellness plans, diagnostics, surgery, and advanced treatments. We stay at the forefront of veterinary science to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Our staff is trained in Fear Free techniques to reduce pet stress during visits.With over two decades of experience, we remain committed to fostering trust, transparency, and long-term partnerships with our clients. Every service we provide, from routine check-ups to chronic disease management, reflects our mission to enhance pets' lives and support informed pet ownership. Our practice combines cutting-edge technology with a warm, welcoming environment, ensuring every visitor feels valued. We appreciate the communitys trust in our expertise, as demonstrated by our positive client testimonials. As we continue this journey, we remain steadfast in our dedication to veterinary excellence and the well-being of every animal we serve.
Services
Wellness Care
Surgical Services
Diagnostic Services
Online Store
Advanced Services
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine.
- Our team is trained in Fear Free techniques to reduce pet stress.
- We offer a full range of services from wellness to advanced care.
- Personalized client/doctor/pet relationships are our priority.
- Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools for accurate results.
What people say
Friendly and professional
Best vet we've had
Treated my puppy well
Highly recommend
Amazing staff
Services
Wellness Care
Our wellness program focuses on lifelong health for pets through routine check-ups, vaccinations, and nutritional guidance. Annual wellness visits allow us to build relationships with pets and owners while monitoring health changes. Services include preventive health assessments, senior care, and parasite control to ensure early detection of potential issues. We emphasize creating customized diet and exercise plans to enhance pets' quality of life.
Surgical Services
We provide comprehensive surgical care with a focus on patient safety and pain management. Our team performs spay/neuter procedures, dental surgeries, and laceration repairs using modern techniques. Pre- and post-operative monitoring ensures optimal recovery while maintaining comfort. Advanced surgical practices combined with compassionate care help pets return to health quickly. We prioritize clear communication about surgical plans and home care requirements.
Diagnostic Services
Our in-house lab and imaging capabilities enable rapid diagnosis of health conditions. Digital radiography and ultrasound technology provide detailed internal images with minimal radiation exposure. We also offer specialized lab testing through trusted partners for comprehensive diagnostic evaluations. Timely results allow immediate treatment planning while maintaining accuracy. Our equipment supports early detection and effective management of complex medical issues.
Advanced Services
We offer innovative therapies like laser treatment for pain management and accelerated healing. Chronic disease management programs address conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease through tailored care plans. End-of-life services provide compassionate support for difficult decisions. Our Fear Free-certified staff ensures stress-free visits while maintaining treatment effectiveness. These advanced options demonstrate our commitment to comprehensive, progressive veterinary care.
Online Store
Our online store provides convenient access to prescription medications and veterinary-approved pet products. We offer shipping directly to homes with options for special diet orders. The store features therapeutic foods for weight management, dental care, and allergy relief. Prescription medication refills can be processed quickly through our system. This service ensures pets maintain consistent care between office visits without travel requirements.
People
Dr. Abbe DeGroat
Veterinarian
Dr. DeGroat graduated from the University of Florida with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2011 after completing a large animal internship at the University of Georgia. She brings extensive experience in both private and shelter medicine to our practice. Born in the Northeast, she moved to Florida in 1999 and lives on a farm with her family and various animals. Her leadership continues our tradition of compassionate, high-quality veterinary care.
Meghann
Practice Manager
Meghann joined our team in 2019, transitioning to Practice Manager in 2023 after prior roles in client relations and tech assistance. A Highlands County native, she has 13 years of service industry experience and brings a warm, outgoing personality to her leadership role. She balances her work with family life as a mother of one and caretaker of multiple pets. Her management approach prioritizes client satisfaction and team collaboration.
Jennifer
Certified Veterinary Technician
Jennifer transitioned from the food industry to veterinary medicine in 2004, earning certification from St. Petersburg College. She combines clinical expertise with a passion for educating pet owners about proper animal care. Originally from Pennsylvania, she's built her career in Florida while pursuing advanced veterinary technology education. Her experience with Golden Retrievers fuels her dedication to compassionate animal healthcare and client communication.
Laura
Client Relations
Laura has served our practice since 2000, bringing AA degree training from South Florida State College to her client relations role. A lifelong Highlands County resident, she excels at creating welcoming experiences for all visitors while balancing family commitments. Her kindness and attention to detail make her an integral part of our front-desk operations. She shares her home with a fun-loving boxer named Gilly.
Madison Bush
Customer Service Representative
Madison joined our team in 2023, quickly becoming a standout CSR through her genuine care for animals and owners. Originally inspired by her family's lawn care business, she brings fresh energy to veterinary customer service. She lives with her fianc and family while enjoying outdoor adventures on the lake with her basset hound Hazel. Her enthusiasm reflects our practice's future-focused approach to pet care.
Questions
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call 863-453-5700 or use our online appointment request form.
What services do you offer?
Wellness care, diagnostics, surgery, advanced therapies, and online store products.
Are emergency services available?
We recommend contacting local emergency clinics listed on our website for urgent care.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payment options are available at checkout for services and online orders.
Do you offer Fear Free appointments?
Yes, our staff is trained in Fear Free techniques to reduce pet stress.
Can I order pet supplies online?
Yes, our online store ships prescription diets and pet products directly to you.
