Meet the Team
Dr. Fernando Garcia-Pereira DVM, MS, DACVAA
Veterinarian
Veterinarian for over 20 years; completed two clinical internships, veterinary anesthesia residency and master of sciences in veterinary clinical sciences. Professor of two major veterinary colleges (Michigan State University and University of Florida) for 14 years combined, teaching veterinary students, conducting clinical anesthesia and performing anesthesia, analgesia and physiology related research. Main research focuses were ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia, cardiorespiratory and pain physiology and effects of anesthetics in these systems.
Dr. Lauren Spendley
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Lauren Spendley grew up in New Hampshire and obtained her undergraduate degree in Animal Sciences from the University of Vermont. She received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida in 2023. While there, she was involved with Operation Catnip and helped to spay and neuter hundreds of community cats in the Gainesville area!
She also served as the school’s delegate to the student chapter of the AVMA and acted at the SAVMA Editor-in-Chief. Her special interests include soft tissue surgery, managing cats with urethral blockages, and exotics, especially bunnies! She has four cats and a leopard tortoise! In addition to her ability to treat live animals, she is pretty good at making balloon ones as well.
Dr. Marisa Curro
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Marisa Curro joined Pet Urgent Response and Emergency as an Associate Veterinarian in December 2024. Originally from Maryland, she relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, in the fall of 2024 to continue her career in veterinary medicine and emergency care.
Dr. Curro earned her veterinary degree from St. George’s University and completed her clinical year at the Royal Veterinary College in London before graduating in 2022. Her passion for animals began at a young age when she started riding horses at six years old, an experience that sparked a lifelong commitment to animal health and well-being.
She is particularly passionate about helping animals live healthier, happier lives and providing compassionate care during times when pets and their families need it most. Dr. Curro also enjoys educating pet owners about their pets’ health, empowering them to make informed decisions and play an active role in their companions’ care.
Dr. Curro knew she had found the right profession when she began working in emergency medicine. The fast-paced environment, critical thinking, and opportunity to make a meaningful difference during some of the most challenging moments for pets and their families confirmed her passion for veterinary medicine.
Her professional interests include emergency surgery, client education, and preventive medicine. She is dedicated to delivering high-quality care in critical situations while helping pet owners better understand and support their pets’ health.
Outside of work, Dr. Curro enjoys traveling and experiencing new cultures, practicing yoga, and spending quality time with her beloved beagle, friends, and family.
Mrs. Stacy Hicks
Practice Manager
Hi, I’m Stacy Hicks, the Practice Manager here at Pet Urgent Response and Emergency (PURE). I’ve been with PURE since we opened in May 2023, and I’m proud to be part of a team that’s dedicated to helping pets and their families when they need it most.
I’ve always had a love for animals, and I’ve worked in just about every role in veterinary medicine from kennel tech to Practice Manager. That experience has given me a real appreciation for what every team member brings to the table, and I believe in leading by example. I’m dedicated to being a great leader and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. You’ll often find me jumping in to help wherever I’m needed no job is too small!
Outside of work, I’m a wife, mom to four great kids, and dog mom to two amazing pups: Koko-nuts, a goofy Boxer mix, and Floyd, my high-energy Doberman who always keeps me on my toes. With over 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine, I’ve learned a lot, but I’m always picking up something new it’s one of the things I love about this field.
I’m grateful to be part of the PURE family and look forward to helping make a difference in the lives of pets and their people!