Your pet is family. In their most vulnerable moments, they deserve the specialized care only a criticalist can provide.
At Epic Specialty & Emergency Pet Care, our Critical Care Department is dedicated to providing life-saving support when your pet needs it most. Whether facing a sudden illness, trauma, or complications from an existing condition, our experienced team is equipped to handle emergencies with compassion, precision, and urgency.
Address: 3250 5th Ave. N
St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Hours:
Accepting emergencies 24/7, 365
Scheduled by appointment only:
Internal Medicine
Oncology
Surgery
Critical Care
Phone: (727) 473-3845
Address: 4752 N Dale Mabry Hwy
Tampa, FL 33614
Hours:
Accepting emergencies 24/7, 365
Scheduled by appointment only:
Internal Medicine
Oncology
Phone: (813) 343-2118
Design by
Originally from Ohio, Dr. LoPrinzi discovered her passion for veterinary medicine early on and pursued her undergraduate studies at Asbury University in Kentucky, where she majored in Biology and Equine Studies. She went on to earn her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2021.
Following veterinary school, Dr. LoPrinzi completed an intensive emergency-focused program and has been practicing in emergency in a specialty hospital ever since. She thrives in the dynamic, fast-paced environment of the ER, where every case presents a new challenge and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. She is especially passionate about guiding pet owners through critical moments with empathy, clarity, and care.
Outside of work, Dr. LoPrinzi enjoys spending time with her husband and two beloved dogs: Grizzly, a gentle Newfoundland, and Mila, an energetic Australian Shepherd. Her hobbies include playing tennis, kayaking, board games with friends, beach and pool days, gardening, baking.
Hailing from Long Island, NY, Dr. Frizol earned her DVM from St. George’s University in Grenada, followed by a rotating internship at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island. Since then, she has focused on emergency medicine, with a strong interest in triage and stabilization, from GDVs to respiratory emergencies and more. She moved to Florida in late 2022 and loves soaking up the sun with her husband and their pets: dog Teenie, cats Todd and Kiara, and snake Pickles.
Dr. Brady graduated from the University of Florida in 2021 and has been practicing small animal emergency medicine ever since. She previously earned her bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology (with a minor in Spanish) from USF in 2014. Her interests include radiology, pathophysiology, and caring for critically ill patients. Originally from San Diego, she has called Florida home for the past 15 years. She and her husband live with their pets: Trick the sphynx, Edgar the domestic medium hair cat, and Domino the ball python. In her free time, she enjoys reading, music, relaxing by the pool, and spending time with friends.
Originally from New Jersey, Nicole graduated from Ross University in 2022 and moved to Florida shortly after. She shares her home with two cats—Manny, a cuddly tuxedo, and Dominik, a shy but sweet gray tabby. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new restaurants in the Tampa and St. Pete areas, taking walks, and watching movies. Nicole is thrilled to be part of the EPIC emergency team!
Originally from Kennesaw, Georgia, Dr. Shelnutt earned both her undergraduate and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees from the University of Georgia. She went on to complete her residency training at Michigan State University. Following her residency, Dr. Shelnutt returned to Georgia, where she practiced in a private specialty setting for six years.
Dr. Shelnutt recently relocated to St. Petersburg and is excited to join the team at EPIC Specialty & Emergency Pet Care.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Shelnutt enjoys traveling, running, playing tennis, and spending time with her two energetic dogs—a Labrador and a Great Pyrenees mix.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Dr. Fernandez is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized cancer care for dogs and cats. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from The Ohio State University in 2014, followed by advanced specialty and oncology internships at BluePearl Veterinary Specialists and Louisiana State University. Dr. Fernandez completed her residency in medical oncology and earned a master’s degree at Colorado State University in 2020, one of the nation’s leading programs in veterinary oncology. With a deep commitment to quality of life, Dr. Fernandez focuses on creating tailored treatment plans that support not only her patients but the families who love them. Her clinical interests include both traditional cancer therapies—such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation—and innovative modalities like immunotherapy and electrochemotherapy. Dr. Fernandez believes in the powerful bond shared between pets, their families, and their veterinary team. She strives to build trusting relationships that support pet owners through every step of their journey, offering not just medical expertise, but empathy and understanding. Outside of work, Dr. Fernandez enjoys spending time outdoors—especially paddle boarding, scuba diving, hiking, and competing.
Dr. Joshua Lachowicz is a board-certified medical oncologist. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Virginia Tech and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Lachowicz discovered his passion for oncology during an internship at a private practice in New York, which led to a residency in oncology in Connecticut. With over two decades of experience, he has held clinical roles at the Veterinary Oncology and Hematology Center, Red Bank Animal Hospital, and BluePearl Veterinary Specialists in NYC. He has also served in leadership and operational roles, including Medical Director and Vice President of Medicine at BluePearl, and Vice President of Clinical Operations at United Vet Care.
Dedicated to supporting both pets and their families, Dr. Lachowicz is passionate about increasing access to care and educating others about cancer in pets. He is an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, and the Veterinary Cancer Society. He currently serves on the board of Frankie’s Friends, a nonprofit that supports pets and families in financial need, and is the Founder of the Joshua Louis Animal Cancer Fund, now a program within Frankie’s Friends.
A Virginia native, Dr. Lachowicz enjoys cooking, trying new cuisines, staying active, and spending time outdoors with his family. He is also an avid pianist and singer-songwriter.
Adam is Epic’s IT and Systems Manager who thrives on solving complex problems and optimizing networks. He has over 5 years of experience in starting veterinary and research labs, and is also pursuing his bachelor’s in business at USF St Pete. Outside of work, you’ll find Adam gaming, birdwatching, or rock climbing.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Mairim Gersholowitz is a dedicated veterinary professional with over 12 years of experience in the industry. Her passion lies in strengthening the animal-human bond and helping families restore the health and happiness of their beloved pets. Throughout her career, Mairim has specialized in building and supporting clinical teams, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and optimal environment to provide exceptional care and practice excellent medicine.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Mairim enjoys long walks, traveling, and exploring new interests—most recently, learning Korean to enjoy K-pop shows without subtitles. She cherishes spending quality time with her husband, two children, mom, three dogs, and extended family. Mairim credits her accomplishments to the unwavering support of her loved ones and feels fortunate to be part of an industry and team dedicated to enhancing the lives of pets and their families.
Bio Coming Soon
Bio Coming Soon!
Dr. Siu brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our practice. Dr. Siu earned his combined DVM/MPH degree at Tufts University in 2018. He completed a small animal rotating internship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and then went on to finish a small animal internal medicine residency and Masters of Clinical Science at Colorado State University, obtaining ACVIM diplomate status in 2022. Following his residency, Dr. Siu practiced Small Animal Internal Medicine for several years at a private practice in southern New Jersey. His veterinary interests include, but are not limited to, kidney disease, proteinuria, gastrointestinal disorders, and autoimmune diseases. In his spare time, Dr. Siu enjoys trying new foods, traveling, hiking, watching hockey, going to the gym, and spending time with his partner and his cat, Hato.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Brogan is a surgery/anesthesia nurse at Epic. Her favorite part of her job is getting to bond with the animals and giving treats when able to. Outside of work, Brogan enjoys the beach, thrifting, reading, interior decorating, trying new restaurants, (easy) houseplants, skateboarding alongside her dog, & pickleball. Brogan has a six-year old fluffy mutt named Hudson.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
With over 31 years of experience in veterinary medicine, I serve as the Director of Operations for Epic Specialty and Emergency Pet Care and help ensure excellence in care and service. I also leverage my expertise in purchasing, logistics, management, and contract negotiation to optimize operations. I excel in managing vendor relationships and ensuring seamless service delivery while maintaining a focus on excellence in patient care. Beyond my professional life, I am a proud cat owner, a passionate plant enthusiast, and an avid reader who enjoys crafting in various forms. My dedication to both my career and personal interests reflects a deep love for animals, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Dr. Cathy Meeks earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, Master of Science in Forensic Toxicology, and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine—all from the University of Florida. She became board-certified in Internal Medicine in 2011 and has spent the past 12 years practicing primarily in the Tampa Bay area. Throughout her career, Dr. Meeks has held several leadership positions, most recently serving as Vice President of Medical Operations for Antech Diagnostics.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Meeks enjoys an active lifestyle. She shares her home with two spirited Parson Russell Terriers, Biscuit and Tater Tot, and spends her free time running and enjoying a variety of water sports, including paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming.
Dr. Gerald Curry Keoughan, known as “Dr. Curry,” is an accomplished veterinary surgeon with a career spanning the globe. A graduate of the esteemed Atlantic Veterinary College in Prince Edward Island, Dr. Curry has built an impressive legacy of service, education, and innovation in veterinary medicine.
His professional journey began with a unique opportunity to work for the King of Saudi Arabia, where he honed his skills caring for elite animals over a three-year tenure. Driven by a passion for excellence, Dr. Curry completed a residency in veterinary surgery at the University of Florida, followed by an assistant clinical instructorship at Virginia Tech, further solidifying his expertise.
For nine years, Dr. Curry served as the head surgeon for the Singapore Turf Club, where he gained extensive experience managing the health and performance of elite racing horses. He later transitioned to small animal surgery, completing a fellowship at Blue Pearl in Texas, where he refined his skills in advanced procedures for pets.
Now part of the team at Epic Veterinary Specialty Center, Dr. Curry brings a wealth of knowledge and a global perspective to his new role as a veterinary surgeon. Known for his precision, compassion, and dedication, he is deeply committed to improving the lives of animals and their families.
Dr. Curry’s personal life is as vibrant as his career. A devoted father of four, he shares his home with 10 beloved pets, including four dogs, five cats, and a rabbit. Outside of the operating room, he enjoys sailing, playing golf, and traveling with his family. Dr. Curry’s dynamic career and rich personal life reflect his unwavering passion for animals and adventure.
Dr. Peress is a board-certified veterinary surgeon with over 14 years of experience in the field. He earned his veterinary degree in the Czech Republic and went on to complete a surgical residency at LeadER Animal Specialty Hospital in South Florida. Dr. Peress has a particular passion for minimally invasive surgical techniques and is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care to his patients.
Outside the operating room, Dr. Peress enjoys spending quality time with his wife, their young son, and their lively household of four dogs and two cats. When he’s not working—and the wind is right—you’ll likely find him on the water, kitesurfing.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
With over 23 years of experience in the veterinary field, I’ve dedicated my life to caring for animals of all shapes and sizes. My love for animals extends to my own 20-year-old feline companion, Mr. Schultz, who’s been by my side through thick and thin. Originally from Indiana, I traded cold winters for a warmer climate, embracing a love for adventure that perfectly matches my passion for Jeeps and everything dachshund!
Bio Coming Soon!
With over 31 years of experience in veterinary medicine, I serve as the Director of Operations for Epic Specialty and Emergency Pet Care and help ensure excellence in care and service. I also leverage my expertise in purchasing, logistics, management, and contract negotiation to optimize operations. I excel in managing vendor relationships and ensuring seamless service delivery while maintaining a focus on excellence in patient care. Beyond my professional life, I am a proud cat owner, a passionate plant enthusiast, and an avid reader who enjoys crafting in various forms. My dedication to both my career and personal interests reflects a deep love for animals, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Bio Coming Soon!
Ryann is a CVT on the Internal Medicine team , she has 10 years experience in the veterinary field. Always on the search for how she can contribute more to her team members and patients she is pursuing her VTS in IM. Outside of work, she enjoys working out, spending time with her two sons, and is a foodie traveler.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Brogan is a surgery/anesthesia nurse at Epic. Her favorite part of her job is getting to bond with the animals and giving treats when able to. Outside of work, Brogan enjoys the beach, thrifting, reading, interior decorating, trying new restaurants, (easy) houseplants, skateboarding alongside her dog, & pickleball. Brogan has a six-year old fluffy mutt named Hudson.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Jennifer Daly, DVM, Diplomate, ACVECC, is a Board-certified Specialist in Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care who joined the Epic team soon after its grand opening in 2025.
Dr. Daly graduated with honors from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She then earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, also with honors, from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. Her impressive journey continued with a rotating medicine and surgery internship, a critical care internship, and a critical care residency at Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center.
Dr. Daly has published innovative work on the initial usages of high flow nasal oxygen in dogs and has advanced training in therapies such as hemodialysis, plasma exchange, mononuclear cell collection/reduction, and toxin & cytokine hemoperfusion As Epic expands, Dr. Daly is eager to introduce these cutting-edge therapies to support the pets of the Florida Gulf Coast.
Dr. Daly thrives on caring for pets with intricate multisystem disease processes as part of an elite collaborative team. Outside the hospital, she enjoys paddle boarding, hiking, traveling, and weightlifting, as well as sharing adventures with her husband and their two Dobermans, Ostera and Colt.
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
Bio Coming Soon!
With over 31 years of experience in veterinary medicine, I serve as the Director of Operations for Epic Specialty and Emergency Pet Care and help ensure excellence in care and service. I also leverage my expertise in purchasing, logistics, management, and contract negotiation to optimize operations. I excel in managing vendor relationships and ensuring seamless service delivery while maintaining a focus on excellence in patient care. Beyond my professional life, I am a proud cat owner, a passionate plant enthusiast, and an avid reader who enjoys crafting in various forms. My dedication to both my career and personal interests reflects a deep love for animals, creativity, and lifelong learning.
With her role as a Technician Supervisor at Epic, Heather brings extensive experience to the team. As a seasoned veterinary professional with 35 years of experience in emergency and critical care, she is passionate about mentoring the next generation of technicians. She believes in fostering a supportive learning environment where young professionals can thrive. The “ah-ha” moments – those instances of true understanding and growth – are the most rewarding aspects of her career. She has been married for 31 years, has two sons, and one grandson. She enjoys spending her free time cultivating her garden and exploring new culinary creations.
Mairim Gersholowitz is a dedicated veterinary professional with over 12 years of experience in the industry. Her passion lies in strengthening the animal-human bond and helping families restore the health and happiness of their beloved pets. Throughout her career, Mairim has specialized in building and supporting clinical teams, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and optimal environment to provide exceptional care and practice excellent medicine.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Mairim enjoys long walks, traveling, and exploring new interests—most recently, learning Korean to enjoy K-pop shows without subtitles. She cherishes spending quality time with her husband, two children, mom, three dogs, and extended family. Mairim credits her accomplishments to the unwavering support of her loved ones and feels fortunate to be part of an industry and team dedicated to enhancing the lives of pets and their families.
Ryann is a CVT on the Internal Medicine team , she has 10 years experience in the veterinary field. Always on the search for how she can contribute more to her team members and patients she is pursuing her VTS in IM. Outside of work, she enjoys working out, spending time with her two sons, and is a foodie traveler.
Adam is Epic’s IT and Systems Manager who thrives on solving complex problems and optimizing networks. He has over 5 years of experience in starting veterinary and research labs, and is also pursuing his bachelor’s in business at USF St Pete. Outside of work, you’ll find Adam gaming, birdwatching, or rock climbing.
With over 23 years of experience in the veterinary field, I’ve dedicated my life to caring for animals of all shapes and sizes. My love for animals extends to my own 20-year-old feline companion, Mr. Schultz, who’s been by my side through thick and thin. Originally from Indiana, I traded cold winters for a warmer climate, embracing a love for adventure that perfectly matches my passion for Jeeps and everything dachshund!
Brogan is a marketing coordinator at Epic. Her favorite part of her job is getting to bond with the animals and giving treats when able to. Outside of work, Brogan enjoys the beach, thrifting, reading, interior decorating, trying new restaurants, (easy) houseplants, skateboarding alongside her dog, & pickleball. Brogan has a six-year old fluffy mutt named Hudson.
Dr. Peress is a board-certified Veterinary Surgeon with 14 years of experience in the veterinary field. Dr. Peress received their veterinary degree in the Czech Republic and completed their residency in Surgery at LeadER Animal Hospital in South Florida. He is passionate about minimally invasive surgical techniques and strives to provide the highest quality of care for his patients. Outside of work you will find him spending time with his wife and young son along with their four dogs and two cats. If it’s windy and he’s not working he is in the water kitesurfing.
