Tampa Palms

Why did you choose to become a veterinarian? Did anyone inspire you?

I decided to pursue a career as a veterinarian at a young age, having been surrounded by veterinary medicine my whole life. I grew up watching my father practice as a small animal veterinarian and began working with him at Tampa Palms Animal Hospital in middle school. I enjoyed the science and problem solving of medicine, but was most inspired by the opportunity to help both animals and the people who love them. 

What is your goal walking into every patient visit?

It is my goal to establish a sincere connection with each patient and their owner. I am passionate about educating owners so they can feel confident about the decisions we make together for the health of their pet.

Do you have a mantra or philosophy that you live by?

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.

Who makes up your family (pets and/or people)?

My husband, Matthew, and our three dogs; Audrey, Margot, and Caroline.

We are expecting our first child in August.

Where is your hometown?

Lutz, Florida

What do your pets mean to you?

My pets are an integral part of our family that bring so much joy and emotional support. I cannot imagine a life for myself not surrounded by at least a few animal family members!

Dr. Garcia is from Valencia, Spain and attended the School of Veterinary Medicine at St. George’s University. He joined our practice in 2017 because he wanted to “work in a progressive practice”.  His goals are to continue learning and becoming a better veterinarian every day. His dream is to own his own practice someday. He lives with his wife and two children. Dr. Garcia’s hobbies include sports, movies, music, family, and food.

Se habla español

Dr. Borderieux was born in Cincinnati OH and grew up in Tampa (Leto H.S. class of ’93) and joined our practice in January 2007. She received her B.S. in biology from Florida State University before acquiring her DVM (magna cum laude) from University of Florida in 2003. Dr. Borderieux practiced small animal and exotic medicine for 4 years in California before moving back home to be closer to her family. Her medical interests are in internal medicine, soft tissue surgery, oncology and exotic mammal and avian medicine. Her special interests is in rabbit medicine and surgery.

Dr. Borderieux has adopted rescue rabbits for over 15 years (starting as a foster with Gainesville Rabbit Rescue in vet school). She shares her home with her husband, Scott, her son, Jay, and her daughter, Phoebe. Her fuzzy family includes Briar, a pointer/border collie mix, her rabbits, Ariana, Jilly, and Lotte, and her guinea pigs, Coral, Garnet, and Ruby. During her free time she enjoys hiking, yoga, reading, and bird watching.

Chelsea is our Assistant Manager here at Temple Terrace Animal Hospital. She has been a member of our team since 2016 and became a Certified Veterinary Technician in 2020.

When she is not working, she loves to travel and explore new places with her husband. She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her 2 Jack Russel Terriers.