Dr. Bernal grew up in South Florida where her love of animals flourished. She graduated from University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in animal biology and with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. While at University of Florida, she received additional education and training in zoo and exotic animal medicine. After graduating, she moved to Tucson, Arizona, for an internship in general practice, emergency and zoo medicine at VCA Valley Animal Hospital. To gain additional experienced and knowledge she moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, for a zoo and exotic animal internship at University of Tennessee. While at her last internship, she worked for the Knoxville Zoo, Tiger Haven, and within the university. Her last move across the country has brought her here to VCA Mission Animal and Bird Hospital.

Dr. Bernal and her husband have four rambunctious but loving cats and as well as some poison dart frogs. She enjoys working out, hiking and spending time out on the ocean either sailing or paddle boarding. Dr. Bernal looks forward to exploring all the San Diego area has to offer and continuing to bring her knowledge and experience of zoo and exotic animal medicine to VCA Mission Animal and Bird Hospital.