I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian at a relatively young age. From the early years of elementary school, I needed to have a goal, a reason, for going to school. There was not only an established love of animals, but also a deep-seeded fascination of medicine and science.

Certainly, there was an established desire to make a difference in the well being of people's pets and to assist in the duration of the human- animal bond. This passion only grew with time.

Today in veterinary medicine, we are blessed to be surrounded with a plethora of information (referring to fact, not heresy or anecdotal evidence) on any number of topics. The use of computers, in addition to a growing number of specialists in a myriad of disciplines, has enabled us to share practical, vital information in an instant. The rapid technological advancements are staggering. These developments, in combination with a top notch staff with a shared passion for the health our little family members make every day a fascinating journey.

All of these factors only add to the excitement of being a veterinarian. We work as a team and are here to provide assistance in helping our little companions have the best quality of life available.

My childhood dream became a reality in 1988 when, after completing my undergraduate studies, I attained my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Mississippi State University. During my veterinary training, I received the Mississippi Veterinary Association Graduate Award for Excellence in Companion Animal Medicine and the Upjohn Award for Proficiency in Veterinary Clinical Medicine.

Shortly after graduation, I was chosen as a result of a massive selection process to participate in an internship in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery in the San Francisco Bay area. Before relocating to South Florida to join the VCA Wiles Road Animal Hospital, I practiced veterinary medicine for three years in San Francisco. In addition to small animal medicine and surgery, I have a special interest in avian and exotic medicine.

Dr. Paula Engle is the Medical Director for VCA Wiles Road Animal Hospital and is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Animal Hospital Association and the Association of Avian Veterinarians. In her spare time, she enjoys swimming, exercising and sports.