Dr. Gerardo R. Vela, was born and raised in Laredo, Texas. Growing up working on ranches with dogs, cattle, and horses among other species, he developed a deep love and appreciation for animals and nature. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 2015, he returned to Laredo to work on a cattle ranch. In the fall of 2016 he moved to Houston, Texas, and began a career with the Texas Department of Agriculture, most of which was spent as the Livestock Export Facility Operator at George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH). While working there, he partnered with USDA APHIS veterinarians to inspect and facilitate the international shipment of livestock out of Texas. In addition to working full time, he pursued online graduate coursework through a Masters of Science in Medical Microbiology and Biochemistry program by the University of Florida. In the summer of 2020, Dr. Vela moved to Tucson, Arizona following his acceptance into the inaugural class at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Vela joined our team in October 2025 and has been a perfect fit! We are so happy to have him on our team.