Biography

Dr. Lawrence “Larry” Garcia, MS, DVM, is a Clinical Associate Professor and serves as the Medical Director of the Veterinary Emergency Treatment Service (VETS) Team at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. With a diverse background in general practice, shelter medicine, and emergency response, Dr. Garcia brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the fields of veterinary disaster preparedness and animal sheltering.
As Medical Director of the UF VETS Team, Dr. Garcia plays a central role in disaster preparedness and response. He is responsible for developing medical protocols, overseeing medical equipment and pharmaceutical inventory, and providing both leadership and training to team members. His role ensures that the VETS Team remains ready to respond to disasters affecting animal populations throughout Florida and beyond.
A strong advocate for interagency collaboration, Dr. Garcia has worked with the Florida State Agricultural Response Team (SART) on large-scale disaster drills and real-world deployments. His combined experience in shelter medicine, emergency management, and veterinary education make him a vital asset to Florida’s veterinary emergency response infrastructure.