Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr Carla Rodrigues.
Hi Dr Carla, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into veterinary medicine was driven by a deep belief that our pets deserve the same advanced care that humans rely on. After earning my DVM at Ross University and specializing in integrative therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and rehab therapy, I noticed a massive gap in how we approach chronic pain, mobility issues, geriatric medicine and post-surgical recovery in companion animals.
I decided to take a leap of faith and open my own practice in Jacksonville , operating as a solo practitioner out of a historic home. I intentionally built the clinic to feel entirely different from a standard, sterile veterinary office. I wanted it to be a peaceful, low-stress haven—a “spa-like” environment where both pets and their owners could immediately relax.That unique atmosphere, combined with an incredible 98%+ patient recovery rate, sparked massive momentum.
Word of mouth spread quickly, and our local veterinary community began trusting me as a regional referral hub. A major milestone for the practice was being honored with the Bold City Community Award, which deeply validated that my quiet, patient-first approach was exactly what pet owners were searching for.
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I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Building a specialized, independent practice outside of the traditional veterinary model comes with distinct challenges. Especially as a niche and unique service.
Ultimately, these roadblocks didn’t slow me down; they they just encouraged more growth.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Pawsitive Healing?
My practice is a premier independent veterinary rehabilitation and integrative medicine clinic serving Northeast Florida. I integrate advanced, non-pharmaceutical pain management and recovery solutions designed to maximize mobility, comfort, and quality of life for companion animals with standard conventional treatment options.
What I Want Readers to Know
I want readers to know that age, arthritis, or a major injury doesn’t mean a pet has run out of options. My goal is to rewrite the script on pet aging and recovery, giving animals the vibrant, pain-free lease on life that they deserve.
What I Do & What I Am Known For
I specialize in cutting-edge, integrative therapies that serve as crucial alternatives or complements to traditional veterinary medicine. My core clinical specialties include:Veterinary Rehabilitation & HydrotherapyVeterinary Chiropractic Care & AcupunctureAdvanced Regenerative Modalities (Class IV Laser, Shockwave Therapy) Geriatric/Senior Medicine & Tailored Herbal Formulations.
I am best known for clinical excellence and
experience, high rate of successful patient improvement and recovery for neurologic conditions such as paralysis/paresis, chronic pain conditions, mobility limitations, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
What Sets Me Apart The Spa-Like Sanctuary: Unlike standard, high-stress animal hospitals, my clinic is recognized for its peaceful, calming, and deeply relaxing atmosphere. Clients frequently describe it as a premium, “spa-like” environment where anxious pets instantly settle.
A True Boutique Experience:
As a solo practitioner, I am able to offer an incredibly personalized style of medicine. Every single patient gets my undivided attention, and I am able to build deep, meaningful relationships with the families who walk through my door.
What I Am Most Proud Of Brand-Wise
I am incredibly proud to have won the Bold City Community Award, a direct reflection of the trust and partnership I have built with regional pet owners and referring veterinarians.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something that might surprise people who only know me in a clinical setting is my deep passion for international travel and immersing myself in different cultures.
I am particularly drawn to exploring old-world regions. My family heritage and history is in Portfugal. I love discovering family-owned properties and vineyards. Experiencing how other cultures embrace a slower, more intentional rhythm of life completely recharges my perspective.
While my day-to-day life is focused on advanced clinical science, my time spent traveling reminds me of the universal value of slowing down and appreciating heritage. It brings a grounded, peaceful energy back with me every time I step back into the clinic.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pawsitivehealingvet.com
- Instagram: pawsitive_healing_vet
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pawsitivehealingvet
