Meet the Team at SJB Animal Care Center
The people who will know your pet by name, often from the very first visit, and who've been part of this practice for years.
Our Veterinarians
Meet the veterinary team in Jacksonville FL behind SJB Animal Care Center — a dedicated group of compassionate veterinarians and care specialists committed to delivering exceptional care for your furry companions. Our experts bring expertise, passion, and personalized attention to ensure the health and happiness of your beloved pets.
Dr. Kirk
Dr. Kirk is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and has been caring for small animals for over 17 years. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami and has experience in both general practice and emergency medicine.
He approaches each case with a balance of clinical experience and practical care, with a focus on helping families feel informed and supported in their pet’s health.
Originally from South Florida, Dr. Kirk enjoys spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and kayaking with his wife, Kelly, and their three children. Their home also includes three cats, two dogs, and two guinea pigs.
Dr. Thivierge
Dr. Thivierge earned his veterinary degree from Ross University in 2004 after completing his undergraduate studies at Auburn University. He has since built his career around compassionate, relationship-centered care for pets and their families.
He is known for his kind, approachable bedside manner and takes great pride in educating clients so they feel confident in the health and well-being of their pets. Dr. Thivierge strongly believes in preventive medicine and the role it plays in helping pets live longer, healthier lives.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Thivierge is an avid outdoorsman with a passion for fishing and conservation, particularly of whitetail deer. He enjoys spending time in nature as well as with his wife and their three children. At home, he shares life with his beloved golden retriever, Nemo.
His steady presence, genuine kindness, and commitment to both pets and their families make him a trusted and respected part of the care we provide.
The Team You'll See Every Time You Walk In
The front desk staff, vet technicians, and groomers at SJB are the people you'll actually interact with most on any given visit. They're the ones who remember your dog's name, know which cat needs a slower approach, and notice when a puppy is nervous about the dryer.
That familiarity isn't accidental. It comes from a team that stays, and from a daily patient count small enough that every team member actually gets to know the animals coming through.
Liz Arflin
Liz has been working in veterinary medicine for seven years and oversees both medical and auxiliary services across SJB and its affiliate hospitals. Her role bridges clinical operations, client experience, and the growth of expanded services including grooming, boarding, and specialty programs.
She is deeply committed to preventive care and helping families make informed decisions for the long-term health of their pets. If asked for her top advice, Liz emphasizes three key things: consistent heartworm prevention, enrolling in pet insurance while pets are young, and establishing annual baseline lab work early so medical changes can be detected quickly and accurately as pets age.
Outside of the hospital, Liz enjoys fishing in the Intracoastal and in the Florida Keys whenever she can find the time. She spends most of her free hours with her son and their four dogs — Charlie the Airedale, Mayday Fluffernickle the Aussiedoodle, and the Yorkie sisters, Clover Butter Bean and Dolly Funplin’ Dumplin’.
Fun fact: despite working in veterinary medicine, Liz is allergic to cats — and several dog breeds — but a steady supply of antihistamines keeps her going.
Parish Staley
Parish has been in veterinary medicine for approximately six to seven years and serves as our Practice Manager. She oversees daily hospital operations, supports team coordination, and ensures that both clients and patients experience a smooth, organized, and welcoming environment.
She is passionate about creating efficient systems while maintaining a positive and supportive workplace culture. Her attention to detail and steady leadership help keep the hospital running seamlessly.
Outside of work, Parish enjoys spending time with her fiancé, Jeremy, and their beloved dog, Moxie. A devoted Boston Red Sox fan, she and Jeremy love traveling to Boston whenever they can to catch a game and explore the city together.
Common Questions About Our Team
Come Meet Us in Person
The best way to get to know this team is to bring your pet in and experience an unrushed appointment for yourself.
