Meet Our Highland Square Family Vet Team
Lakeland’s Finest Veterinary Care
Meet our Highland Square vets and hospital staff.
Click each photo to learn more about our team.
Megan Boda
Practice Manager
James B.
Veterinary Technician
Brittney
Veterinary Technician
Diane
Michelle H.
Customer Service Representative
Amy R. Lofton
Veterinary Assistant
Madi
Veterinary Assistant
Mercedes
Veterinary Assistant
Dr. Marsh
A graduate of Ross University and Oklahoma State University, Dr. Marsh has been in private practice for 28 years and has a special interest in canine and feline behavior, chronic pain management, and soft tissue surgery. She enjoys traveling with her husband and her two Pomeranians, Karl Lagerfeld, and Ziggy Smalls.
Dr. Ronald A. Bell
DVM, Senior Associate Veterinarian
As a young teen, I was always fascinated with animals and knew I wanted to work with them in my chosen profession. I had dogs, cats, ducks, raccoons, a rescued white-tailed deer, and a bobcat as pets. Frank was the name of my English pointer bird dog, and blue was the name of my redbone hound, and they were my best friends in my teen years. The bonds we shared with these pets were one of the compelling reasons I became a veterinarian. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology from the University of Florida in 1986. I went on to work for the Florida Game and Fish Commission on the endangered Florida panther project in the everglades before I entered the University of Florida Veterinary Medicine program. I obtained my Doctor of veterinary medicine degree in 1991. I am proud of my 3 children and was blessed to have married my high school sweetheart Tammy. I have one cat named lily and one dog named JB. I enjoy reading, boating, photography, hiking, spending time with my family, and any activity in the great outdoors! I pride myself on practicing high-quality medicine that emphasizes compassion and paying attention to the fine details. I feel honored when clients choose my team to care for their beloved pets. A strong emphasis is placed on client education and preventative measures, and the human-pet bond is paramount.
Dr. Desbien
DVM
Dr. Desbiens has been practicing for over 10 years with a focus on both small animals and exotics. Specializing in birds, reptiles, and other pocket pets, her focus is the utmost care of all your animal family members. Dr. Desbiens obtained her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of South Florida and is a graduate of the University of Tennessee’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Keeping her busy at home is her (noisy) basset hound Ollivander, doodle Molly, cat Weasley, and tortoise Diggory. Outside of work she enjoys traveling and Disney weekends with her husband and daughter.
Dr. Mercak
Dr. Mercak is a proud graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a passion for providing exceptional care. With special interests in surgery and internal medicine, she’s dedicated to helping your pets live their happiest and healthiest lives. While Dr. Mercak loves working with all small animals, she has a soft spot for cats. At home, she cares for her retired clinic cat and a few other feisty felines! When she’s not at the clinic, Dr. Mercak enjoys hiking, staying active, cooking healthy meals, trips to Disney and traveling near and far.
Megan Boda
With 16 years of experience in the veterinary industry, serves as the Practice Manager at Highland Square Family Vet. She prides herself in her problem-solving skills, ensuring staff satisfaction, and prioritizing exceptional patient care. Outside of work, Megan enjoys staying active through workouts, soaking up nature’s beauty on the water, and indulging in her love for live music at concerts.
James B.
I have had a love for animals all my life. When I moved to Florida the job I was waiting for was no longer available. I saw a sign for a kennel tech and my love for animals began to flourish. I can’t see myself doing anything else. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren, reading a good book, and cooking BBQ.
Brittney
Veterinary Technician
Brittney has been a dedicated veterinary technician for 10 years, providing compassionate and skilled care to her patients. A Penn Foster graduate, she excels at gentle restraint and staying calm in even the most hectic situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of every pet she handles. She is also passionate about client education, helping pet owners make informed decisions to improve their pets’ lives.
Outside of work, Brittney loves spending time with her kids, often visiting parks to enjoy the outdoors together.
Diane
I grew up on a family farm, and we had many animals. I loved helping care for them and carried that love of animals throughout my adult life. Completed my high school diploma and furthered my career at a VoTech school for Medical Assisting & Phlebotomy. I have worked in the medical field since I was 16 yrs old and have found the most rewarding work in the veterinary field. Nothing compares to the tail wag or kiss on the face you receive from our patients. I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three fur babies. I enjoy my daily walks with my Boston Terrier, Marshall, and sitting on my patio with my kitties Harley and Hayley.
Michelle H.
I have always wanted to become a vet, but that never happened. I haven’t been working here long, but I love it. I love all animals! I love interacting with the furry babies and learning a lot from them. I got my GED when I turned 50, and in the future, I would love to become a vet tech to be more hands-on help. Because I love animals, walking my dogs and playing ball with them is one of my favorite activities while outside work. I also enjoy gardening and walking the Circle Bee Reserve.
Amy R. Lofton
An experienced Veterinary Assistant with 17 years in the industry, prioritizes compassionate care and advocacy for the voiceless in veterinary medicine. At home, she shares her life with Biggz, a loyal pit bull, and Penny, a delightful beagle mix, who bring joy to her family. Beyond work, Amy is a proud mother to two athletic children, often found cheering at their games alongside her beloved dogs.
Madi
Madi enjoys keeping patients calm and fear free during their visits. For pets, she has a pit mix named Turbo. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her son.
Mercedes Garcia
Bio Coming Soon!
Veterinary Philosophy
We work hard to be Lakeland’s leading animal care provider. That means outfitting our clinic with cutting-edge technology and hiring smart, caring people to bring the furry members of your family the best care possible.
Local, loving care for your dog or cat in Lakeland.
At Highland Square Family Vet, you and your companion are our top priority. From same day vet appointments to unhurried face time with your veterinarian, we care for the details just as we care for your pet. We thrive on wagging tails and smiling faces and treat every pet like one of our own. After all, your family is part of our family.
“Everyone was great from scheduling to check out. My cats were treated with love and care. And, it was a stress free experience. I highly recommend this practice.”
—Karen T.
Elyse Maurer
Vet Technician Assistant
Brittney
Veterinary Technician
Molly
Veterinary Assistant
Mercedes Garcia
Veterinary Assistant
Madi
Vet Assistant
Megan Boda
Practice Manager
Lauren Spires
Veterinary Assistant
with 4 years of experience, initially started as a Customer Service Representative and worked her way up. Graduating from Earl J Lennard High School, she prides herself on providing compassionate care to animals and continuously learning to better serve their needs. At home, she shares her life with Precious, a 14-year-old pitty mix, and Suki, a 3-year-old cat, enjoying outdoor adventures with her canine companion and embracing new experiences beyond work.
Sara
Veterinary Technician
I have a BA in Wildlife and Fisheries Management and have been a veterinary technician since 2016. My love for animals has allowed me to intern at multiple raptor rehabilitation centers and travel to South Africa while obtaining my degree. Before I joined Highland Square, I worked in shelter medicine.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my two dogs. I enjoy food, exploring the community, and tending to my garden and fishpond.
Amy R. Lofton
Veterinary Assistant
An experienced Veterinary Assistant with 17 years in the industry, prioritizes compassionate care and advocacy for the voiceless in veterinary medicine. At home, she shares her life with Biggz, a loyal pit bull, and Penny, a delightful beagle mix, who bring joy to her family. Beyond work, Amy is a proud mother to two athletic children, often found cheering at their games alongside her beloved dogs.
Lindsay Barone
Veterinary Assistant
With nearly a decade of experience in the industry. Graduating high school in 2014, her journey began with a kennel job, fueling her passion for animal care. Currently enrolled in the veterinary technician program at Penn Foster, Lindsay prides herself on advocating for the voiceless and treats every patient with the utmost care, while at home, she enjoys the company of her three beloved cats and indulges in trying new foods, watching TV, working out, and spending quality time with her fiancé.
Dr. Mercak
DVM
Dr. Mercak is a proud graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a passion for providing exceptional care. With special interests in surgery and internal medicine, she’s dedicated to helping your pets live their happiest and healthiest lives. While Dr. Mercak loves working with all small animals, she has a soft spot for cats. At home, she cares for her retired clinic cat and a few other feisty felines! When she’s not at the clinic, Dr. Mercak enjoys hiking, staying active, cooking healthy meals, trips to Disney and traveling near and far.
Dr. Marsh
Managing DVM
A graduate of Ross University and Oklahoma State University, Dr. Marsh has been in private practice for 28 years and has a special interest in canine and feline behavior, chronic pain management, and soft tissue surgery. She enjoys traveling with her husband and her two Pomeranians, Karl Lagerfeld, and Ziggy Smalls.
Dr. Desbien
DVM
Dr. Desbiens has been practicing for over 10 years with a focus on both small animals and exotics. Specializing in birds, reptiles, and other pocket pets, her focus is the utmost care of all your animal family members. Dr. Desbiens obtained her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of South Florida and is a graduate of the University of Tennessee’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Keeping her busy at home is her (noisy) basset hound Ollivander, doodle Molly, cat Weasley, and tortoise Diggory. Outside of work she enjoys traveling and Disney weekends with her husband and daughter.
Dr. Ronald A. Bell
DVM, Senior Associate Veterinarian
As a young teen, I was always fascinated with animals and knew I wanted to work with them in my chosen profession. I had dogs, cats, ducks, raccoons, a rescued white-tailed deer, and a bobcat as pets. Frank was the name of my English pointer bird dog, and blue was the name of my redbone hound, and they were my best friends in my teen years. The bonds we shared with these pets were one of the compelling reasons I became a veterinarian. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology from the University of Florida in 1986. I went on to work for the Florida Game and Fish Commission on the endangered Florida panther project in the everglades before I entered the University of Florida Veterinary Medicine program. I obtained my Doctor of veterinary medicine degree in 1991. I am proud of my 3 children and was blessed to have married my high school sweetheart Tammy. I have one cat named lily and one dog named JB. I enjoy reading, boating, photography, hiking, spending time with my family, and any activity in the great outdoors! I pride myself on practicing high-quality medicine that emphasizes compassion and paying attention to the fine details. I feel honored when clients choose my team to care for their beloved pets. A strong emphasis is placed on client education and preventative measures, and the human-pet bond is paramount.
Diane
Client Services Representative
I grew up on a family farm, and we had many animals. I loved helping care for them and carried that love of animals throughout my adult life. Completed my high school diploma and furthered my career at a VoTech school for Medical Assisting & Phlebotomy. I have worked in the medical field since I was 16 yrs old and have found the most rewarding work in the veterinary field. Nothing compares to the tail wag or kiss on the face you receive from our patients. I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three fur babies. I enjoy my daily walks with my Boston Terrier, Marshall, and sitting on my patio with my kitties Harley and Hayley.
Andrea B.
Client Service Representative/ Veterinary Technician
Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, animals became my first love. Now I am Mom to a Himalayan named Kai and a Pekingese named Posie. I attended classes at Polk State College. I wanted to dedicate my days to caring for the sick, injured, and aging pets with a special place in my heart. I enjoy reading. Also, I enjoy cooking and sharing good food with great family and friends.
James B.
Veterinary Technician
I have had a love for animals all my life. When I moved to Florida the job I was waiting for was no longer available. I saw a sign for a kennel tech and my love for animals began to flourish. I can’t see myself doing anything else. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren, reading a good book, and cooking BBQ.
Michelle H.
Customer Service Representative
I have always wanted to become a vet, but that never happened. I haven’t been working here long, but I love it. I love all animals! I love interacting with the furry babies and learning a lot from them. I got my GED when I turned 50, and in the future, I would love to become a vet tech to be more hands-on help. Because I love animals, walking my dogs and playing ball with them is one of my favorite activities while outside work. I also enjoy gardening and walking the Circle Bee Reserve.