About Us
If you’re here, there’s a good chance you’re concerned about your pet. Maybe something’s changed – fainting, coughing, slowing down – or maybe your primary vet has mentioned a possible heart issue. It’s a confusing moment, and it’s normal to feel uncertain about what comes next.
At Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, we understand how high the stakes feel. You’re not just seeking a diagnosis, you’re also making decisions about your pet’s quality of life; and placing your trust in a team to guide you through it. That trust means everything to us.
Our team brings deep experience, advanced training, and a genuine commitment to care. Every pet we see is evaluated in person by a specialist. Every treatment plan is tailored to your pet’s specific condition, your goals, and what’s realistic for your family.
We don’t believe in rushed answers or one-size-fits-all solutions. We take the time to explain, to listen, and to walk with you—step by step—so you feel informed, supported, and confident in every decision.
Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology offers an ACVIM-approved residency program as well as a cardiology specialty internship program designed to cultivate the next generation of board-certified veterinary cardiologists. Our trainees gain hands-on experience with a diverse caseload, state-of-the-art imaging and interventional technologies, and direct mentorship from experienced ACVIM diplomates. The program emphasizes evidence-based medicine, procedural excellence, and critical thinking – preparing clinicians for both clinical practice and academic leadership in veterinary cardiology.
Meet The Team
Dr. Dewey Carpenter
DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)
Founder & Board-Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
When it comes to your pet’s heart, you want answers you can trust, and a specialist who truly cares. That’s exactly what led Dr. Dewey Carpenter to create Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology.
After serving six years in the U.S. Navy, Dr. Carpenter began his veterinary journey with a dual degree in Biology and Chemistry at Charleston Southern University in 1996. He then earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Mississippi State University in 2000. He completed advanced training in small animal medicine at Auburn University, followed by a residency in Comparative Cardiology at the University of Minnesota. In 2005, he became a board-certified cardiologist through the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Dr. Carpenter’s real focus has always been on the people and pets behind the diagnosis. In 2016, after more than a decade as the sole cardiologist at Coral Springs Animal Hospital, he founded Sawgrass to expand access to specialized cardiac care across Florida – with an emphasis on clarity, compassion, and collaborative care.
Known for his calm approach, clear communication, and unwavering commitment to patient wellbeing, Dr. Carpenter partners closely with families and referring vets to deliver care that’s both medically advanced and deeply personal.
Outside of work, he enjoys time with his wife of over 30 years, their three children, two cats, and three dogs. He also keeps active with scuba diving and training in Northern Seven Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu.
Dr. John Hertzer
DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)
Board Certified Cardiologist
When a pet is facing a heart condition, Dr. John Hertzer is passionate about helping families understand what’s happening and what they can do about it.
Originally from Pittsburgh, Dr. Hertzer completed his undergraduate studies at the University of South Florida before earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida in 2020, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. During vet school, he served as Vice President of the student chapter of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) and began contributing to cardiology research, including a published abstract on the use of intravenous pimobendan.
He completed a rotating internship at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine, where he co-authored multiple publications—including work on how body positioning affects EKG readings when using a Kardia mobile device. He then joined Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology where he completed a one year specialty internship and a three-year residency under the mentorship of Dr. Dewey Carpenter. He achieved board certification with the ACVIM in 2025 at the completion of his residency.
Dr. Hertzer brings curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for client education to every case. He believes that helping pet owners understand their pet’s condition is just as important as making the diagnosis itself.
Outside of the clinic, you’ll find him on the water, at the grill, or watching Gators and Steelers football with friends and family.
Dr. Alexa Cesarek
DVM
Cardiology Resident
When a pet is struggling with heart disease, early intervention and thoughtful care can make all the difference. That’s what drives Dr. Alexa Cesarek’s dedication to veterinary cardiology – and why she’s chosen to focus her career on helping pets live longer, more comfortable lives.
Originally from Houston, Texas, Dr. Cesarek completed her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University before earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Louisiana State University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2023. She went on to complete a small animal rotating internship at the University of Georgia, where she also conducted research into the treatment of congestive heart failure in exotic species. Dr. Cesarek completed a one year cardiology internship at Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology and currently is working on completing a three year residency under the mentorship of Dr. Carpenter and Dr. Hertzer.
Dr. Cesarek is known for her caring demeanor with clients, compassionate and expert care, and giving families the time and clarity they need to feel confident in their next steps.
Outside of the clinic, she enjoys time with her husband and their beloved pets, cheering on SEC sports, exploring new foods, and unwinding with a glass of wine outdoors.
Dr. Jenny Applebaum
DVM
Cardiology Intern
Dr. Jenny Applebaum grew up in Coral Springs, Florida, and earned her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Florida Atlantic University. She went on to receive her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 2023. Following graduation, she completed a small animal rotating internship at Texas A&M University before pursuing a cardiology specialty internship at BluePearl Pet Hospital in Irvine, California. She is currently completing her cardiology specialty internship at Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, with plans to continue her training to become a board-certified veterinary cardiologist.
Throughout her academic and clinical journey, Dr. Applebaum has remained actively engaged in veterinary research. She has presented abstracts at both the National Veterinary Scholars Symposium and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Forum. Her research interests include evaluating digital stethoscope technology for improved murmur detection and exploring CT-based measurements to optimize tracheal stent sizing, among other areas that advance the field of veterinary cardiology.
Beyond her clinical and research accomplishments, Dr. Applebaum is deeply passionate about client communication and strengthening the human–animal bond. She believes that empathy, education, and collaboration are essential to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for every patient and family.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Jenny enjoys spending time outdoors, whether relaxing at the beach in Florida or hiking in the mountains up north. She also loves traveling, spending time with her family, and being with her two beloved cats.
Our Nursing & Client Care Team
Olutokumbo (Toks)
Practice ManagerMore About Toks
Toks brings 15+ years of valuable leadership to the team.
Dewey Carpenter III
Head NurseMore About Dewey
From technician assistant to head nurse, Dewey’s growth reflects Sawgrass’ spirit.
Krystal Saravia
Client Services SupervisorMore About Krys
Calm, reliable leader coordinating schedules, training, and client care at Sawgrass.
Krystal A
Surgery CoordinatorMore About Krystal A
Combining skill and compassion, Krystal delivers exceptional care to every patient.
Carol
Cardiology Outpatient Care NurseMore About Carol
With years of experience, Carol provides calm, confident care to every animal she meets.
Brazil
Nurse Team LeadMore About Brazil
Energetic and compassionate, Brazil brings heart and dedication to her work in cardiology.
Amanda
Cardiology Outpatient Care NurseMore About Amanda
A skilled technician with a warm touch, Amanda brings compassion and care to every patient she meets.
Daynelle Kennedy
Nurse AssistantMore About Daynelle
Dedicated and compassionate, Danyelle is turning her love for animals into a lasting career.
Doris Hatch
Client Services RepresentativeMore About Doris
Compassionate and devoted, Doris brings her lifelong love for animals to every aspect of her work.
Angelina G
Client Services RepresentativeMore About Angelina
Creative and compassionate, Angelina brings warmth and dedication to everything she does at Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology.
Alexa D
Client Services RepresentativeMore About Alexa
Kind-hearted and devoted, Alexa finds joy in caring for animals and building lasting bonds with every patient.
Nikki
Nurse AssistantMore About Nikki
Energetic and caring, Nikki brings warmth, organisation, and genuine compassion to every patient she helps care for.
Andrea F
Reception Team LeadMore About Andrea
Calm and compassionate, Andrea creates a welcoming experience for every pet and family she supports at Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology.
Olutokumbo (Toks)
Olutokumbo “Toks” Adebusuyi is a seasoned professional in veterinary medicine with more than 15 years of dedicated experience. His journey began at Florida A&M University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in Animal Science. He went on to complete a Master of Business Administration at Nova Southeastern University, strengthening his ability to bridge clinical expertise with strategic leadership.
Toks further enhanced his credentials by earning a Certification in Veterinary Practice Management from St. Petersburg College—a qualification that allows him to combine medical knowledge with operational excellence. His unique blend of clinical understanding and business acumen has played a key role in improving the performance and efficiency of the veterinary practices he’s led.
Throughout his career, Toks has remained deeply committed to advancing animal health and welfare. His dedication to continuous learning and his pursuit of the latest developments in veterinary medicine ensure that he continues to deliver innovative, compassionate, and high-quality care to every patient.
Dewey Carpenter III
Dewey “Hamilton” Carpenter III has been surrounded by animals and the field of cardiology his entire life. But it wasn’t until the founding of Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology that he truly immersed himself in the world of veterinary medicine. Starting out as a Technician Assistant, Dewey learned everything on the job—guided by the incredible doctors and teammates he’s had the privilege to work alongside.
Today, as Head of Nursing, he’s passionate about sharing that knowledge and supporting others as they grow in their own roles. While he continues to learn the finer details of leadership, Dewey’s dedication to his team, his patients, and his craft drives him to be the best he can be.
At home, Dewey’s life is filled with love (and fur). He shares his space with three cats and three dogs—three of whom live with heart conditions—giving him a unique perspective and deep empathy when caring for animals with cardiac disease.
When he’s not at the hospital, you’ll likely find Dewey at the movies or playing video games, recharging for another day of doing what he loves most: helping pets live longer, healthier lives.
Krystal Saravia
Krystal “Krys” Saravia is the Client Services Supervisor at Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, where she’s been a dedicated and valued member of the team since October 2022. In her role, Krys manages scheduling for both clients and staff, oversees financial processes, and leads the training and coaching of team members to ensure consistency, efficiency, and exceptional service.
What truly defines Krys is her passion for leadership and her commitment to helping others succeed. She thrives on creating a supportive, high-performing environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to grow. Known for her professionalism, empathy, and reliability, Krys takes pride in fostering strong relationships and ensuring every client interaction reflects the compassion and excellence that Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology stands for.
Outside of work, Krys enjoys spending time with her husband and their two children, Mia and Mason, along with their four dogs—Belle, Luna, Thor, and Rose. She loves exploring new places across Florida, especially hidden local gems near Tampa, cooking, and making memories with family and friends. Whether she’s leading her team through a busy day or discovering a new spot to visit, Krys brings thoughtfulness, energy, and heart to everything she does.
Krystal A
Krystal was born and raised in sunny South Florida and has always had a passion for animal care. She holds a bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine and is a board-certified diagnostic medical sonographer. Before joining Dr. Carpenter’s team in 2020, Krystal spent five years in general practice where she served as Head Nurse and developed a strong foundation in patient care and clinical leadership.
Krystal is known for her dedication, compassion, and steady presence. These qualities make her an integral part of the Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology team. She takes great pride in using her skills to support both pets and their families while ensuring every patient receives the highest level of care.
Outside of work, Krystal enjoys a busy and joy-filled life with her three children, Elaynia, Emmett, and Hunter, and five pets including a Rottweiler named Poseidon, a Pitbull named Molly, two white cats named Ares and Arrows, and a ball python. In her free time, she loves entertaining, spending time with her kids, and traveling with her family to new destinations.
Carol
Carol divides her time between her full-time ICU position and her role with Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology. Her love for animals began early in life, and she always knew she wanted to work in veterinary medicine. Since starting her career in 1988, Carol has gained extensive experience across the field, beginning in a small general practice before advancing into specialty and ICU medicine.
She has focused on cardiology since 2006 and has been working alongside Dr. Carpenter since 2009. Carol takes great pride in her ability to calm anxious patients and help them feel safe and cared for during their visits. Her compassion and steady presence make her a trusted and valued member of the team.
Outside of work, Carol enjoys listening to music, attending concerts, and relaxing at home watching movies with her three cats, Billy, Henry, and Milton.
Brazil
Brazil Scinto has always had a deep love for animals, which inspired her to begin her career in veterinary medicine in 2020 as a Nurse Assistant in an emergency room. Through hard work and dedication, she advanced to the position of Triage Nurse within just two years. Seeking new challenges and opportunities to grow, Brazil went on to work at an exotic animal clinic in Connecticut, where she further developed her skills and broadened her experience.
She now works in the cardiology department, where she continues to expand her knowledge and expertise. Brazil’s compassion, curiosity, and commitment to patient care make her a valued part of the team.
Outside of work, Brazil enjoys spending time with her two pets, Rebel and Parker, who are her pride and joy. She loves surfing, being outdoors, traveling, and sharing time with family and friends. Her passion for both animals and adventure shines through in everything she does.
Amanda
Amanda was born and raised in Florida and has always had a deep love for animals. She began her veterinary career in 2019, working as an assistant in an overnight ICU, where she quickly discovered her passion for patient care. Her dedication and eagerness to learn helped her grow into her dream role as a veterinary technician, known for her compassion and ability to make both patients and their families feel comfortable and cared for.
Amanda joined Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology in July 2024 and is grateful to be part of a supportive and talented team that shares her commitment to excellence. She takes great pride in contributing to the practice’s mission of providing high-quality, compassionate cardiac care.
Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her husband, their daughter, and their Australian Shepherd, Link. She loves exploring new experiences with her family, learning something new each day, and making the most of life’s simple moments.
Daynelle
Danyelle has loved animals for as long as she can remember. After exploring a variety of roles in different fields, she discovered that nothing compares to the fulfillment she feels when caring for animals. Her passion for helping pets and their families inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She is currently enrolled in a program to become a Certified Veterinary Assistant and plans to continue her education to become a Veterinary Nurse.
Outside of work and study, Danyelle enjoys expressing her creativity through tattooing and crocheting. She is excited to keep learning, growing, and turning her lifelong love for animals into a meaningful and lasting career.
Doris Hatch
Doris Hatch was born and raised in New Hampshire before relocating to Florida in 2016. Her lifelong love for animals led her to open United Dog Rescue with her son, creating a safe and caring haven for dogs in need.
In June 2022, Doris joined Dr. Carpenter and his team to deepen her knowledge and gain hands-on experience in a specialized area of veterinary medicine. She feels grateful to be part of such a dedicated and compassionate team that shares her passion for improving the lives of animals. Every day, she takes pride in contributing to a workplace that values learning, teamwork, and care.
Angelina G
Angelina was born in Philadelphia and raised in Media, Pennsylvania, before moving to Florida in 2016. From an early age, she was known for her strong work ethic and her willingness to go the extra mile to help others—whether they walk on two legs or four. Growing up surrounded by dogs, she developed a deep love for animals and dreams of one day owning a small farm filled with a variety of animals to love and care for. For now, she’s perfectly happy spoiling her beloved, fluffy orange cat, Garfield.
Outside of work, Angelina enjoys spending time with her family, especially her baby sister, and often travels back to Pennsylvania to visit loved ones. She’s also highly creative and loves expressing herself through drawing, painting, and jewelry making.
Angelina is proud to be part of her “second family” at Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology and feels grateful to work alongside such a compassionate and dedicated team that shares her passion for helping animals.
Alexa D
Alexa grew up in Florida with a lifelong love for animals, inspired by the many pets she cared for throughout her childhood. She began her journey by helping family and friends care for their pets, later gaining experience with a pet sitting company, a dog daycare, and eventually in veterinary clinics. Since entering the veterinary field in September 2024, Alexa has enjoyed every opportunity to build meaningful bonds with pets and their families.
Driven by her compassion for animals, Alexa hopes to one day open a no-kill shelter dedicated to giving stray animals a second chance at a happy life. At home, she loves spending time with her three dogs—Riley, Smokey, and Callie—and her cat, Chevelle, who keep her busy and bring her endless joy.
Nikki
Nikki is a dedicated Nurse Assistant who’s passionate about creating a positive, supportive experience for every pet and their family. Behind the scenes, she thrives on keeping things organised and running smoothly, ensuring every patient receives the care, attention, and love they deserve.
Known among her teammates for her energy, compassion, and ever-present smile, Nikki brings warmth and positivity to every shift. Outside of work, she loves recharging at the beach or spending quality time with her two dogs, Kiki and Jasper. Caring for animals and uplifting those around her is what Nikki loves most — both inside and outside the clinic.
Andrea F.
Andrea is a Client Service Representative at Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, where her lifelong love for animals continues to grow each day. Since beginning her career in the veterinary field in 2019, she’s become known for her calm, caring nature and her ability to make every client feel at ease. Andrea understands that veterinary visits can be stressful, and she’s dedicated to creating a warm, supportive experience for both pets and their families from start to finish.
Outside of work, Andrea enjoys cooking and baking new recipes for her boyfriend — her favourite taste tester — as well as painting mini figurines and getting lost in a good book. At home, she’s happily kept company by her dog, Gunner, and her cat, Yuno, who continually remind her why she loves what she does.