Our Veterinarians
Manuel J. Pepen DVM, DABVP – Veterinarian
Dr. Manuel Pepen is a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, board certified canine and feline practice. He earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Universidad Santo Domingo and is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, The American Association of Feline Practitioners, and the Veterinary Emergency Critical Care Society. Internal medicine is of special interest to Dr. Pepen.
Dr. Pepen and his wife Linda have two sons, Daniel and David. They share their household with three dogs, a cat, a Macaw and several saltwater fish. He enjoys surfing and playing classical guitar in his spare time.
Daniel James Pepen, DVM - Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Daniel James Pepen has worked as a veterinarian at Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital since 2010. His passion for animals, however, began much earlier in life. Dr. Pepen still recalls the childhood inspiration that made him begin to pursue veterinary medicine as a career.
"I remember seeing my father helping both people and their pets when I was younger," he says. "That strongly inspired me to become a veterinarian."
Dr. Pepen attended the University of Florida as an undergraduate, earning his degree in Animal Biology. He went on to complete his doctorate in veterinary medicine from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2010. Before completing his studies, Dr. Pepen gained valuable experience working as a veterinary assistant at Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital, and as a veterinary technician at the University of Florida Veterinary Hospital.
Dr. Pepen's favorite aspect of being a veterinarian is utilizing problem-solving skills on a daily basis to help a variety of animals and their owners. His professional interests include internal medicine and surgery. Dr. Pepen is a member and former president of the Brevard County Veterinary Medical Association. He is also a member of the Florida Veterinary Medical Association.
When he's not at our animal hospital, Dr. Pepen enjoys spending his free time surfing, reading, and traveling. He and his wife Danielle are also the proud pet parents to a cockatiel named Eduardita, two Lionhead rabbits named Jordy and Alanna, and three dogs named Whoadie, Maliah, and Sophia.
Danielle Becton, DVM, CCRT, CVA - Associate Veterinarian
Growing up in Jacksonville, Dr. Danielle Becton knew she wanted to become a veterinarian since she was a child. Her family kept various pets, including dogs, cats, horses, snakes, mice, and other reptiles, which spurred her interest in animal care.
Dr. Becton graduated cum laude and with honors from the University of Florida, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Animal Biology. She attended the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2010. She joined Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital as an Associate Veterinarian in 2012.
Dr. Becton is a certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) and certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA). She is a member of the Brevard County Veterinary Medical Association, the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, and the Association of Rehabilitation Practitioners. Her veterinary interests include internal medicine, physical rehabilitation therapy, and integrative medicine.
Dr. Becton most enjoys "seeing patients leave (her) care looking and feeling better than when they came in." In the past, she has volunteered at a local animal shelter to socialize new intakes and worked with a pet therapy program.
At home Dr. Becton is a pet parent to several animals: Maliah, a Boxer; Sophia, a toy Poodle; Whoadie, a terrier; Jordy and Alana, rabbits; and Eduardita, a Cockatiel. Her free time is spent doing yoga, surfing, attending art festivals, and traveling.
Kristina Kenney Archer, DVM - Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Kristina Archer can remember having a strong affinity for animals since childhood and recalls an instinctual desire to help others. At the age of eleven, she was convinced becoming a veterinarian was a great path in life to follow. Throughout high school she helped volunteer her time at the Wake County SPCA and worked in small animal hospitals. It was in April of 2019 that Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital was proud to welcome Dr. Archer to our veterinary staff, and she has been helping serve our amazing community ever since.
Dr. Archer graduated from North Carolina State University for both her undergraduate education and to obtain her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. She has received numerous awards and scholarships including the 2013 Friends of the NCVMA Award and the Kenan Memorial Scholarship. Dr. Archer is also a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Some of her professional interests include surgery, ultrasounds, and patient care.
“As a veterinarian, being able to help make someone or a pet have a brighter day is incredibly satisfying,” Dr. Archer says. “It is tremendously rewarding knowing how to maintain and or better the health of a cherished family pet.”
Away from the hospital Dr. Archer enjoys doing Crossfit and staying active by playing basketball or going for hikes. She also loves going to the movies, eating a meal with her family, and going to church. Dr. Archer regularly enjoys attending church with her husband, J.R., in Palm Bay and participating in their annual mission trip to the Philippines. During their trips they teach animal husbandry and agriculture. Dr. Archer owns one domestic long haired cat named Hannah and aspires to find a Boston Terrier in the near future.
Dr. Rebecca Smith, ABVP Resident (Canine-Feline Practice) - Associate Veterinarian
In June of 2019 Dr. Rebecca Smith was welcomed to Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital as one of our outstanding Associate Veterinarians. One of the aspects of veterinary care that Dr. Smith finds most satisfying is being able to preserve the human-animal bond. She deeply cares about her role in both our clients’ and patients’ lives and is always striving to administer the best veterinary care. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, and holds professional interests in emergency medicine, general practice, and exotic animal treatments. Dr. Smith is currently in her first year of ABVP residency completing her program here at Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital.
Dr. Smith received her undergraduate diploma from Texas A&M University with a B.S. & M.S. in Biomedical Sciences and Literature. She obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Oklahoma State University in 2019 and has loved being a practicing veterinary ever since!
“Being a veterinarian is something I’ve wanted my entire life,” Dr. Smith proclaims. “It’s very difficult to pinpoint one particular event that really motivated me, but I’ve had pets die and that made me work harder towards achieving my goals.”
Outside of work, Dr. Smith likes to explore new places. She enjoys staying active by swimming, but also loves to stay home with a good book or to watch some TV. Dr. Smith’s hobbies also include crocheting, cross-stitching, cooking, and baking. She also loves sharing her home with a Blue Heeler mix named Houdini, a Lab named Dallas, and a domestic short hair cat named Cora.
Dr. Michael James Mclaughlin, DVM - Associate Veterinarian
Growing up in Cocoa Beach, Florida, Dr. McLaughlin was inspired by his father and grandfather who were both physicians, to pursue a career in medicine. Before becoming a veterinarian, he was a veterinarian technician here at Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital and interned at the Mote Marine Aquarium where he worked with sharks and aquaculture. He graduated with a degree in marine biology from the University of South Florida in 2012 and earned his doctorate of veterinary medicine from the Ross University School of Vet Medicine in 2020. Dr. McLaughlin’s professional veterinary interests include exotics and medicine. Outside of the hospital, he is a member of the Florida Veterinary Medical Association. At home, Dr. McLaughlin has a black lab mix named Bruce, a coconut retriever mix named Elsworth, and an African Grey parrot named Zulu. During his free time, he enjoys surfing, fishing, and playing soccer.
Dr. Claire Vani, DVM - Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Claire Vani is passionate about improving the health and wellness of all animals in her community. She joined our team as a full-time Associate Veterinarian in July of 2020, and brings us her expertise in pet nutrition, internal medicine, and diagnostic radiology.
Dr. Vani is originally from St. Louis Missouri and has been dedicated to caring for animals since discovering her passion for veterinary care during her undergraduate degree. She was working to become a Marine Biologist and was seeking a more hands-on way to care for animals in her community. She decided to pursue veterinary medicine and has been improving the lives of animals ever since!
Claire graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a BS in Biology in 2015 with high honors and received the President's Award. She then graduated from University of Missouri Veterinary School in 2020 and received the Lucy B. Davis Award in small animal surgery. She was also an inductee of the veterinary honor society Phi Zeta and has spent time volunteering at a cat shelter as well as working as a Veterinary Assistant.
"I love solving the puzzle and giving a voice to patients who can't speak for themselves," says Dr. Vani. "It's so gratifying to problem-solve and improve pet and human lives at the same time."
At home, Claire has two cats of her very own, Moe and Tiberius. Moe is a black & white domestic shorthair who is nicknamed "Mr. Balogurt" and Tiberius is an orange tabby nicknamed "Mr. Beans". In her free time, Claire enjoys backpacking, scuba diving, crossfit, reading Harry Potter, and going to Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure. She also loves watching her favorite show, the Office.
Dr. Lissette López, ABVP Resident (Canine-Feline Practice) - Associate Veterinarian
Lisette López Santiago learned her love of animals from a young age. Growing up in Puerto Rico, her father would introduce her to a wide variety of animals that inspired her desire to pursue veterinary care. Dr. López Santiago has a special interest in soft-tissue surgery, clinical pathology, and endoscopy. She joined our team on June 1st, 2021. Dr. López Santiago graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology from Universidad de Puerto Rico in 2015, then went on to graduate from vet school at the University of Missouri in 2020. While in school, Dr. López Santiago received the Needles Brooker Scholarship for her compassion, generosity, and as a tribute to the human animal bond.
Professionally Dr. López Santiago is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association. She is passionate about veterinary care because she truly cares to make a difference in a client's day. Her fondness for animals drives her career even today. Previously, Dr. López Santiago has worked as a Vet Tech at an Animal Emergency Clinic in Puerto Rico. She is the proud pet parent to Lucy, a Chihuahua mix, and Mochi, a Lovebird. In her free time she enjoys sewing, snorkeling, fishing, learning French, and spending time with her fiancé, Miguel.
Dr. Rachael Hill, DVM, ABVP Resident (Avian Practice) - Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Rachael Hill joined the Aloha Pet & Bird Hospital in July of 2021 as an Associate Veterinarian. Dr Hill is originally from Carrollton, Texas, and from a young age knew she wanted to be a veterinarian. Zoological and exotic medicine, internal medicine, and surgery are all of special interest to Dr. Hill.
“I really enjoy the puzzle of figuring out what is wrong with creatures who cannot speak for themselves. Pets are members of the family and when they are sick, it often has the same emotional effect on someone as a sick child or a grandparent. Being able to help calm fears, alleviate pain, and hopefully return smiles makes my heart happy,” says Dr. Hill.
Dr. Hill attended William Woods University for her undergraduate degree in Equestrian Science. She went on to the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated in 2020. For the 8 years between her undergrad and vet school she worked training hunter/jumper horses, teaching riding lessons, managing several different barns, and traveling to horse shows across the country. She also worked as a veterinary assistant in several different hospitals and worked part time as a groomer. After graduating veterinary school, she completed a one-year internship at Weems and Stephens Equine Hospital, an equine specialty referral hospital in North Texas.
Dr. Hill is a member of many veterinary organizations including the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association, the International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine, the Society for Marine Mammalogy, the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners. She also licensed to treat pets in the states of Florida, Texas, and Missouri.
At home, Dr. Hill is a pet parent to a Great Dane named Freya and a Bearded Dragon named Birdy. In her free time, she enjoys riding horses, scuba diving, going to the beach, and spending time with her dog. She also has a passion for decorating and interior design.
Dr. Christine Trottier, DVM - Associate Veterinarian
Growing up in Melbourne, FL, Dr. Christine Trottier received an undergraduate degree in Biology in 2016 from the University of Central Florida. She then graduated from Ross University of Veterinary Medicine in 2019. She completed an exotic specialty internship and a small animal internship. She has a special interest in zoological/exotic medicine and internal medicine. Dr. Trottier joined our team in September of 2023.
Dr. Trottier is a member of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, the World Aquatic Veterinary Medicine Association, International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine, Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians, Association of Reptile & Amphibian Veterinarians, and American Veterinary Medical Association.
In her free time, Dr. Trottier loves tennis, kite surfing, swimming, and reading. She has a domestic short-haired cat named Luna.
Dr. Claudia B. Gonzalez Miranda, DVM - Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Claudia B. Gonzalez Miranda joined our veterinary hospital on August 5th, 2024, bringing her expertise and passion for animal care to our team. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Michigan State University in 2022 and completed her undergraduate studies in Biology at Florida International University in 2017.
Growing up in Cuba and Florida, Dr. Gonzalez Miranda was inspired to pursue veterinary medicine by her family. Her career journey began with hands-on experience at Miami Dade Animal Services, the Humane Society of Greater Miami, and Gomara Animal Clinic. These experiences fueled her dedication to veterinary science and her commitment to improving animal health.
Dr. Gonzalez Miranda's professional interests lie in Internal Medicine, Dentistry, and Soft Tissue Surgery (STS). She is an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, staying updated on the latest advancements in veterinary care.
One of the most rewarding aspects of her role is the blend of scientific inquiry and critical thinking involved in medicine, along with the opportunity to connect deeply with people and their pets.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Gonzalez Miranda enjoys reading mystery novels, hiking, crocheting, and learning new languages. She shares her home with several beloved pets: Martin, a 12-year-old male Labrador Mix; Lily, a 9-year-old male Maine Coon Mix; Nimbus, a 3-year-old male Russian Tabby Mix; Gnocchi, a 1.5-year-old female Tabby; and James, a 1.5-year-old male Tabby.
Dr. Cody Wertheimer, DVM - Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Cody Sean Wertheimer joined our team as an Associate Veterinarian in September 2024. With a passion for emergency and critical care, internal medicine, and soft tissue surgery, Dr. Wertheimer brings a commitment to helping animals in their time of need. He is a proud member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, British Veterinary Association, and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, reflecting his dedication to staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine.
At this stage of his career, Dr. Wertheimer finds the most satisfaction in the opportunity to continuously learn and grow. Each case he encounters presents a new challenge, and he takes pride in developing his skills and expanding his knowledge with every patient he treats. His love for veterinary medicine is driven by his desire to discover and master new techniques, ensuring that he provides the best care possible for his patients.
Dr. Wertheimer earned his undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Georgia in 2020 before pursuing his veterinary education at the prestigious Royal Veterinary College (University of London), where he graduated in 2024. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, he was always surrounded by pets, which helped him develop a deep appreciation for the unique bond between humans and animals. This lifelong connection inspired him to pursue a career where he could help others build and strengthen these meaningful relationships. By promoting the health and well-being of pets, Dr. Wertheimer hopes to enable others to experience the same joy and companionship that he has cherished throughout his life.
At home, Dr. Wertheimer enjoys spending time with his Labrador Retriever, Reggie, who shares his love for the outdoors. In his free time, you'll find Dr. Wertheimer hiking, swimming, climbing, and camping—anything that allows him to explore nature with his loyal companion by his side. Whether he's working in the clinic or adventuring outdoors, Dr. Wertheimer is always eager to take on new challenges and continue making a positive impact in the lives of pets and their owners.