Sylvia Zapien-Garcia, D.V.M.

I am a 1990 graduate of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California at Davis. Before opening my own practice, I practiced in Monrovia for seven years and in Glendale for eleven years. My practice is limited to dogs and cats which I find challenging and fun.

I was born in Los Angeles, grew up in Rosemead, and attended Mark Keppel High School. I earned my Bachelor's degree at California State University, Los Angeles. At 17 years of age, I started my first job in a veterinary hospital and eventually became a licensed veterinary technician. In 1983, I met my husband David when he was hired at the veterinary hospital where I was working. Throughout college I worked in the veterinary field and in a clinical laboratory. Before acceptance into veterinary school, I became a licensed laboratory technologist and worked in the clinical laboratory at Centinela Hospital during breaks from school.

In 1991, my husband and I purchased our home in Monrovia. After 17 years, we are very happy to be working together in our community. Our three sons attend Monrovia schools and our family belongs to Immaculate Conception parish. Family Dog and Cat Hospital is truly a family business. Our family also includes three cats - Saber, Luna, and Nefretiti, and a freckled dog named Hermione.

David L. Garcia, R.V.T.

For thirty-four years I have been working in veterinary medicine.  Now my wife and I have been blessed with the opportunity to have our own hospital and to practice our craft in a way that will define us.  I have learned a great deal over the years and know that I must continue to learn in order to provide you and your animal friends with excellent care.

I am a native southern Californian and grew up in East Los Angeles.  I attended Cal. Poly Pomona and have been a practicing Registered Veterinary Technician for 26 years.  The only life I have ever wanted is the one that I have.

My wife and I chose the name of our hospital to be Family Dog and Cat Hospital because we feel that our pets are a big part of our family.  We understand that the way we work with our dog and cat patients affects all family members and that decisions regarding their care must take every family member into consideration.

I have strong background in anesthesia, dentistry, radiology, and animal care.  I have always enjoyed teaching others about veterinary medicine.  Prior to opening our practice, I worked at Eyecare For Animals, a veterinary ophthalmology specialty hospital.  This was an exceptional experience and it taught me to pursue excellence.