Dr. Tiffany Sastre Carreras, a Florida-based veterinarian, calls for everyday action to protect animal health, support veterinarians, and preserve wildlife.

AVENTURA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / February 12, 2026 / Dr. Tiffany Sastre Carreras, Associate Veterinarian and long-time conservation volunteer, is raising awareness around the growing need for preventive veterinary care and sustained support for animal conservation efforts. Drawing on her clinical experience and years of volunteer service, Sastre Carreras is urging pet owners and communities to take small, consistent actions that can make a measurable difference in animal health outcomes.

"Most serious medical cases I see could have been reduced or avoided with earlier care," said Sastre Carreras. "Preventive medicine is not about doing more. It's about doing things sooner and more consistently."

Why Preventive Veterinary Care Matters

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, nearly 30% of dogs and cats in the U.S. do not receive annual veterinary visits. This gap often leads to late diagnoses, higher treatment costs, and avoidable suffering for animals.

Preventive care includes routine wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite control, dental checks, and early screenings. These steps are proven to extend pets' lifespans and improve quality of life.

"When clients bring pets in early, the conversation changes," said Sastre Carreras. "Instead of crisis management, we're talking about long-term health."

She adds that preventive care also supports veterinarians and clinics by reducing burnout tied to constant emergency cases.

"You want to help every animal," she said. "But it's emotionally heavy when you only meet pets at their worst moments."

Conservation Is Part of Veterinary Responsibility

Beyond companion animal care, Sastre Carreras has volunteered with the Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center since 2017, supporting veterinary care and rehabilitation for endangered species such as manatees and sea turtles.

Manatees remain threatened, with watercraft collisions and habitat loss among the leading causes of injury and death. Conservation organizations rely heavily on volunteers, donations, and public awareness to continue this work.

"Wildlife doesn't have a voice," she said. "Veterinary professionals have a responsibility to speak up when ecosystems are under stress."

She emphasizes that conservation is not separate from everyday veterinary medicine. It is part of the same system of care.

Everyday Actions That Make a Difference

Sastre Carreras stresses that meaningful change does not require large donations or specialized training. Small actions add up.

"People underestimate the impact of simple habits," she said. "Consistency is powerful."

She encourages individuals to:

  • Schedule regular wellness visits for pets, even when they appear healthy

  • Stay current on vaccinations and parasite prevention

  • Support local shelters and conservation centers through volunteering or education

  • Practice responsible boating and waste disposal in coastal areas

  • Learn about endangered species in their region and share accurate information

"Leadership starts with daily decisions," she said. "You don't need a title to protect animals."

A Call for Long-Term Thinking in Animal Care

As veterinary medicine faces workforce shortages and rising demand, Sastre Carreras believes prevention and public education are critical to the industry's future.

"Veterinary care works best when it's proactive," she said. "That benefits pets, owners, and professionals."

Her message is clear: caring for animals is not limited to exam rooms or rescue centers. It begins at home and continues through informed choices.

About Dr. Tiffany Sastre Carreras

Dr. Tiffany Sastre Carreras is an associate veterinarian based in Florida, with a strong focus on small-animal internal medicine and surgery. Born and raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree with Highest Honors from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine after completing her clinical training at the University of Florida. Dr. Sastre Carreras has worked in both general practice and urgent care settings, including roles at VCA Aventura Animal Hospital and Banfield Pet Hospital. She has also volunteered with the Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center since 2017, supporting veterinary care and rehabilitation for endangered species, including manatees and sea turtles. Her work reflects a commitment to preventive care, community education, and long-term animal well-being.

Media Contact:

SOURCE: Tiffany Sastre-Carreras



View the original
on ACCESS Newswire


Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. XPRMedia and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact [email protected]