Meet Our Veterinary Team
The team at Lake Square Animal Hospital is dedicated to providing dependable veterinary care for dogs, cats, and select exotic pets in Leesburg and surrounding Lake County communities. Our veterinarians, technicians, and support staff work together to deliver clear communication, consistent care, and thoughtful guidance at every visit.
A Team Focused on Care
Our veterinary team values experience, collaboration, and long-term relationships with both pets and their families. By working closely together and maintaining continuity of care, we’re able to better understand each pet’s health history and provide recommendations that feel practical, informed, and supportive throughout every stage of life.
Dedicated Professionals You Can Trust
Our Veterinary Team
From veterinarians to technicians and front-desk staff, every member of our team plays an important role in your pet’s care. We believe trust is built through consistency, communication, and respect — principles that guide how we care for pets and support their owners every day.
David M. Gunderson, DVM
Veterinarian
Growing up on a Midwestern farm in Iowa was the beginning of my love for animals. I always knew veterinary medicine was my calling. As far back as I can remember, people told me I had a caring way with animals. And it is very gratifying to have realized the dream of making a difference in the lives of our beloved pets.
The Gunderson family farm raised popcorn for Cracker Jacks Company in the early days, and eventually turned the farm into a grain and livestock farm. Dr. Gunderson was one of six children who were all encouraged to maintain the Midwestern morals and work ethic. Each child worked on the family farm, which included caring for the cows, chickens, pigs, horses, and, of course, the family dogs and cats. Dr. Gunderson is proud of his heritage and thankful for the teachings of his parents. It set the foundation for the man he is today and the experiences that led him down the path of excellence in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Gunderson graduated from Iowa State University in 1983. He was a member of the honor society. Upon graduation, he accepted a veterinary position at the Animal Hospital of University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. In 1991, he relocated to Central Florida and took over the Lake County Emergency Clinic. After five years at the Emergency Clinic, he opened Lake Square Animal Hospital.
Dr. Gunderson is married with two sons. Wife, Denise, owns Distinct Innovations, an interior design company. Older son Grant is a graphic designer in Tampa. Blake lives in Denver and is an Industrial Designer.
Dr. Lon Miyahira, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Lon Miyahira graduated from Oregon State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996 and brings over 25 years of experience as a practicing veterinarian. His professional interests include emergency and critical care, orthopedics, regenerative medicine, soft tissue and reconstructive surgery, internal medicine, pain management, and dentistry. He has pursued extensive post-graduate training in each of these areas, continually advancing his skills to provide the highest level of care for his patients.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Miyahira enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, boating, and volunteering at local rescues. He is dedicated to animal welfare beyond the clinic, helping to feed and care for a colony of homeless cats in Fort Myers, Florida, and volunteering with the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) in Sanibel, Florida.
Dr. Miyahira is grateful for the love and support of his wife, Kim, and their three sons. His youngest son, Zak, works alongside him at the practice and aspires to follow in his father’s footsteps by becoming a veterinarian one day.
LuAnn
Practice Manager
For the past three years, working in the veterinary field has been a rewarding and fulfilling experience. The journey began unexpectedly — after being a longtime client, a visit to the clinic revealed a help-wanted sign. Knowing it was a wonderful practice built on compassion and exceptional care, the opportunity to join the team was too good to pass up.
At home, life is happily shared with two rescue dogs and three cats, two of whom are sight-impaired. Each one brings a unique personality and love, making every day brighter.
Outside of work, favorite pastimes include traveling, spending time outdoors in the sunshine, tackling DIY projects, and enjoying good food, good wine, and great company at favorite restaurants.
Lauren
Veterinary Assistant
I’ve been working in the veterinary field for seven years, starting back in October 2018. My love for animals is what first drew me to this career. At 18, this was my very first job, and since then, I’ve experienced tremendous growth — both personally and professionally — as I’ve taken on new roles within the office.
One of the most meaningful parts of my journey has been Bingo, our former office bird. He’s a gorgeous blue-and gold macaw who’s been with me since the beginning, and I’m so grateful to now call him my own. At 29 years old, he’s actually older than I am!
When I’m not at work, I love going to rock concerts and traveling. I’m always ready for the next adventure!
Audrey
Veterinary Assistant
I’ve been in the veterinary field for 1 year and 6 months. My love for animals and desire to help them inspired me to choose this career. I have a few pets of my own — Ostara, a 3-year-old Lionhead Rabbit; Merlin, a 3-year-old veiled chameleon; and Princess Consuela Banana Hammock, my sweet and silly 3-month-old kitten who loves chasing her tail.
In my free time, I enjoy fishing, spending weekends with friends and family, and crocheting.
Alicia
Veterinary Assistant
I’ve been part of the veterinary field since 2012 — almost 13 years of doing what I love! My passion for animals started when I was a child; I’ve always felt a deep desire to help them and to be a voice for those who can’t speak for themselves.
At home, my life is full of furry friends, including three cats — one senior at 11 years old and two playful kittens around six months old — as well as my two dogs, Buttercup and Shadow.
A fun fact that many clients might not know is that I’m a proud parent of three wonderful children. When I’m not caring for animals, I enjoy riding dirt bikes, tinkering with projects, creating arts and crafts, and going on adventures with my family.
Kat
Veterinary Assistant
For nearly 20 years, life has been all about caring for animals and the people who love them. The journey started as a kid, watching the hometown veterinarian work miracles for pets and families alike. That same vet gave the very first job in high school as a weekend kennel tech — and from that moment on, there was no turning back. Working with animals wasn’t just a job; it became a lifelong passion.
These days, home life is just as full of furry faces as the clinic. Three cats — Parker, Forest, and Hannah — rule the roost, while two rescue dogs, Willow and Lucy, keep things lively. Willow is a graceful retired greyhound, and Lucy is a hunting dog who decided she’d rather be a couch potato than chase anything that moves.
Outside of work, there’s a softer side that loves collecting rocks — each one a tiny treasure with its own story. Between the pets, the patients, and the pebbles, life is never short on heart, humor, or a little bit of adventure.
Robin
Front Desk Receptionist/Marketing
Having worked in the veterinary field for 8 months, a lifelong love for animals continues to inspire me every day of this journey. Home life is never dull, shared with two loyal Doberman Pinschers, two curious ball pythons, and a lively bunch of Bengal cats that keep things interesting. Outside the clinic, time is spent tending to a garden and exploring the world of plants and plant medicine, blending a passion for nature with a dedication to caring for all living things.
Jackie
Front Desk Receptionist
With nine months of experience in the veterinary field, a deep love for animals, and a passion for their well-being have shaped this career path. Each day brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive difference in the lives of pets and their families.
At home, life is shared with a wonderful group of pets who bring warmth and personality to every day. Two elderly Maine Coon cats—a male and a female—offer gentle companionship, while a chihuahua adopted three years ago after four previous homes adds energy and
devotion. A very opinionated parrotlet rounds out the household with plenty of character and conversation.
Outside of work, time is spent enjoying needlework, playing billiards, and target shooting handguns. These hobbies provide a creative and relaxing balance to a rewarding career dedicated to caring for animals.
Debbie
Front Desk Receptionist
With six months of experience in the veterinary field, Debbie is excited to be building a career centered around her lifelong love for animals and her desire to make a difference in their lives. Every day brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and provide compassionate care to pets and their families.
At home, she has a crazy Anatolian Shepherd, Macy, whose big personality and amusing habit of eating mulch always keep her smiling.
When she’s not at the clinic, Debbie loves spending time in the kitchen baking sweet treats or hitting the open road on her motorcycle — two hobbies that let her unwind and express her creativity in different ways.
Rachel
Veterinary Assistant
Working in the veterinary field since 2015 has been more than just a career; it’s a calling fueled by a lifelong love for animals. Each day brings new opportunities to make a difference, whether it’s comforting a nervous pet, assisting in surgery, or helping families keep their companions healthy and happy.
At home, life is shared with two beloved pets: Archie, a spirited corgi/papillon mix, and Vince, a sleek melanistic Bengal cat with plenty of personality. They’re a daily reminder of why caring for animals is so rewarding.
Outside the clinic, adventure calls. Flying Cessnas and Pipers offers a sense of freedom and perspective, while traveling to new places satisfies a love for exploration and discovery—both on the ground and in the air.
Anjelyna
Kennel Technician
I’m fairly new to the veterinary field, with about five months of experience so far, but my passion for helping and working with animals has been lifelong. I’ve always known I wanted to be part of a career that lets me make a difference in their lives.
At home, I’m surrounded by my own little crew of pets — a 4-year-old English Bulldog named Wednesday, a 2-year-old Snow Bengal named Aurora, a soon-to-be 5-year-old tuxedo cat named Bud Baby, and a 4-year-old black cat named Binxy.
A fun fact about me is that I absolutely love to read, go shopping, and surround myself with all things pink!
Julie
Kennel Technician/Front Desk
I’ve spent the past four years working in the veterinary field, turning my lifelong love for animals into a career. I’ve always been the “animal person” in my family — so much so that my passion sometimes drove my parents a little crazy! When my pet guinea pig needed surgery, it sparked something in me. From that moment, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to helping animals feel better and live their best lives.
At home, my world revolves around my furry (and hooved) crew: Bambi, my fluffy Norwegian Forest Cat; Candy, my charming tuxedo cat; Nova, my energetic Golden Doodle–Rottweiler mix; and Remy, my retired Hunter/Jumper Appaloosa mix who still loves a good gallop.
Something clients might not know about me is that I spent four years working at a cat rescue and have a soft spot for fostering feral cats. Watching them learn to trust and thrive is one of the most rewarding experiences in my life.
Alyssa
Kennel Technician
I have worked in the veterinary field for 2 months now, but I have dreamed of it my whole life. Animals have always been a big part of life and inspired a dream to work in veterinary medicine. Currently studying at the University of Central Florida, the goal is to go to vet school to become a General or Exotic/Zoo Veterinarian.
Home life is full of pets — two cats, four leopard geckos, two crested geckos, three ball pythons, a Pacman frog, plus spiders and scorpions. Each one has a name and a special personality.
Outside of work and school, art is a favorite hobby, along with reading graphic novels and playing RPG video games. These interests bring creativity and balance to a life centered around caring for animals.