This month, our Team Spotlight shines on Jennifer Lopez – better known to all of us as JLo! As a soon-to-be biology graduate at UNLV and a dedicated Veterinary-Technician-In-Training (VTIT) here at Rehab 4 PAWS & Integrative Therapy, JLo brings compassion, curiosity and unwavering commitment to every patient she cares for. Her passion for rehabilitation first took root while caring for her senior dogs, Ghost and Zala, whose needs sparked a deep appreciation for mobility, healing and quality of life. That personal experience now fuels the empathy she brings to aging, injured and post-surgery pets who rely on our team for their recovery.
Balancing a rigorous university schedule with hands-on clinical training isn’t easy, yet JLo approaches both with enthusiasm and purpose. Whether she’s supporting underwater treadmill sessions, guiding a patient through therapeutic exercises or cheering on a pet who has shown a little more strength than the week before, she brings warmth, patience and a genuine desire to help each animal thrive. Her journey to becoming a VTIT hasn’t been the traditional route, but it’s one that has given her a strong scientific foundation, a thoughtful approach to patient care and a deep sense of gratitude for every step she’s taken.
JLo plays an essential role in the emotional heartbeat of our rehab team. She forms meaningful connections with pets and their families, celebrates every small victory and remains inspired by the resilience our patients show each day. We sat down with her to learn more about her path, what being a VTIT means to her and the moments that remind her why she chose this incredibly rewarding field.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to pursue veterinary medicine?
“I always knew that I had a passion for animals since I was a young kid and as I became older I figured why not make my passion my career and it has been the best decision.”

What drew you specifically to animal rehabilitation and physical therapy?
“I really enjoy seeing our patients recover and being a part of the entire recovery process, I knew that with rehab & physical therapy I would be there every step of the way for these patients and be able to see their true personalities shine through.”

How would you describe the key differences between being a Veterinary Assistant (VA) and a Veterinary-Technician-In-Training (VTIT)?
“As a VTIT I’ve been able to take a more hands-on role in patient care and treatments. While being a Veterinary Assistant gave me a strong foundation in animal handling and clinic flow, stepping into the VTIT role has allowed me to grow more. It’s incredibly rewarding to apply what I’m learning and see the difference it makes in an animal’s care and comfort.”

What has your journey to becoming a VTIT been like so far?
“It was a long waiting process since I didn’t take the traditional route of enrolling directly in a veterinary technician program. Instead, I chose to pursue my bachelor’s degree in biology at a university. Because it’s considered a non–animal-related science, the Nevada Board took some extra time to review my application before granting approval.”

What do you enjoy most about working at Rehab 4 PAWS?
“I truly enjoy the love and unique personalities of each patient. Being part of their healing journey is such a rewarding experience, especially when I see their strength and resilience shine through. Each time they come in, they’re a little stronger, a little happier, and so excited to see us and that makes every moment worth it.”

What has been your favorite patient success story so far?
“It’s hard to choose just one favorite patient success story because I’ve built such strong connections and relationships with so many of them. If I had to pick, I’d say Dixie and Scooby stand out the most. Both came to us with IVDD injuries and were unable to walk and watching them finally stand up and take their first steps on their own were absolutely incredible moments. Knowing I was part of their recovery and seeing their determination reminded me exactly why I love what I do.”

What do you find most rewarding about working in animal rehabilitation?
“Being part of their healing journey is such a rewarding experience, especially when I see their strength and resilience shine through.”

What are some of the challenges you face balancing school and your VTIT training?
“One of the biggest challenges I face while balancing school and work is finding enough time for both. I’ve had to cut back my work hours to focus on my classes and keep up with assignments, which means that during the semesters, I’m not as involved at the clinic as I’d like to be. It’s hard not seeing my patients as often and missing parts of their recovery journeys, especially when I’ve built such strong connections with them.”

Do you have any advice for others who might be interested in going down the VTIT path?
“My advice for others is to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough. The journey isn’t always easy, but every challenge helps you grow, and in the end, it’s all so worth it. Seeing how far you’ve come and what you’ve accomplished makes every late night and long day worthwhile.”

JLo’s journey is a reminder of how passion, perseverance and heart can shape an incredible career in veterinary medicine. From her early love of animals to her growing expertise as a VTIT, she continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their families. We’re grateful to have her as part of the Rehab 4 PAWS & Integrative Therapy team and can’t wait to see all she accomplishes as she moves closer to becoming a fully licensed veterinary technician!