Doctor Ivan Alfonso was born in tropical Puerto Rico, and was
raised in various parts of the island. From a very young age he
developed an affinity for all animals, especially tropical fish
and reptiles.
He nurtured his penchant for these exotic oddities
by working at various pet shops as a teen, and by gathering any
information he could find. He acquired his first tropical fish
tank at twelve years. He later obtained several Old World
Chameleons, which he cared for enthusiastically.
However, he
noticed that most Veterinarians in the area lacked the
knowledge, resources, and desire to efficiently treat reptiles
and fish. Disappointed but not deterred, Ivan decided he would
become a Veterinarian himself, and give these creatures the
medical attention that they deserved.
He enrolled in the University of Puerto Rico in Mayaguez, and
graduated in 1996 with bachelors in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and
Animal Sciences. He obtained his Veterinary Degree at the
prestigious Tuskegee School of Veterinary Medicine in May of 2000.
Ivan moved to Orlando, Florida that summer and began working at
Kirkman Area Animal Clinic as an associate Veterinarian. After
four years of dedication and hard work, he reached another
successful benchmark, and became the owner of the hospital.
His love for the well being of his patients, and his gregarious
and empathic spirit towards his clients always keep him on the
go.
His hobbies include freshwater and saltwater fish keeping,
chameleon keeping and breeding, video games and just relaxing
while watching his animals.
He and his wife are owners of a pet pug, tortoiseshell cat,
Eclectus parrot, and various reptiles and fishes.