Orlando Diaz-Figueroa, DVM, MS, Specialty in Avian & Exotic Animal Medicine

Orlando Diaz-Figueroa was born in Puerto Rico. As a child, Orlando was surrounded by many animals including fish and reptiles. This led to the development of a keen interest in exotic animals. He graduated from Colegio San Jose in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico in 1992 and continued his education at Louisiana State University. He was inducted to the Dean’s list while pursuing his Bachelor of Science. He graduated from Louisiana State University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science. He was admitted to the School of Veterinary Medicine at Tuskegee University in the fall of 1997 and was awarded his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in May 2001.

During his last year at the School of Veterinary Medicine, he was named All-American Collegiate Scholar by the United States Achievement Academy. At the same time, he was inducted to the Phi Zeta National Veterinary Honor Society – Rho Chapter at Tuskeege University. In the fall of 2001, he accepted the position of an internship in companion avian/exotic and small animal medicine at Animal Care Unlimited and the Ohio Wildlife Center which he successfully completed in the summer of 2002. After completing the internship, he was accepted for a 3-year residency in Zoological Medicine at the Louisiana State University. While completing his residency and Master of Science degree, he was inducted to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for his academics and leadership. He finished his residency and obtained his Master of Science degree in July 2005.

His special interests are in avian obstetrics and reptilian gastrointestinal diseases. Together with his wife, Dr. Perez, they are the owners of Lake Howell Animal Clinic. His personal interests include husbandry and breeding snakes and tortoises. Other hobbies are growing orchids and keeping cichlids from South America and Africa.

Scientific Publications