Meet the Sonoran Veterinary Center Team

Dr. Luke Lehrling

Medical Director

Dr. Luke Lehrling earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University. He began his career as a Captain in the United States Army, where he provided care for Military working dogs, Cavalry horses, and the pets of service members.

His clinical experience includes disaster relief operations, humanitarian missions, and leading veterinary service trips across East Africa. He also served as an Assistant Professor of Surgery & Anesthesia at the University of Arizona, where he trained veterinary students in surgical and anesthetic procedures.

Dr. Lehrling has advanced training in emergency veterinary care, animal MEDEVAC and blood banking systems, and outbreak response. As a Fellow of the Royal Society for Public Health, he has studied One Health principles, tropical disease management, and strategies to combat global health threats such as antibiotic resistance.

He discovered his passion for veterinary medicine during his time in military service, ultimately choosing a path of care for animals and their people. He knows that the human animal bond is powerful and sees the positive impact on the lives of pets and people every day.

Outside of work, Dr. Lehrling enjoys video games, vintage fashion, and dancing with the Leaps for Lives dance company. He’s active in the Tucson community and loves spending time with his kids, his pug, and close friends.

Dr. Elana Paras

Veterinarian

Dr. Elana Paras is a recent graduate from UC Davis, eager to embark on her veterinary career. With a deep love for small animal and exotic species, Dr. Elana is excited to continue working with and caring for them. In her approach to veterinary medicine, Dr. Elana prides herself on forming a strong connection with all her patients, regardless of their size. She believes in taking the time to show love and care to each patient, recognizing that this is the essence of their work. In her free time, Dr. Elana enjoys getting outside with her dogs, whether it’s walking, running, or hiking. A fun fact about Dr. Elana is that she is a native of Tucson, bringing with her a love for her hometown. Dr. Elana is also a proud pet owner, with a diverse furry and scaly family consisting of a cattle dog, a pomeranian mutt, a chinchilla, and a crested gecko. Each of her pets has taught her valuable lessons and enriched her life in unique ways.

Dr. Rory Keefer

Veterinarian

Dr. Rory Keefer is a dedicated veterinarian with 5 years of experience, earning his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania in 2020. Dr. Keefer has advanced training in surgical dental extractions and a love for dental care. He enjoys helping pets through radiographic evaluations, extractions, and practical at-home dental routines.

Dr. Keefer is passionate about empowering pet owners through education, offering guidance on wellness, nutrition, supplements, and disease management. He is known for clear communication, compassionate care, and creating a safe, inclusive space for all clients.

Dr. Keefer has experience caring for a growing group of personal reptiles, including five bearded dragons and an iguana. This has sparked a growing interest in reptile care and a long-term dream of building a sanctuary for unwanted beardies.

Outside of the work, he enjoys gardening, yoga, hiking, discovering new restaurants, and traveling throughout the Southwest. A fun fact about Dr. Keefer: He does spot-on voice impressions, and his friends say he missed his calling as a Cartoon Network voice actor.