Meet Our Team

Dr. Vencil grew up in Jacksonville Beach and knew from a young age that being a veterinarian was his calling. In pursuit of that goal, he attended the University of Florida, where he was awarded a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science followed by a Doctorate degree in Veterinary Medicine. During his time in Gainesville Dr. Vencil met his wife, Jennifer. He was also there to celebrate four Gators NCAA Championships. You could say it was a pretty great eight years!

Dr. Vencil and Jennifer (also a veterinarian) returned to the coast of Northeast Florida where he worked for three years as veterinarian at a large 24-hour animal ER in Palm Coast. It was an opportunity that provided a tremendous amount of experience with complicated medical and surgical cases and state of the art equipment. Dr. Vencil was then drawn to practice in St. Augustine by the beautiful beaches and fantastic community. In 2016 Dr. Vencil became the owner of Palencia Pet Clinic, taking over for Dr. Peter Veling who selected him to uphold the excellent medical standards he had established.

Though he enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine, Dr. Vencil takes a special interest in surgery, dermatology and internal medicine. He looks forward to providing excellent care for your pets.

Dr. Vencil and Jennifer have three children: Harper (9), Jack (8), and Hallie (6).

Dr. Matthew Young graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and began his veterinary career practicing at a large, state of the art, 365 day a year veterinary hospital located in Charlotte, North Carolina where he saw a variety of complex medical, surgical, and emergency cases.

Dr. Young has been practicing in St. Augustine since 2016 after relocating back to the area to be closer to family. While Dr. Young enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine, he has special interests in ultrasonography, surgery, and internal medicine.

Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Young is married to fellow veterinarian Dr. Sarah Franz. Dr. Young and Dr. Franz have two sons, Everett (4) and Wyatt (3). They share their lives with their two dogs, Charlie (their chihuahua rescue) and Beretta (their black Labrador Retriever), as well as their chickens. During his free time Dr. Young enjoys running, fishing, hiking, and traveling with his family.

Dr. Sarah Franz graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2013. Since graduation, she has worked in progressive small animal practices and specialty emergency hospitals. She has extensive experience in surgery (routine and emergency), urgent and critical care medicine, ultrasound, and preventative medicine. She is PennHip certified which allows her to diagnose and predict hip dysplasia.

She also obtained her Master’s in Public Health from the University of Florida with a focus in Epidemiology. She has authored many peer-reviewed research articles in a variety of journals. Upon graduation from Veterinary School, she received the Charlie Bild Clinical Proficiency Award which was in recognition for outstanding clinical proficiency.

Dr. Franz is married to fellow associate Dr. Matthew Young. They met at the University of Florida and have practiced at the same hospital throughout much of their careers. They thoroughly enjoy collaborating together and discussing cases even when it continues after hours at home over dinner! She has been practicing in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2016.

She lives here in St. Augustine with Dr. Young, their two sons (Everett and Wyatt), their two dogs Beretta and Charlie, their cat Teddy, and chickens! She enjoys running, being active outside, boating, and traveling.

Many years ago, Dr. Raina adopted a stray puppy—unaware at the time that this small, sick pup would change her life forever. Frequent visits to the veterinary hospital while caring for that puppy became the spark that ignited her passion for veterinary medicine. Though the work was demanding, the experience revealed the profound bond between people and their pets and ultimately set the course for her career.

Today, Dr. Raina is fortunate to witness and share that same special bond every day in the clinic with clients and their beloved animals.

Dr. Raina graduated with honors from Oklahoma State University in 2013. In 2017, she relocated from West Virginia to the Jacksonville area in search of warmer weather—and Florida has not disappointed. She has since welcomed two young boys to her family, both of whom have already developed a fascination with animals and the excitement of life in a veterinary hospital.

Dr. Olivia Valente is an east coast native who’s dream of becoming a veterinarian has taken her far and wide. Originally from St. Mary’s, Georgia, Dr. Valente attended The University of Georgia where she double majored in Animal Science and Biological Sciences. She then went on to receive her doctorate from St. George’s University on the beautiful island of Grenada, with clinical training from Auburn University. Dr. Valente thoroughly enjoys serving the St. Augustine area and getting to know her patients and their families!

Outside the hospital, Dr. Valente spends her time with her husband, Devin, and their two dogs, Graham (a chocolate Labrador Retriever) and Luna (a yellow Labradoodle). Their favorite pastimes include boating, travel, and spending time with friends and family.

Dr. Michelle Logan is a 2014 LSU Vet School grad who recently moved to Florida from Kansas City, Missouri with her husband, 2 kids, and dog. Prior to Missouri, Dr. Logan practiced in Louisiana after graduation. In her spare time, she loves to hang out with her family, going to the beach, and exploring the great outdoors. She is looking forward to meeting you and your furry family members.