Dr. Maria Roa is a staff veterinarian at VCA Old Canal Animal Hospital in Plainville, Connecticut. She was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela until moving with her family to the United States when she was seventeen years old. Her passion for animals and becoming a veterinarian started when she was a kid.

Once in the United States, she attended the last two years of high school at Ronald W. Reagan Doral Senior High School in Miami, Florida. After graduation, she started her higher education in a dual language program at Miami Dade Honors College. After completing her associate degree, she transferred to the University of Florida where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology in May 2019. During the Fall of that same year, Dr. Roa spent four more years at the University of Florida attending veterinary school. She really enjoyed her time in Florida! She would go to the beach or nearby trails whenever her schedule allowed her and was able to visit her family in South Florida often.

However, she has elected to move to Connecticut after graduation and embark on a new adventure! Dr. Roa is excited to discover new places, enjoy Connecticut's nature and outdoor activities, and experience the different seasons.

Dr. Roa has decided to start her veterinary career at VCA Old Canal. She is eager to meet and help the community, including Spanish speakers. She has a special interest in soft tissue surgery, preventative medicine, ultrasound, and dental procedures. Dr. Roa looks forward to providing wellness and quality care to her patients while educating and creating long-lasting relationships with clients.

In her spare time, Dr. Roa enjoys being outside in nature, spending time with loved ones, reading, and taking care of her mixed-breed dog named Canela.