Antonia Gardner grew up in northwest Florida, attending undergraduate school at the University of West Florida in Pensacola. She graduated with her veterinary degree from the University of Florida in 2004, after which she completed a small animal/exotic internship at Florida Veterinary Specialists and North Bay Animal Hospital. In 2005 she moved to SE Florida and began a diverse career, practicing small animal and emergency medicine, spay, and neuter of exotic pets, and becoming the medical director at the South Florida Wildlife Center. Besides her clinical responsibilities, Dr. Gardner enjoys research, lecturing, and mentoring veterinary students. In 2022, Dr. Gardner, husband Dr. Makowski, and son Cayeden were thrilled to move to Charlotte NC, to enjoy the beautiful scenery and seasons that North Carolina has to offer. They are looking forward to hiking, rafting, camping, and other outdoor activities. Dr. Gardner is a self-described “bird nerd”, and currently shares her home with two spoiled dogs, Wennie and Nugget, and a chunky, demanding guinea pig named G. Fluff. She is looking forward to serving Spay Neuter Clinic of the Carolina’s clientele and learning more about the greater Charlotte area