Dr. Laila Proença, MV, MSc, PhD, DVM, DACZM – Founder and CEO of PETAHEAD and VETAHEAD

A proud native of Brasília, Brazil, Dr. Laila Proença is the visionary founder and CEO of PETAHEAD, a platform dedicated to enhancing the lives of ZooMed (exotic) pet owners and their beloved animals. Dr. Proença brings over two decades of deep-rooted passion and expertise in Zoological (exotic) Medicine to her role, offering a wealth of knowledge to the ZooMed (exotic) pet community.

As the first South American to earn the title of Diplomate by the American College of Zoological Medicine (DACZM), Dr. Proença has pioneered advancements in the care of non-traditional pets, encompassing rabbits, rodents, birds, reptiles, and more. Her academic journey, enriched with a Masters and PhD, as well as multiple advanced degrees, underscores her dedication to veterinary excellence.

Under her leadership, Petahead has emerged as a cornerstone for pet owners, providing essential education, resources, and support to ensure the health and happiness of ZooMed (exotic) animals. Dr. Proença’s commitment to ‘No species left behind’ reflects her belief that all pets deserve the highest standard of care, which she promotes through Petahead’s innovative services and community outreach programs.

In addition to her role at Petahead, Dr. Proença is also the founder and CEO of Vetahead. This online platform empowers veterinary professionals (vets, techs, and students) by providing specialized training and resources in Zoological Medicine, widely known as exotic animal medicine. Vetahead is committed to making advanced veterinary care accessible, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques to enhance the standard of care provided to non-traditional pets.

Dr. Proença is not only a recognized leader in veterinary medicine but also a devoted advocate for the empowerment of pet owners and professionals alike. Her work extends beyond these platforms as she continues to influence the veterinary field through speaking engagements and her significant contributions to veterinary literature.