University Animal Clinic
Let Our Family Care for Your Whole Pet Family
Locally Owned, Family-Operated, and AAHA Accredited Veterinary Hospital serving Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton areas.
For over 30 years, University Animal Clinic has cared for pets and families across Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. Since taking ownership in 2015, Dr. Leigh, affectionately known as Dr. Sam to clients and friends, and Sam Samanowitz have grown the practice into a family-owned veterinary hospital delivering gold-standard care for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and exotic pets alike. Today, University Animal Clinic is a trusted home away from home for the community’s pets, guided by a strong team culture and a deep commitment to genuine, lasting relationships.
For over 30 years, University Animal Clinic has cared for pets and families across Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. Since taking ownership in 2015, Dr. Leigh, affectionately known as Dr. Sam to clients and friends, and Sam Samanowitz have grown the practice into a family-owned veterinary hospital delivering gold-standard care for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and exotic pets alike. Today, University Animal Clinic is a trusted home away from home for the community’s pets, guided by a strong team culture and a deep commitment to genuine, lasting relationships.

0+
Years in Business


0.7
Average Google Rating
More About Us
Our Story
Dr. Leigh, or “Dr. Sam” as many of our clients know her, and Sam Samanowitz’s journey to University Animal Clinic began long before 2015. College sweethearts who met at the University of Florida, their path has always blended medicine, leadership, and a shared commitment to family. After Dr. Sam earned her veterinary degree from LSU and gained valuable clinical and leadership experience, and Sam built a 14-year career in finance and operations, they combined their strengths to purchase University Animal Clinic and shape it into the family-owned hospital it is today.
Together, they’ve grown University Animal Clinic into a purpose-built, modern animal hospital rooted in strong team culture and meaningful community relationships. As Sam shares, “We wanted to create a place where families feel known, supported, and confident that every decision is made with their pet’s best interest at heart.”
Today, their vision continues to guide the future of University Animal Clinic as they expand access to advanced care, mentor the next generation of veterinary professionals, and remain personally invested in every pet and family they serve.
Together, they’ve grown University Animal Clinic into a purpose-built, modern animal hospital rooted in strong team culture and meaningful community relationships. As Sam shares, “We wanted to create a place where families feel known, supported, and confident that every decision is made with their pet’s best interest at heart.”
Today, their vision continues to guide the future of University Animal Clinic as they expand access to advanced care, mentor the next generation of veterinary professionals, and remain personally invested in every pet and family they serve.




Our Hospital
Independently Owned. Personally Invested.
We’re a passionate team committed to caring for and building relationships with your family and the pets you love, whether they have fur, feathers, or scales!
Free From Corporate Policies
Our team is ready to make the decisions based on what’s best for your pet, not corporate guidelines.
Modern, Purpose-Built Animal Hospital
In 2025, we began our newest chapter in a purpose-built veterinary hospital that prioritizes the comfort, safety, and happiness of dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and exotic pets alike.
Family-Led
Proudly family-owned and led by Dr. Sam and Sam Samanowitz, we serve families with integrity, expertise, and heart.
A Culture of Learning and Growth
We are committed to mentorship, professional growth, and continuous learning so our team can provide the highest standard of care.
What we do
One Veterinary Home for Every Species
Our animal hospital was designed with all species in mind, with specifically designed spaces that cater to your furry, scaly, and feathered companions.
Explore Our ServicesOur Team
Meet Our Team
Care for every species starts with the right team. At University Animal Clinic, great medicine starts with great people. Our veterinarians, technicians, and client care team work together with compassion, respect, and accountability to ensure every pet and every family feels known and supported.
Meet the TeamReviews
Testimonials
See What Families Across Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota Are Saying!
We are committed to building meaningful relationships with pets and the families who love them.
View AllWe are committed to building meaningful relationships with pets and the families who love them.
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Fun Fact Friday
Learning is part of caring well for your pet. Fun Fact Friday is our video library where our team shares helpful tips, interesting pet facts, and answers to common questions we hear from families every day. From wellness and behavior to nutrition and preventive care, these short videos are designed to help you better understand and care for your pet at every stage of life.
View AllIncorporating your pet into your New Years resolution!!
How to travel with your pets!
Puppy Training Tips
Is Your Cats Scratching Driving You Nuts?
Our Team
News & Articles
We believe informed pet owners make confident decisions. Our Articles & News section is where we share helpful pet care information, hospital updates, and insights from our veterinary team to help you stay informed, prepared, and confident in the care you provide for your pet.

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