Meet the Team Behind Buenavida

Clinical insight. Human connection. Transformative mentorship.

Dr. Byron S. Farquer DVM

CVA – Chief Insight Officer

A Boettcher Scholar and Colorado State University alumnus, Dr. Byron S. Farquer offers decades of experience as a DVM and Certified Valuation Analyst. With licenses in multiple states and expertise in business valuation and practice management, he frequently lectures on leadership and profitability. An instrument-rated pilot, he is a devoted family man married for over 25 years and a proud cowboy who embraces his Colorado roots and Western heritage. He supports charitable causes such as St. Jude, the Modesto Gospel Mission, and the Simmons Education Fund.

Gilberto Figueroa

Director of Talent Acquisition

With over 20 years in sales, recruitment, and team development, Gilberto Figueroa is dedicated to helping professionals realize their potential. A graduate of ITESO in International Business, he supports veterinarians in accessing life-changing U.S. opportunities. Gilberto believes recruitment is about changing lives. A dedicated family man, he cherishes time with his loved ones and extends his commitment to community service through fundraising for children facing cancer and vulnerable populations.

Lena Smith RVT

Group Manager

Lena Smith is an accomplished veterinary professional with extensive hands-on clinical expertise and a distinguished career in management. As a registered veterinary technician, she excels in administering anesthesia, managing post-operative recovery, and performing advanced diagnostic tests – with particular proficiency in ultrasound imaging for rapid and accurate patient assessment – along with providing excellent wound care and preventative treatments. Her clinical mastery complements her leadership and operational skills. Lena was a foster mother for at-risk girls and is a regular blood donor, underlining her commitment to community service. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a caring mother of two boys and enjoys spending quality time with her fiancé.

Juan Manuel Figueroa MVZ

Chief of Staff

Juan Manuel Figueroa is a dedicated veterinary surgeon specializing in soft tissue and orthopedic procedures, including hemilaminectomies. As co-founder and medical director of a successful veterinary hospital in Mexico, he is passionate about advancing veterinary medicine and providing high-quality care. He led a team of 18 veterinarians and staff in performing over 40 advanced veterinary procedures annually, including small animal neurosurgery, advanced orthopedics, and complete bladder reconstruction. His commitment to innovation and clinical excellence is reflected in his meticulous approach, his dedication to mentoring younger professionals, and his contributions as a published scientific author.

Dr. Demian Dressler

Founder

Dr. Dressler brings over 28 years of experience to Buenavida veterinary Group. A Cornell University graduate specializing in care for cats and dogs, he is a mentor and innovator. He co-authored the Amazon best-selling "Dog Cancer Survival Guide", invented several clinical therapeutics, and has provided national continuing education. As co-founder of Functional Nutrients, his work has earned recognition from the Obama administration for disruptive health technology. He established the "Puppet Fund" to assist clients with unexpected costs while mentoring those facing personal challenges. As CEO, he is devoted to building a dynamic, supportive environment that fosters optimism, exceptional pet care, and career growth. On a personal level, he is profoundly committed to his family, cherishing the strong bonds that guide his life and work.