Meet the Team

Dr. George Jutras after obtaining his B.S. degree from The University of Rhode Island began a career as an anesthesia and surgery technician at the University of Florida.  2020 marked his 29th year as a veterinarian graduate from the University of Florida.

Establishing himself in Sebastian as the founder and owner of Highlands Animal Hospital, his practice specializes in small animals including dogs, cats, and pigs.

His spare time is filled with skydiving locally and climbing mountains on multiple continents.

Dr. Alison Frankenberger is a small animal practitioner at Highlands Animal Hospital. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Central Florida and earned a degree in Biology with honors. She completed her veterinary studies at the University of Florida and earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine with honors.

Dr. Frankenberger is a member of the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the Treasure Coast Veterinary Medical Association. She regularly attends the North American Veterinary Conference to further her knowledge and skills.

Dr. Frankenberger joined the veterinary team at Highlands Animal Hospital in 2001. She has dedicated herself to the compassionate care of dogs and cats ever since and has worked hard to be their advocate. She feels that by combining a strong knowledge base, a thorough physical exam and encouraging a close teamwork relationship with every family and pet, we can hear the voices of our furry family members.

Dr. Frankenberger resides in Vero Beach with her husband Mark, and their children Graham and Anna. Currently, both children plan to become veterinarians and work with their mom!

Growing up on a farm gave Dr. Eddie Mahoney his first love of animals. In fact, his relationship with one of the family’s racehorse pushed him toward veterinary medicine.

After obtaining a degree in biology from the University of Kentucky, he continued his education at Auburn University.

After earning the DMV degree in 2000, Dr. Mahoney began practicing in Western New York working primarily with his first love, the equine athlete.

Two years later, Dr. Mahoney, returned to his hometown in North Central Kentucky where de developed a special interest in surgery, especially orthopedics. In January 2016 he joined Highlands Animal Hosptial.

When away from the office, Eddie enjoys playing golf, traveling, and spending quality time with his wife and children.

Dr. Payson was raised in Framingham, MA. He graduated with his DVM from Iowa State University in 1980. After experiencing the bitter cold winters of MA and IA, he decided to relocate to Southeast Florida. At the end of 1984, he opened Boca Grove Animal Hospital in Boca Raton, FL. Shortly after, he opened a second practice, Boca North Animal Hospital.

After selling both practices to spend more time with his wife and two children, Dr. Payson later partnered to open Riverside Animal Hospital in Coral Springs, FL in 2001.

Today, Dr. Payson continues his passion for veterinary medicine as part of the team at Highlands Animal Hospital.

The son of two veterinarian's, Dr. Daniel Jutras has pursued the field of veterinary medicine from a young age under the tutelage of his father, Dr. George. Graduating from the University of Florida College of Veterinary medicine in 2023, Dr. Daniel brings a fresh look and current principles of the field to Highlands Animal Hospital. Dr. Daniel is known for his compassion, understanding and goals of client education.

When not in the office, Dr. Daniel spends his time traveling, working on his hobby as an amateur costume maker , or relaxing playing a video game or two with his friends.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Goodwin enjoys staying active and connected through her local running group, reflecting her commitment to both personal wellness and community engagement.