If you love pets, Volunteer for this FREE Event.

If You Pets, Register now!

 This event is for kids, curated by pet lovers and guaranteed to be a great time. Scan the code, registered now. Join us for this life changing event.    

Join us for the Walk for the Animals- Miami- October 4th

 

We Hope You Join Us This Saturday!!

This Saturday, we’re proud to lace up our sneakers and join the Humane Society of Greater Miami’s Walk for the Animals—and we’d love for you to be part of it!

At VCA, our values go beyond the walls of the hospital. We believe in community, compassion, and connection—the same principles that guide how we care for pets and the people who love them. Supporting the Humane Society of Greater Miami is one more way we live those values, giving back to the families and pets who make our community stronger.

Bring your friends, your pets, and your energy, and come walk with us! Together, we can celebrate the bond between people and animals while supporting an incredible cause.

What's New At VCA Hollywood!

Surgical Services Are Expanding – Meet Dr. Patrick Flynn, DACVS-SA

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. Patrick Flynn, DACVS-SA, who will be joining our team in June 11, 2025. With his arrival, our surgical service will be available six days a week, giving patients and referring DVMs greater access to advanced care.

Dr. Flynn brings a decade worth of orthopedic and soft tissue surgery experience to Broward county. He will have a strong focus on increasing access to arthroscopic and fluoroscopic procedures, complex fracture repair, oncologic surgery, and soft tissue reconstruction surgery following trauma or tumor removal.

We’re very excited to have his expertise and passion join our specialty team.

Coming Soon: Dr. Jaymie Zweig

We’re also excited to share that Jaymie Zweig, DVM will be joining our surgical service this September, following the completion of her residency at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists. We look forward to welcoming her and sharing more about her background soon!

Heard the Buzz About Hi Flo O₂?

You may have heard the term high-flow oxygen therapy floating around lately—pun intended. This advanced respiratory support system allows us to deliver warm, humidified oxygen at higher flow rates, making it easier for patients in respiratory distress to breathe without the stress of more invasive methods. It is especially beneficial for conditions like pneumonia, pulmonary contusions, or upper airway obstruction—and it’s available right here at VCA Hollywood. Think of it as an oxygen upgrade, giving our critical patients more comfort and more support, faster.

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital-  24/7/365 Emergency & Specialized Care. 

 

The big bearded one never misses a change to visit the VCA HAH, but this year we are excited to announce that Santa returns to the "red carpet" for Free Pet Photos with your fur babies!

When: December 14th from 9am-12pm,

Where: VCA Hollywood- Annex

What: Free photos with Santa!!

Join us with your fiery feline and cuddly canine during our free pet photo event. This event has historically been offered on the last day of our pet food drive for Meals on Wheels of So. Florida's Companion Pet Program. in lieu of donations of food, monetary support for meals on wheels for pets, can be made online or (link) or during the event on Saturday, Dec.14th.

As always, one photo will be printed on site and digital prints will be made available online for downloading.

Santa never misses a stop off at VCA Hollywood to see your fur-babies. Check out his visit (caught on camera Dec 2020!) Not Even COVID Could Keep Santa Away.

Visit our Facebook page for great photos of some of the fur-families that joined in the fun as well as outtakes of the hilarity that ensues when Santa suits up with a lot of animals!

 facebook.com/VCAHollywoodAnimalHospital

*These collections are full of some "great shots" and also some silly, "feline in your face", "dog on your lap good" times. Enjoy!

Learn more about Meals on Wheel of So. Florida's Companion Pet Program.

Meals for Companion Pets Founded in 1999, the Meals for Companion Pets Program is a volunteer-driven effort providing pet food to homebound and disabled seniors in Broward County. Research shows that seniors with pets are less likely to exhibit depression, report feelings of loneliness and experience illness. But taking care of a pet – feeding, grooming and veterinary care – can be financially and physically burdensome to seniors. More often than not, a devoted animal lover with limited access to food will feed their hungry pet before they feed themselves. Pet food is provided through the generosity of local donors and grants and is delivered on the third Saturday of each month. Volunteers are always needed on the third Saturday of the month to pack & deliver food.

https://www.mowsoflo.org/meals-for-companion-pets

Meet Dr. Diez!!

Meet Dr. Adrienne Newball Diez

Staff Veterinarian DVM

Member of Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Adrienne Newball Diez, a Puerto Rican native, knew at a very young age that her love and respect for animals would lead her to become "an animal doctor". Raised by a single mother in a home that values honesty, empathy, perseverance, responsibility and humility, she credits the support of her family as the key to reaching her goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Her passion for veterinary medicine solidified during a hands on experience with farm animals while earning her bachelor's degree in biology at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus. She received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts and finalized her goal with a clinical year at Oklahoma State University.

With a strong interest in ophthalmology, dermatology and oncology, her long-term hope is to further her training through the pursuit of a residency. While at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital Dr. Diez remains focused on building connections with our pet community and providing exceptional care to her patients.

When not in her white coat, Dr. Diez enjoys traveling, reading sci-fi fantasy novels and spending time with her family and three spoiled fur siblings.

Education: Ross University, 2024, DVM

Meet Dr. Regenbaum!!

Meet Dr. Tayla Regenbaum
Staff Veterinarian DVM


Member of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Born and raised in sunny South Florida, Tayla Regenbaum was surrounded by a variety of pets during her upbringing and developed a deep passion for animals that drove her passion to become a veterinarian. After earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, she went on to complete her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Louisiana State University. Dr. Regenbaum now joins VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital, eager to gain experience and ultimately pursue a residency in veterinary neurology and neurosurgery.

Perfectly suited for a South Florida lifestyle, in her free time, Dr. Regenbaum can be found soaking up the sun at the beach, boating, or doing anything outdoors like hiking, golfing, or playing tennis. She also loves to cook, to travel the world, and to spend time with family. Dr. Regenbaum is also an advocate for conservation medicine and environmental sustainability. As she strives to integrate sustainable practices into her personal and professional life, we are excited to benefit from her innovation.

Education: Louisiana State University 2024, DVM

Meet Dr. Ramirez

 

Kevin Ramirez

Staff VeterinarianDVM

Member of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Kevin Ramirez was born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. He obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ross University, after completing his clinical year at the University of Florida. With a specialized focus in Emergency Medicine and Soft Tissue Surgery, Dr. Ramirez is dedicated to providing exceptional care to every patient he encounters.

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Dr. Ramirez prioritizes clear communication with clients, fostering a deeper connection and understanding throughout their pet's treatment journey. He values diversity and aims to ensure that every client feels heard and supported.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Ramirez is an avid adventurer. Whether he is exploring the depths of the ocean through scuba diving, traversing picturesque hiking trails or enjoying the simple pleasures of soaking up the sun on our sandy beaches, he is always seeking a new adventure.

With his rich cultural background and unwavering commitment to veterinary medicine, Dr. Ramirez brings a unique perspective and top-tier care to his practice, ensuring the well-being of every animal under his care.

Education: Ross University, 2023, DVM

Meet Dr. Alvarado

 Paloma Alvarado

Staff VeterinarianDVM

Member of the Broward County Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Paloma Alvarado is a native of Southern California. Originally, from the vibrant community of Orange County, she began her academic journey by earning a bachelor's degree in Zoology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. There, she developed a strong interest in the natural world and animal sciences and driven by this passion she pursued her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Ross University. Completing her clinical year at our esteemed University of Florida, she has found a happy home on the east coast, and joins us with a diverse skill set and a solid foundation in veterinary practice.

Outside of the office, Dr. Alvarado shows a particular love for cooking and discovering new cuisines, often sharing her culinary adventures through food reviews. Additionally, she is a self-proclaimed comic book nerd and enjoys immersing herself in the world of comic books and sci-fi culture by attending conventions as a dedicated Star Trek fan.

Dr. Alvarado's multifaceted interests and unwavering dedication to veterinary medicine, embodies a holistic approach to life and she is excited to continue her journey with our South Florida pet community.

Education: Ross University, 2023, DVM

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital Hosts Free Eye Exams Event for Service Animals

 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital (VCAHAH) in collaboration with Animal Eye Guys (AEG) of South Florida is proud to announce a one-day Free Eye Exams Event for Service Animals. This event, scheduled for Sunday, May 19, 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, aims to provide valuable eye care services to qualified working dogs in South Florida.

As part of the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam program, VCAHAH and AEG will offer free eye exams to service animals, including BSO K9 Patrol Officers, Humane Society of Broward County Therapy Animals, Memorial Regional Hospital, Broward County Court House Canines, and more. These exams will be conducted by qualified veterinarians specializing in ophthalmology.

WHO/WHAT: 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and Animal Eye Guys of South Florida to host Free Eye Exams Event for Service Animals.

WHEN: 

Sunday, May 19, 2024, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm.

WHERE: 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital
2864 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, FL 33020
954.920.3556

HOW:  Early registration is key to providing these exams.  

This event is part of the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam program, which has been providing free eye exams for service animals for 15 years. The program is conducted by 250 board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists from across the United States and Canada, including Puerto Rico.

 To qualify, qualified service animals must register online April 1-30th at https://www.acvoeyeexam.org/. Once registered, call 754-732-1792 to schedule an appointment.  

Who is eligible? Any active working animal that has been certified by a formal training program or organization or are currently enrolled in a formal training program. The certifying organization could be national, regional, or local in nature.  

Examples of active working animals are guide dogs, handicapped assistance animals, detection dogs, therapy animals, emotional support animals, and search and rescue dogs. Pre-Registration is required 

 When are the exams? Exams are offered throughout the month of May and during this dedicated one-day event on May 21st at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital. 

Pre-Registration is required. 

 How to schedule an exam? Register online- April 1- 30th at www.ACVOeyeexam.org   

Then call 754-732-1792 to set an appointment.   

 "We are thrilled to be part of the ACVO National Service Dog Eye Exam program and to provide free eye exams to our local service animals," said Dr. James Herrington, Medical Director at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital. "This event not only ensures the health and well-being of these dedicated animals but also celebrates their invaluable contributions to our community."

Media representatives are encouraged to attend this event to capture stories and photos of our local service animal community.

About VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital: 

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital is a leading veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for pets. With a dedicated team of veterinarians and support staff, VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership and providing exceptional veterinary care.

About Animal Eye Guys of South Florida: 

Animal Eye Guys of South Florida is a specialized veterinary ophthalmology practice dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions in animals. Led by experienced veterinary ophthalmologists, Animal Eye Guys of South Florida offers advanced eye care services for pes, including service animals.

Did you know? Genetic Testing can help your pet better fight cancer!

Did you know...
DNA Genetic Testing is used to help pets with cancer!

Let’s delve into DNA genetic analysis! What exactly is it?

Genetic testing, also referred to as DNA testing, involves the use of technology or DNA sequencing to identify abnormal changes in genes, chromosomes or proteins. These changes, termed mutations or variants, often contribute to the formation and progression of cancer. DNA genetic testing is routinely used in human medicine and is anticipated to become a standard in veterinary oncology.

How can DNA genetic testing help my pet with cancer?
When DNA mutations or variants are identified through genetic testing, chemotherapy drugs that specifically target the identified mutations can be recommended as treatment for your pet’s cancer. Although DNA genetic testing is not perfect and may not always yield results, it can often help you and your veterinary oncologist make informed treatment decisions and can provide additional insights into prognosis for your pet. This precision allows veterinary oncologists to use precise and targeted chemotherapy to treat cancer, which decreases the risk of chemotherapy side effects.

DNA genetic testing can be especially helpful in challenging cases in which treatment options are limited. Ultimately, our goal is to extend your pet’s survival time past what is expected with conventional chemotherapy. By specifically targeting the mutations identified in your pet’s cancer, many times, targeted chemotherapy and conventional chemotherapy can be safely combined.

What samples are necessary for DNA genetic analysis?
Samples required for DNA genetic testing are typically obtained non-invasively. Depending on the specific test, blood, fine needle aspirates, or biopsy samples are necessary.

Is DNA genetic testing available for both dogs and cats?
Unfortunately, DNA genetic testing is exclusively available for dogs. However, there is hope that it will soon become accessible for cats.

My dog has been diagnosed with cancer. Is DNA genetic testing the next step?
Maybe! Not all cancers are treated equally, and chemotherapy is not always the chosen course of action. Sometimes, surgery alone might suffice for treating your pet’s cancer.

It is the goal of our Oncology Service is to help you explore the best treatment options for your pet and ensure treatment is focused on improving their quality of life. Learn more about our VCA Pet CancerCare Center and how our experts are here to care for your pet.

Dr. Irene Vazquez is a gifted and dedicated veterinarian who leads our Onolcogy department with a primary focus on improving quality of life for every pet that is diagnosed with cancer.

To schedule an appointment and to learn more about Dr. Vazquez, visit our website and watch this video.

Watch Video   

Advanced Cancer Care for the World's Most
Important Pet: Yours

At VCA, it is our goal to help treat your pet’s cancer, giving you and your pet more quality time together. At our VCA Pet CancerCare Centers, our oncology teams design individualized treatment plans for each patient using the most advanced and effective treatments available—much like those used in human medicine.

Learn about the VCA Pet CancerCare difference and watch the stories of pets we've helped after a cancer diagnosis.

Meet Roxy!

Safety Tips SHARE!

Sometimes it is easy to forget the little things that can be risks to our pets. This is an excellent reminder for the holiday season. As we enjoy our treats let keep our sweet fur babies safe. 

 

When You Asked, We Delivered.

Whoop, our pharmacy did it again!

When you needed a better way to reach our pharmacy- they created a direct access email address that connects you right to their team-------> vcahollywoodpharmacy@vca.com

When you needed a faster, more seamless way to refill your pet's medications- they created our QR code to simply Scan and Go!------> your pet's meds on in their queue!

We are very excited to continue to offer tools to help our humans better care for their pets.

There is more.....
Want one more way to stay
up-to-date on your pet's care?

Download our myVCA App and have your veterinary care right on your phone. Learn more and download the app now!

Or text us and we will send you a link that takes you right to your myVCA App page.

Blister packaging is SECURE CLEAR & CONVENIENT

When we were asked for a more convenient way for our clients to manage their pet's medications- our pharmacy created a system that ensures more accurate tracking of medications administered by 

1. reduces errors at home
2. eliminates the hassle of opening traditional medication vial
3. makes the time to re-order, easy to see

We now offer blister packaging. 

Our blister packaging involves securely packaging individual tablets and capsules in clearly labeled compartments within a specially designed card providing an even more convenient solution for your medication needs. This service is available upon request and is particularly beneficial for clients who face challenges in opening medication vials or maintaining a consistent medication schedule.

We are very excited to continue to offer tools to help our humans better care for their pets.

There is more.....
Want one more way to stay
up-to-date on your pet's care?

Download our myVCA App and have your veterinary care right on your phone. Learn more and download the app now!

Or text us and we will send you a link that takes you right to your myVCA App page.

Making Specialty Pet Care Accessible.

 

Our specialists are making even more time available to care for pets.

The veterinary industry has seen its share of strained this year as general practitioners and emergency care facilities see a high volumes of urgent care cases on top of their typical case loads.

Specialty medicine has seen this same influx as well which is why our innovative team at VCA Hollywood created a wait-list tool to ensure our specialty patients recieved access to available appointment as soon as possible. Now, our oncology service has added more consultation times to make oncology care even more accessible to pets in need.


The goal of our Pet Cancer Care team is to ensure pets enjoy the very best quality of life. With the support and collaboration of the entire VCA Hollywood doctors and staff, they also have the best team possible to care for pet.

Learn more about Dr. Vazquez, DAVIM (Oncology) and the PetCancer Care Team 

Stay up-to-day on all of the great success stories we have had the privilege to share!

 MEET THE TEAM!

This year, we welcome four amazing veterinarians that not only have a tremendous passion for pet care, they each bring a unique focus to our practice that compliments our team.

Learn more about Dr. Crystal Ware, Dr. Alexandra Lovirnic, Dr. Corey Young and Dr. Veronica Alamo on our website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see the softest side of patient care. (that is all of the puppies, kitties and snuggles we can get.)  

VCA Hollywood's Hotshots- Meet Michelle!

VCA Hollywood's Hotshots- Meet Michelle!

VCA Hollywood has a loads of hotshots!  We love to highlight our team whenever possible.

This month's special highlight is Michelle. 

Michelle has been with VCA since 2017 but with VCA Hollywood just 9 months and we are all so grateful she chose us!

Michelle joins us as a part of our Pharmacy Team who's location at the (literal) center of our practice though really mirrors their role in our ability to provide exceptional patient care.   Our pharmacy provides care for all of our client Whether GP or Specialty, whether on preventative or chronic medication they serve our in and outpatients even filling all of the medications for our hospitalized patients- not to mention our online pharmacy. 

It is a lot and Michelle has made the team whole. 

Get to know more about Michelle:

Background: Native Floridian who (Miami Gardens) but spent the last 15 years in CA.  

1. Cat or dog person?  

I love cats & small dogs especially, but have affection for most animals in general. I currently have 3 Shepherds and 5 cats.   

2. What is your favorite comfort media (book, show, movie, music, or anything else)? 

Video games! Especially ones that encourage crafting or are open-world. (Currently playing “Subnautica” and “Tears of the Kingdom”.

3. What is one thing you’re learning now or learned recently? 

“Taking care of yourself” is a lot harder than it sounds. It’s an active process (and you don’t suddenly “have it together” by 30 yrs. old) 

4.  What is one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit? 

Better posture (so my back will stop yelling at me) 

5.  If you could trade places with anyone for the day, who would you choose and why? 

Younger me (5 years younger than now) I think it’d be interesting to see younger me deal with today’s me with my responsibilities, vice versa (lol).

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VCA Hollywood's Hotshots- Meet Cristina!

VCA Hollywood has a loads of hotshots!  We love to highlight our team whenever possible.

This month's special highlight is Cristina.

Cristina is a bright light and happy presence in the our practice. She and Dr. Melanie Hnot, our veterinary dermatologist, go together like peanut butter and jelly and have a team that truly enjoys all that they do.

Cristina recently graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science (what an amazing accomplishment) and is working to continue her education on a path to becoming a veterinarian. 

Cristina also recently married the man of her dreams. Life is good. In the busy life she leads, she made the time to answer some fun questions for us.

Get to know Cristina:

1.    Your name/Position/Years working here

Cristina- Veterinary Technician-Dermatology

2.     What is an easy item on your bucket list that you haven’t done yet?

Go to Europe! Or Africa!

3.    Does your current car have a name? What is it?

Yes! Tiffany

4.    What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“Treat others the way you wish to be treated”

5.    What song or album could you listen to on repeat?

Taylor Swift- Album “Midnights”

6.    What simple/everyday food do you refuse to eat?

YOGURT!! 

7.    What current fact about your life would most impress your five your old self?

I am currently applying to the vet school of my dreams and married to an amazing man

8.    What piece of advice would you share with your younger self?

Keep working towards your dreams, never give up despite how hard it is.

Veterinary Medicine, it is not just playing with puppies and kittens.

Veterinary Medicine, it is not just

 playing with puppies and kittens.

When taking your pet to a veterinarian there is an expectation that they will care for the whole pet- just like a human general practitioner (gp). They understand all of the body systems and and how they inter-relate and can make decisions about care that allows your pet to live their best life.  At VCA Hollywood, we think we have some of the best gp veterinarians around who are well versed in this comprehensive care. 

Annually at VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital, we invite veterinarians to join us for a year of intensive practice and mentorship to continue their growth as practitioners. We are very proud of our Surgical and Rotating Internship Program and its part in the veterinary journey. As internships after graduation are highly competitive and completely optional we are always inspired by the caliber of doctors that join us by their clear commitment to going the extra mile for their patients. 

This year's group was truly amazing and we want to share what is next for them.    

To become a board certified veterinary dermatologist, like our very own Dr. Hnot, you must complete a 3 year residency and pass the sate board exams. We are so proud to share that our Dr. Tatiana Matos, after a year working with on emergency all of our specialist will start her dermatology residency at Allergy, Skin and Ear Clinic for Pets 

Get to know, Dr. Alexandra Emelianchik. After spending a year caring for our pet community Dr. E, is working toward specialized exotic pet care with a one year exotic internship with Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston. We are so excited for and we will miss Dr. Emelianchik!

To become a board certified veterinary surgeon, you must complete a 3 year residency and pass the state board exams. The journey to a residency is rigorous and quite competitive which requires applicants to prepare with specialized internships to even be considered for acceptance. Dr. Sonya Shaw and Dr. Pallavi Sinha have spent this year mentored by our surgical team Dr. Jon Dee and Dr. Andrea Clark and we are excite to share their next steps. 

Meet Dr. Shaw who will be taking on a research/surgical internship at the University of Missouri next year and Dr. Sinha who will join the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island for a surgical internship.

Dr. Jennifer Neumann will be pursuing emergency work in the Miami area and Dr. Leanne Boyd is returning home to California to be with her east coast family. 

Now more then ever, general practice veterinarian have a broader directory of advanced veterinary care to draw on when their patient assessment dictates. Specialists in Dermatology, Surgery, E
emergency & Critical Care, Internal Medicine and Oncology are among the available care for pets at our practice and we are proud of our commitment to the future of veterinary medicine.

Free Eye Exams for Service Animals One Day Event!

VCA Hollywood Animal Hospital and the Veterinary Ophthalmologist group, Animal Eye Guys hosted a day of FREE Eye Exams for Pre-Registered Service Animals in our community on Sunday, May 21st.

Sponsored by the ACVO - American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, this event was offered to support the goal of providing as many free eye exams as possible to qualified Service Animals across the U.S. and Canada throughout the month of May.

During this full-day event, we saw over 50 service animals that included individual handlers, canines from Memorial Hospital, therapy animals from the HSBC and Humane K9, BSO & Miramar canine officers, and search and rescue canines from Miami Dade and Hialeah. These are just a sample of the fantastic animals we had the pleasure to provide these sight-saving exams.

Service animals are essential workers and for us to play a part in providing these exams
aligns with the core values of VCA Hollywood Hospital and Animal Eye Guys of South Florida, who put pet health as our first priority.

This event is national in origin so while this one-day service has passed, every May these exams are available throughout the country by participating ophthalmologists every May. Registration for these exams is necessary and occurs every April.

Follow us on social to stay connected about future events.