- (951) 676-4690
- 29738 Rancho California Rd, Suite #A, Temecula, CA 92591
- Open 7 Days a Week 8am- 11:59pm
About Us
When your pet needs medical attention, you want a veterinary team you can trust.
Full-Service Veterinary Hospital in Temecula
At Care Animal Hospital & Urgent Care, we believe every pet deserves exceptional veterinary care delivered with compassion and expertise. That’s why our full-service animal hospital in Temecula provides comprehensive medical care for dogs and cats. Whether your companion needs routine wellness care, treatment for an unexpected injury, or something else, our team is here for you.
Our Goal
Our goal is to be your partner in pet parenthood.
Great Location
We are proud to serve the communities of Temecula, Menifee, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, San Diego, and the surrounding areas.
Our Team
Our dedicated team cares for you and your pet
Dr. Sunil Kakarla
DVM, PH.D, Owner
Dr. Sunil Kakarla, an experienced and compassionate veterinarian in Cary, NC, grew up in India. After graduating from the College of Veterinary Medicine in India, he practiced as a companion animal veterinarian for five years in a metropolitan city in India. He moved to the United States in 2005 with a passion for practicing high-quality veterinary medicine in an advanced setting. During that process, he pursued his MS and Ph.D. in a renowned lab at Marshall University in West Virginia.
As a graduate student, Dr. Kakarla performed cutting-edge research and had several high impact publications to his credit. While pursuing graduate studies, he simultaneously completed the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) in 2010.
As a graduate student, Dr. Kakarla performed cutting-edge research and had several high impact publications to his credit. While pursuing graduate studies, he simultaneously completed the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) in 2010.
Soon after this accomplishment, he began volunteering at several local animal hospitals. He completed his clinical experience program and obtained his license to practice in the US the same year.
In 2011, after graduating with a doctoral degree, he joined a small animal practice in Durham/RTP where he established a huge clientele and treated about 6000 to 7000 pets per year.
With his continued passion to provide the best quality veterinary care, he joined the state-of-the-art Walnut Street Animal Hospital in June 2016. As a veterinarian in the RTP area of NC, he strongly believes in quality care for pets and in being available to his patients when needed.
Sunil Kakarla is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and has special interests in dermatology and soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, as well as emergency medicine. Dr. Kakarla is married and has a son and a daughter. He enjoys spending quality time with his family, including his 1-year-old Golden-Doodle, Brownie, and a 4-year-old Poodle, Milky. He enjoys serving his community by actively helping rescue groups and shelter pets, and in his free time, he plays volleyball.
In 2011, after graduating with a doctoral degree, he joined a small animal practice in Durham/RTP where he established a huge clientele and treated about 6000 to 7000 pets per year.
With his continued passion to provide the best quality veterinary care, he joined the state-of-the-art Walnut Street Animal Hospital in June 2016. As a veterinarian in the RTP area of NC, he strongly believes in quality care for pets and in being available to his patients when needed.
Sunil Kakarla is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and has special interests in dermatology and soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, as well as emergency medicine. Dr. Kakarla is married and has a son and a daughter. He enjoys spending quality time with his family, including his 1-year-old Golden-Doodle, Brownie, and a 4-year-old Poodle, Milky. He enjoys serving his community by actively helping rescue groups and shelter pets, and in his free time, he plays volleyball.
Dr. Martinez
Veterinarian
Growing up in LA, my life has always involved animals, starting with pet dogs, fish, and birds. My lifelong passion for animals has led me to a variety of jobs including working with feral kittens in the shelter, lab animal husbandry, and briefly volunteering as a zoo keeper aide.
Currently I have a cat and a leopard gecko, but I am hoping to expand my zoo soon. I look forward to starting my journey with the Care Animal Hospital & Urgent Care team!
I received a B.S. in Animal Biology from UC Davis. I spent 2 years working as a veterinary assistant in the Bay Area before continuing with my veterinary studies at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona.
Dr. Brown
Veterinarian
Dr Brown- I grew up near Berkeley, CA, and my first outing as an infant was to the Oakland Zoo. I've spent my entire life since then surrounding myself with animals, both at home and at work. I have worked as a dog walker, pet sitter, veterinary assistant, and even as an avian point count technician for a research project in the marshes of Delaware. While I love all animals, my biggest passion is wildlife medicine.
I graduated with a B.S. in Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology from UC Davis in 2018 before continuing my education at Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine in Ithaca, NY. In my free time I can usually be found hiking or birding with my husband, or snuggling up with my two cats while reading a good book.
Dr. Koushiek
Veterinarian
Koushiek graduated from a reputed Veterinary College in India. He began his veterinary career at a private pet practice in India, where he gained hands-on experience in small animal medicine, surgery, and client communication over a three years. During this time, he developed strong relationships with pet owners and a deep passion for delivering high-quality veterinary care.
After moving to US, he served as a Veterinary Director at Mission Bend Animal clinic in Houston. In this leadership role, he has focused on creating a compassionate and supportive environment for pets and their families, while guiding a dedicated team and implementing best practices to enhance patient outcomes.
After moving to US, he served as a Veterinary Director at Mission Bend Animal clinic in Houston. In this leadership role, he has focused on creating a compassionate and supportive environment for pets and their families, while guiding a dedicated team and implementing best practices to enhance patient outcomes.
While working as Veterinary Director, Koushiek ’s passion for clinical practice and animal care deepened further. This commitment drove him to complete all board examinations through the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) program, administered by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), in May 2025.
Koushiek ’s professional interests include soft-tissue surgery, and emergency medicine.
Outside of work, Koushiek enjoys spending time with friends, cooking and watching movies.
Koushiek ’s professional interests include soft-tissue surgery, and emergency medicine.
Outside of work, Koushiek enjoys spending time with friends, cooking and watching movies.
Sarah Van Staalduinen
Administrative Director
Sarah is an NC State graduate with double majors in Animal Science and Applied Nutrition. She has lived with animals her entire life and has always had a special place in her heart for them. She has been with the company since 2019, and she loves her job. Not only does she have the opportunity to meet new people and pets on a daily basis, but she also gets to help those fur babies stay happy and healthy with their families. Her favorite things to do outside of work include spending time with her furry kiddos; two dogs named Ochi and Denali, and two cats named Juniper and George. When she’s not at work, you can find her hiking with her dog, or taking part in any other activities in which she can include them.
Caitlin O’Neil
Client Coordinator
Hello! My name is Caitlin, and I have been with Walnut Street Animal Hospital since 2017. I started out as a receptionist and after being with this practice for a year, I was promoted to Manager and transferred to our sister location, Capital Boulevard Animal Hospital. I absolutely loved the experience of opening a new clinic and getting acquainted with all of the rescues. I am excited to start my new role as Client Coordinator with the company. I have always loved working with clients and making sure the owner and furbaby have a positive experience. In my free time, I am with my 2 human kiddos as well as my own furbabies.
Vanessa
Veterinary Technician Assistant
I started working in veterinary medicine by chance over 10 years ago, filling a part time receptionist roll. Over the years, I realized I thoroughly enjoyed working with animal, alongside the doctors and clients to provide the best quality of care for their pets. I have worked as an assistant/technician for the last 5 years. I am so excited to further my knowledge and skillset here at Care Animal Hospital & Urgent Care.
Genesis
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Hi! My name is Genesis and I have wanted to work with animals for as long as I can remember, especially wildlife. I was born in Houston, Texas and graduated from Pima Medical Institute in 2024. I currently volunteer at Taxonyx Mini Horses and will be starting to volunteer with Project Wildlife very soon!
Fatima
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Passionate about animals and veterinary medicine, I’m a dedicated full-time dog mom who loves nothing more than caring for my babies! I have a deep love for helping animals and committed to making a difference in their lives. Whether it's caring for my pups or pursuing my career in vet med, I bring warmth, compassion, and a little bit of pink to the world around me.
Talia
Veterinary Technician Assistant
I joined the Care Animal Hospital & Urgent Care team in January of 2022. I’ve always had a strong lifelong passion for all animals, with an emphasis on exotics, wildlife & conservation. As a veterinary assistant here, I have the privilege of working with and caring for so many incredible animals daily, both the pets & the wildlife rescues that we receive.
Before working at Care, I have been involved in wildlife rescue for over 6 years, and I am now currently in training to become a certified wildlife rehabilitator. I do my work with wildlife in conjunction with Project Wildlife & several rehabilitators throughout Southern California to assure our wildlife gets the proper protection & care that they need, when they need it.
At home, I have two friendly leopard geckos with big personalities; one is a male named Gekyume, & the other is a female named Lasagna.
Before working at Care, I have been involved in wildlife rescue for over 6 years, and I am now currently in training to become a certified wildlife rehabilitator. I do my work with wildlife in conjunction with Project Wildlife & several rehabilitators throughout Southern California to assure our wildlife gets the proper protection & care that they need, when they need it.
At home, I have two friendly leopard geckos with big personalities; one is a male named Gekyume, & the other is a female named Lasagna.
Melanie
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Hi my name is Melanie. Growing up I've always had a passion for animals. When I learned about veterinary science I knew that, that was what I wanted my life career to be. Veterinary medicine has always been something I have been interested in and had a passion for since highschool where I had the opportunity to work with livestock animals. I started my journey in vet med a little over a year ago at an emergency hospital where I expanded my knowledge in small animal medicine. I went to Platt college where they taught me the fundamentals of veterinary science.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my 3 fur babies. I have two cats and one dog who I would do anything for.
Monse
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Hi, I’m Monse! I’m in my first year of working in veterinary medicine, and finally living out the dream I’ve had since I was little — working with animals everyday. I graduated from Platt College - Riverside, and first joined this clinic as an extern. Now I’m a vet assistant, applying everything I’ve learned on real patients. I’m slowly but surely leveling up my skills and loving every moment of this journey with the animals who inspired it all.
Briana
Veterinary Technician Assistant
With 10 years of experience in the veterinary world I’ve had the privilege of working with both small and large animals, providing compassionate and dedicated care every step of the way. I began my veterinary journey at Platt College in 2014 and graduated in 2016, eager to turn my lifelong love of animals into a rewarding career.
Throughout my years in the field, I’ve developed a deep passion for supporting animal health and building trust with clients and their pets. Outside of work, my love for animals continues at home, where I care for a wide variety of companions — dogs, cats, horses, pigs, goats, and plenty of chickens.
When I’m not at the clinic or on the farm, I cherish spending time with my husband and my two amazing stepchildren, making memories together and enjoying the simple things in life.
Throughout my years in the field, I’ve developed a deep passion for supporting animal health and building trust with clients and their pets. Outside of work, my love for animals continues at home, where I care for a wide variety of companions — dogs, cats, horses, pigs, goats, and plenty of chickens.
When I’m not at the clinic or on the farm, I cherish spending time with my husband and my two amazing stepchildren, making memories together and enjoying the simple things in life.
Tatum
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Bio Coming Soon.
Ashley
Veterinary Assistant
Hi my names Ashley. I have always wanted to work and save animals since I was a little girl. I have been working with animals since 2012 and have loved it since. I have learned so much over the years and hope to continue to learn and grow. On my time off I normally spend it with my kids and 3 doggies. Trips to the parks are hectic but every one of them really enjoys it.
Odiee
Veterinary Assistant
Odiee is a graduate of Platt College’s Registered Veterinary Technician program.
Odiee has a soft spot for Pitbull’s and Elephants, and hopes to one day go to Thailand to work with elephants.
She is a talented dancer performing Ballet de Folklorico for many years.
Sarah
Reception Supervisor
Spending summers at my grandparents farm really sparked my love for animals.
I started in the veterinary medicine field in 2004 at a large animal hospital. I have been a veterinary nurse and receptionist. Being a receptionist is where my heart is. Clients are my favorite part.
When I am not working, you can catch me with my husband and five kids at the local dragstrips, racing our cars.
I started in the veterinary medicine field in 2004 at a large animal hospital. I have been a veterinary nurse and receptionist. Being a receptionist is where my heart is. Clients are my favorite part.
When I am not working, you can catch me with my husband and five kids at the local dragstrips, racing our cars.
Kayla
Receptionist
As a veterinary receptionist, I’ve always had a deep love for animals. Every day brings a new set of challenges and rewards as I interact with clients and their furry, feathered, or scaly companions. I love being part of a team that provides top-notch care for our patients. When I’m not wrangling appointment schedules or offering comfort to worried pet parents, I’m embracing the beautiful chaos of motherhood as a first-time mom. Becoming a first-time mom has been a whirlwind of emotions, sleepless nights, and endless joy. While the days may be long, the moments are precious. I’m grateful for the opportunity to build a loving family while pursuing a career that I’m passionate abo
You’re in the Right Place!
Compassionate veterinary care in Temecula
Care Animal Hospital & Urgent Care provides comprehensive veterinary care for dogs and cats in Temecula, Menifee, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, San Diego, and the surrounding areas.
Care Animal Hospital & Urgent Care provides loving, high-quality veterinary care for dogs and cats in Temecula.
Quick Links
Contact Info
Phone Number (951) 676-4690
Fax Number (951) 395-0440
Hours
Open 7 Days a Week
8:00am- 11:59pm