Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Jansel Perez.
Hi Dr. Jansel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Dr. Jansel Perez, owner of Dorado Animal Hospital & Surgical Center in Oceanside, California. If you’re in the area, come meet me and bring your pet along!
My story with animals started early. I was born in Manzanillo, Cuba, and later moved with my family to Puerto Rico, where I grew up and discovered my lifelong love for animals. Veterinary medicine was always part of my life because my father is a veterinarian. Some of my earliest and most meaningful memories are of joining him on farm visits and watching him care for animals. Seeing his dedication inspired me to follow in his footsteps and set me on the path to becoming a veterinarian.
My mother also played an important role in shaping my love for animals. She taught me compassion and showed me that every animal deserves care and respect. Together, my parents taught me how to listen to animals that cannot speak for themselves and understand their needs.
At just eight years old, I began volunteering at my local humane society in Puerto Rico. That experience confirmed that caring for animals was more than a childhood interest—it was my calling. I later became a veterinary technician and spent 12 years working in veterinary hospitals throughout Puerto Rico while continuing my education.
I earned my undergraduate degree in biology, with a minor in ecological and environmental sciences. During my studies, I focused on researching Puerto Rico’s wildlife, including bats, feral cats, and birds. My research was eventually published in the scientific journal *Acta Chiropterologica*.
After three years of applying to veterinary schools, I was accepted into Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. I completed my clinical training at Oklahoma State University and graduated in 2017. Shortly after returning to Puerto Rico to begin my career, Hurricane Maria devastated the island. My sister and I decided to move to Virginia in search of new opportunities.
I joined Stonewall Veterinary Clinic, where I spent four years learning from exceptional veterinarians who helped me grow both professionally and personally. During that time, I developed an even deeper passion for surgery, which has become one of the most rewarding parts of veterinary medicine for me.
Wanting to be closer to the ocean and pursue my dream of becoming a practice owner, I eventually moved to California, where I have lived for the past four years. Just one year after moving, I opened Dorado Animal Hospital & Surgical Center. I chose the name Dorado after my hometown in Puerto Rico as a way to honor my roots and maintain a meaningful connection to the place that shaped who I am.
Looking back, my journey has been shaped by my family, my mentors, and, above all, my love for animals. Every challenge along the way has strengthened my commitment to providing the highest level of veterinary care while carrying forward the legacy that first inspired me as a child.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Growing up in Puerto Rico and pursuing a career in veterinary medicine presented many challenges, but each one helped me develop the strength and resilience I needed to keep moving forward. Through every obstacle, my eyes remained focused on my ultimate goal: becoming a veterinarian.
One of my biggest challenges was learning a new language while starting veterinary school. Spanish is my first language, and I was accepted into an English-speaking veterinary school. I had to learn English while simultaneously learning the complexities of veterinary medicine. I remember sitting in class with a dictionary beside me, trying to follow my professors and understand my textbooks. It was difficult and at times overwhelming, but with the help of my classmates and my determination, I gradually overcame the language barrier.
That experience taught me the importance of perseverance and reminded me that no obstacle is too great when you are committed to achieving your goals.
We’ve been impressed with Dorado Animal Hospital & Surgical Center, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Dorado Animal Hospital & Surgical Center is my first privately owned veterinary practice, located in Oceanside, California. As a companion animal veterinarian, I provide comprehensive veterinary care with a strong focus on general medicine and surgery. Our services include wellness and preventive care, vaccinations, diagnostic testing, dentistry, soft tissue surgery, spay and neuter procedures, pain management, and personalized treatment plans designed to meet each pet’s specific needs. My goal is not only to treat pets, but also to educate and empower their owners to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
Client education and transparency are at the heart of my practice. I take pride in being an advocate for every patient while helping maintain and strengthen the human-animal bond. Before any procedure, especially surgery, I remind myself how important that pet is to an individual or an entire family. That perspective guides the care I provide.
What sets Dorado Animal Hospital & Surgical Center apart is the personal connection I build with both pets and their families. There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing a pet regain its health and comfort and witnessing the happiness and peace of mind that brings to its owners. Ultimately, what I love most about veterinary medicine is being part of the human-animal bond and helping families care for their beloved companions.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice is to stay open to learning from everyone you meet and never be afraid to ask questions. Some of the most important mentors in my career were people I met simply by getting involved, showing genuine interest, and being willing to learn. I believe networking is less about collecting contacts and more about building genuine relationships.
I also encourage others to seek opportunities to work alongside veterinarians they admire, attend professional events, and stay connected with colleagues. Mentorship has been incredibly valuable throughout my career because I’ve learned not only from other veterinarians’ knowledge and experience, but also from how they approach their patients, clients, and careers.
Most importantly, be willing to help others along the way. The relationships you build throughout your career can become a valuable source of guidance, support, and opportunities for years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.doradohospital.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doradoanimalhosp
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doradoanimalhospital
