Latest News: Welcome Dr. Sophie Steele

July 18th, 2008 by Dave Oei, General Manager

Dr. Sophie SteeleStarting February 1, 2008, we’re proud to have Dr. Sophie Steele join our esteemed veterinary team.

Dr. Sophie Steele is an accredited veterinarian with over 8 years of experience working mostly in San Diego county. She attended the University of California at Davis where she earned a B.S. in Animal Sciences in 1995, then completed her veterinary degree at U.C. Davis in 1999. Over time, Dr. Steele has developed a special interest in soft tissue surgery, dentistry and ophthalmology, and works mostly with dogs and cats.

Prior to joining RSFVets, she and her husband Dr. Brad Steele constructed a state-of-the-art animal hospital and pet hotel in North County. In 2006, the Steele’s sold their practice to allow more time for family, travel, and seeking out new professional endeavors.

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Latest News: A Rattler’s Nasty Bite

July 17th, 2008 by Dr. Deirdre Brandes

Mrs. Rosner was frantic when she called to report that their cocker spaniel, Monty, had just appeared at the back door with a baby rattlesnake in his mouth. She and her husband were pretty sure that it had bitten him on the muzzle, so they rushed Monty to our hospital right away. As I entered the treatment area, I could see that Monty was panting and uncomfortable. After carefully examining him for any puncture wounds that might indicate a snake bite, I noticed two tiny spots of blood on his muzzle.


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A Bit About Us
Rancho Santa Fe Veterinary Hospital was established in 2005 by Dr. Deirdre Brandes as a general practice hospital located at the esteemed Helen Woodward Animal Center.

Since, we've helped thousands of patients by providing an array of services, ranging from puppy and kitten examinations, to complex oral surgery.

Our mission is simple: Provide extraordinary care for all patients, excellent service for all clients, all at a great value.


Rancho Santa Fe Veterinary Hospital at Helen Woodward Animal Center
And, while we're located in Rancho Santa Fe, we currently provide services to the pets of many surrounding communities across San Diego (and even Los Angeles).

Our Veterinarians


Dr. Deirdre Brandes posing with Neo. She's a graduate of Cornell's Veterinary School and our hospital's founder. An animal lover and owner of hard-luck cases, Dr. Brandes is also a mother of two rambunctious boys.

Dr. Anaika Dayton posing with Hobbart. Dr. Dayton graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2001.

Dr. Sophie Steele recently joined our hospital in February of 2008, and has previously worked with Dr. Brandes. She received her veterinary degree from the University of California at Davis in 1999.


Quality of Care

Rancho Santa Fe Veterinary Hospital's select group of veterinarians and staff share a number of traits that make them great animal care professionals. First, they practice uncompromising quality animal health care. The hospital has provided them with all the tools, such as advanced ultrasound and digital radiography, to ensure they can provide top-notch care for your pet.

Second, they are caring, compassionate animal lovers and owners. Find out more about our fantastic set of vets and staff and their pets.

Finally, our staff is dedicated to ensuring you and your pets receive only excellent service. In a nutshell, we would be honored to be your pet's veterinarian!

A Proud Neighbor
The Helen Woodward Animal Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the philosophy of "people helping animals and animals helping people." Our philosophy is very similar, and are proud to work alongside them.

As an example, in 2006 and again in 2007, Rancho Santa Fe Veterinary Hospital has sponsored, "Vet for a Day", where 6th and 7th grade students from HWAC's Critter Camp try their hands on virtual surgeries and pet exams.