Meet the Team at Aloha Animal Hospital
The doctors and staff at Aloha Animal Hospital bring decades of combined veterinary experience to every appointment, and several of our team members hold Fear Free certification, meaning they’re specially trained to reduce your pet’s stress and anxiety during visits. Every member of our Vista, CA team is selected not only for clinical skill, but for genuine compassion toward the animals and families we serve.
Request an AppointmentDr. John Abella
Diplomate, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (Canine and Feline)
Certified Veterinary Medical Acupuncturist
Dr. Abella received his Bachelor of Arts degree (BA) with academic distinction from the University of Hawaii in 1986. He subsequently received his doctorate of veterinary medicine (DVM) from Colorado State University in 1993. He then completed an extensive medical & surgical internship at VCA West LA Animal Hospital among a variety of veterinary specialists. With his attainment of diplomate status with the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, Dr. Abella provides a board certified practitioner’s medical and surgical knowledge for your cats and dogs. There are fewer than 10 veterinary general practitioners in the county who hold this distinction. Dr. Abella is also certified as a Veterinary Medical Acupuncturist, PennHip practitioner, Hill’s nutrition consultant, and a stem cell advocate trained with VetStem®. He has served over 150 practices throughout Hawaii and California as an independent contractor emphasizing critical and emergency care. Dr. Abella is also an accomplished ceramacist and enjoys golf, surfing, and soccer.
Our veterinarians combine ongoing continuing education with hands-on experience across internal medicine, surgery, dentistry, and diagnostic imaging, so your pet benefits from a genuinely well-rounded care team. Our support staff, including licensed veterinary technicians and client care coordinators, work closely with our doctors to make sure every visit runs smoothly, from check-in to discharge instructions.
Dr. Craig Zelles
Dr. Zelles received his Bachelor of Arts degree in zoology from the University of California at Santa Barbara in 1987. He then worked as a veterinary technician for several years in Los Angeles attaining significant experience in endoscopic gastroenterology. He went on to receive his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at the prestigious University of California at Davis’ School of Veterinary Medicine in 1994. During his doctoral studies, he gained additional extensive ultrasound and radiology training under the direct supervision of one of the pioneers of veterinary ultrasound. His exceptional skill as a surgeon earned him a surgical scholarship in 1993. Since entering general clinical practice in 1994, Dr. Zelles has amassed invaluable surgical, ultrasonographic, and endoscopic experience. Helping people and their animals is Dr. Zelles’ greatest professional joy. His greatest personal joys are his wife Jennifer, his daughter Catalina, surfing, sailing, triathlon, and playing the guitar.
Whether your pet is coming in for a routine wellness exam or a more complex surgical procedure, you can expect the same familiar faces and attentive care that Aloha Animal Hospital has offered the Vista, CA community for over two decades. To meet our team in person, call us at (760) 724-8313 to schedule your pet’s next appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is your veterinary staff Fear Free certified?
Several members of our team hold Fear Free certification, which means they use specific handling and environmental techniques designed to lower your pet’s stress and anxiety during visits.
How many veterinarians work at Aloha Animal Hospital?
Our hospital operates as a multi-doctor practice, giving clients continuity of care even when their regular veterinarian isn’t available.
Do the same technicians work with the same veterinarians?
Our veterinary technicians work closely alongside our doctors on a regular basis, which helps our team stay familiar with your pet’s history and preferences.
Can I request a specific veterinarian for my pet’s appointment?
Yes, when you call (760) 724-8313 to schedule, let our front office know if you’d like to see a particular doctor and we’ll do our best to accommodate the request.
What kind of ongoing training does your team receive?
Our doctors and staff regularly pursue continuing education in areas like internal medicine, surgery, dentistry, and low-stress handling to keep our care current with the latest veterinary standards.
Ready to Schedule an Appointment?
Don’t wait to give your pet the care they deserve. Contact Aloha Animal Hospital today at (760) 724-8313, or use the button below to request an appointment online.
Request an Appointment
