Downtown Animal Hospital

Free First Exam

Claim your Free First Exam Certificate today for a healthy start for your pet!
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Accepting New Patients

Every visit brings trusted, high-quality care for your pet - delivered by a local team that supports you every step of the way.
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myVCA

Book appointments, access medical records, + 24/7 Live Chat with a veterinary professional - all with the myVCA app.
VCA Canada Recognized as One of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People 2026

Top Employers for Young People 2026

VCA Canada has been named as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People for 2026
Downtown Animal Hospital

Featured Services

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Dentistry
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Diagnostics
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Nutrition
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Pharmacy
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Primary Care
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Radiology
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Surgery
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Wellness & Preventative Care

Caring For Life's Greatest Companions

At VCA Canada, we're pet people too. We understand the importance of your morning snuggles and the tail-wagging excitement when you come through the door, even if you're only gone for five minutes.

Your pets are always there for you, so we are always here for them.

Downtown Animal Hospital

We are a team of passionate professionals who understand your love for your pet. To this end we focus not only on the physical aspects of your pets needs but also the emotional well being. To this end, we decided to add to our ongoing AAHA certification and in April 2018 became Canada’s First Fear-Free Certified Practice.

At Downtown Animal Hospital most of us have pets at home, so we know exactly how important your pet is to you! We are passionate about building relationships with every four-legged family member who walks through our doors and in ensuring they stay happy, healthy and by your side for as long as possible.

Downtown Animal Hospital is a leading edge veterinary clinic servicing central Toronto. We believe in harnessing the latest innovations in equipment, medicine and procedures to ensure your pet receives only the highest quality in health care.

Downtown Animal Hospital was established in 1986 in an elegant old townhouse on Hayden Street in Toronto. In 1992, Drs John Catherwood and Sheldon Jafine purchased the practice. With extended hours and a dedicated staff the practice soon became too busy for its original building.

To accommodate their rapidly expanding client base in 1996, the duo purchased and renovated an old mansion on Church Street into the current Downtown Animal Hospital. Dr. Lula Vihos became partner in June 2007 and the practice has experienced yet another growth surge since then. There are currently 5 doctors and 20 support staff serving their clients and their pets. The Downtown Animal Hospital is an accredited member of the American Animal Hospital Association and a proud proponent of diversity in its vibrant community.

Thank you to our wonderfully eclectic clients whose support and referrals continue to help us grow in downtown Toronto. We love you and your fabulous pets and deeply appreciate your patronage. We will always remain committed to providing you the very best value for the very best in pet health care.

Our goal is to deliver leading edge health care to your pet.

We believe that excellence is the cornerstone of our practice and we abide only by the highest standards. We’re pet owners too, and we know the value a pet brings to your life, that’s why we focus on preventive medicine as the benchmark for superior veterinary care.

It’s normal to be curious about who will be caring for your pet. That’s why we invite you to meet our team right from the comfort of your computer!

Frequently Asked Questions

It is recommended to take your pet for an annual check-up each year. Senior pets or those with specific health conditions may require more frequent visits.

Consult with our hospital team for personalized recommendations.

We can only see urgent care patients during our regular business hours. Please call us in an emergency to discuss any concerns so we can prepare for your arrival. Should your pet require immediate medical attention after our regular hours, please remain calm and click the emergency button at the top of your screen.

Yes!

Please call 416-966-5122 us or book online today.

Obesity can lead to various health issues in pets. Feeding them a proper diet, monitoring portion sizes, and engaging in regular exercise are key. Our Veterinarians can guide you on weight management techniques specific to your pet.
myvca
myVCA makes it easier for you to stay connected and manage your pet’s health care:
  • Access Live Chat with a veterinary professional anytime, day or night
  • Download important documents including care instructions, lab results, and vaccine records
  • Quickly book an appointment at your preferred hospital 
  • Never forget a dose with medication reminders
  • Receive real-time reminder notifications for healthcare services
  • Access tailored information including pet and breed specific content
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