Named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Animal Hospitals 2026
If outside the area, please call your nearest emergency vet.
We’re proud to share some exciting news: Veterinary Surgical Specialists has been named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Animal Hospitals 2026 list, developed in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group.
For our team, this recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the experiences and recommendations of pet owners. The 2026 list recognizes animal hospitals across the country based on factors including recommendations from pet owners, quality of care, customer service, and pricing and affordability. Hospitals accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) also received additional consideration as part of the evaluation.
“We’re honored to be recognized among America’s Best Animal Hospitals,” said Hospital Director Sean Gastelum. “This recognition belongs to every member of our surgical and support teams who works each day to provide exceptional care while making sure every pet and family feels supported throughout their experience with us.”

A Commitment to Specialized Surgical Care
Since 1990, VSS has partnered with primary care veterinarians throughout Southern California to provide advanced surgical care for pets. Our team of board-certified veterinary surgeons brings more than 70 years of combined experience to the practice, along with expertise in some of the most complex surgical procedures in veterinary medicine.
We’re continually investing in advanced technology, equipment and minimally invasive surgical techniques to expand the options available to our patients and the veterinarians who refer them to us.
Thank You to the Pet Families and Veterinary Teams Who Trust Us
Being named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Animal Hospitals 2026 is an opportunity to celebrate the people who make our work possible: the pets we care for, the families who entrust them to us, and the primary care veterinarians who partner with our team.
We’re grateful to everyone who has placed their trust in VSS over the years. We’ll continue providing specialized surgical care while treating every patient and family with the compassion and respect they deserve - that’s our promise to you.
The information contained in the article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to take the place of the advice of a veterinarian.


