Dr. Beccari’s passion for animals developed at an early age. He grew up in a large family but never owned a dog or cat of his own. He turned to the wildlife that frequently visited his backyard to see what he could keep. Feeding and taming toads, tree squirrels, and random tortoises never really worked out. Eventually, a pair of gerbils, named Rocky and Adrian, made a home in the Beccari household. Family and friends nearby offered Dr. Beccari the opportunity for additional interaction with pets. Being greeted every morning on the way to school by a neighbor’s Shih-Tzu named Mopsy was a big highlight in Dr. B’s day.

Realizing his passion for science and his to desire to own pets really shaped his future in becoming a veterinarian. During college breaks, he worked in a small animal emergency hospital fortifying his decision to become a veterinarian. He graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University in 1995.

During his time at Cornell, he met his wife, Justie. They married in 1995 and headed west to escape the freezing cold in search of a new home and career.

They purchased AAH in 1999 and welcomed 2 additional partners in 2007. He wears many hats around the hospital including handyman and computer guru. His greatest passion lies in examining pets and getting to the bottom of what ails them. Ultrasound, dental procedures, intestinal surgeries are just a few of Dr. Beccari’s skills.

Dr. Beccari now has a large family of his own, most members being animals. He has 2 beautiful daughters, Madeleine and Alexandra and 8 pets collectively (not including the koi fish in their pond at home). In his time off Dr. B enjoys being with his family, hiking, traveling, camping, and exploring new places. He is also learning to play the guitar.

Dr. David Zanders (Dr. Z) grew up in the suburbs of Kansas City, Kansas. He frequently visited his friend’s family farm where he developed a caring connection with dogs, cats, horses, and other farm livestock. He made his decision to become a veterinarian after his personal horse broke her leg and, in spite of veterinary care, had to be euthanized. It was at that moment that he learned that veterinarians not only care for animals but for the people who are committed to those helpless creatures.

After only 2 years of undergrad, Dr. Z was lucky enough to get accepted into the veterinary program at Kansas State University, where he received his degree in 1976. Shortly after graduating Dr. Zanders decided to escape the cold and moved to San Diego to begin his career as a small animal veterinarian (he saw and treated large animals for 4 years too!).

Dr. Zanders is a partner at Academy Animal Hospital. His true passion lies in providing excellent preventative care for his patients. He treats all his clients like family (he has been known to call on weekends and holidays) and his patients like one of his own pets.

Dr. Z shares his home with his wife, Lyn, 1 dog (Eli), 2 cats (Trudy and Stuart), and 15-year-old goldfish named Guy. He has 2 daughters, Sophie who lives in Los Angeles, and Jennifer, a child psychiatrist in San Diego, and a grandson, Eli. During his spare time, Dr. Z enjoys playing his banjo and guitar with his band, playing golf, and visiting family. He served on the board of the Escondido Humane Society for 14 years and was president of the board for 2 years. He was also involved in the Spay/Neuter Program of San Diego for low-income households.

His interest in science and medicine combined with his passion for animals naturally drew Danny to the veterinary field. He grew up with pocket pets, but could often be found pet sitting for his neighbors. Danny started at Academy at the ripe old age of 16 and has never left! He has truly dedicated his life to making pets as comfortable and healthy as possible. Danny can be found assisting the doctor, making sure our systems are working properly and engaging with clients.

Growing up right here in Solana Beach, Danny first started his journey helping out and learning as much as he could. Through his time and experience, Danny became a veterinary assistant and eventually was able to achieve his RVT license. He currently lives with his girlfriend, Debbie, and their daughter, Lily (who shares her dad’s passion for animals.) Together they enjoy going to the beach and the San Diego Zoo. Their four-legged family members include 2 cats, Raziel (who will steal your food), and Ariel (who is constantly begging for food) and 1 dog named Louie (who has perfected the art of begging).

Born and raised in El Centro, Ca, Tracy attended Pima Medical Institute and got her certification as a Veterinary Assistant. She lives with her boyfriend, Hector, and their son, Christian. Tracy has 2 cats, Vasily and Suki, both of whom are rescues, and Coco, a cockatiel. She is passionate about her favorite sports team, the San Diego Padres, and loves watching and attending sports events. She has played the clarinet, bass, sax, and guitarron in various bands of different genres over the years including jazz, rock, and mariachi.