Sunshine Animal Hospital in Tampa, FL – Premier Care for Anxious Pets & All Companions

Sunshine Animal Hospital Introduce

For pet owners navigating the vibrant landscape of Florida, the quest for a veterinary practice that truly understands and accommodates the unique needs of every animal is paramount. In Tampa, FL, Sunshine Animal Hospital has emerged as a shining example of exceptional veterinary care, particularly recognized for its remarkable ability to create a stress-free environment for even the most anxious of pets, especially cats.

Sunshine Animal Hospital operates with a deep understanding that a visit to the vet can be a daunting experience for many animals. Their philosophy centers on making every interaction as comfortable and positive as possible, prioritizing the emotional well-being of their furry patients alongside their physical health. This commitment to compassionate and personalized care sets them apart, making them a trusted choice for pet parents across the Tampa Bay area.

The dedication of Sunshine Animal Hospital is vividly illustrated in the heartfelt testimonials from their satisfied clientele. One pet owner recounted a truly transformative experience with their anxious cat: "I can’t say enough good things about my first visit here today! My cat is an anxious guy and gets very stressed waiting in vet lobbies with loud dogs and he’s super squirmy during any type of examination. I explained his issues over the phone and the staff helped accommodate his needs by letting us wait in the car until a room was ready to avoid having him stressed out waiting around dogs, they did everything with me in the room with him since he’s most comfortable when I’m with him, and they were very patient examining him and giving him injectable meds while he was squirming." This level of tailored accommodation demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to patient comfort and understanding.

The results of this compassionate approach are truly remarkable. The client observed, "My cat has never been the best behaved at the vet but this is the most chill I’ve seen him. He sat on my lap and even started falling asleep in the corner on the floor while we were waiting, which is a night and day difference from him pacing the room stressed and being denied even a basic exam for being 'too difficult' at the humane society animal health center." This powerful anecdote highlights Sunshine Animal Hospital's success in alleviating pet anxiety, creating an environment where even challenging animals can receive necessary care without undue distress.

Beyond the emotional support, the clinic also excels in providing transparent and value-driven medical advice. The same client noted, "He needed to be seen as soon as possible and I was able to easily get an appointment the same day. Cost for the exam and all medications was very reasonable. I appreciate that Dr. Restrepo was thorough and gave me some options and recommendations for treatment and further diagnostics but didn’t push or encourage any of the more expensive labs she didn’t think he needed, and I was able to decide with no pressure." This commitment to providing accessible, same-day appointments, reasonable pricing, and ethical, non-pressured recommendations speaks volumes about their integrity and client-focused approach. Dr. Katherine Restrepo is specifically mentioned as a compassionate and thorough veterinarian, fluent in both English and Spanish, with interests in acupuncture and cold laser therapy.

Another profound aspect of their service that resonated with clients is their equitable treatment of all pets. "It’s nice to finally have found a vet that doesn’t treat cats like a second class pet compared to dogs." This acknowledgement of feline patients as equally important is a refreshing and crucial aspect of modern veterinary care. Long-term clients further solidify the clinic's stellar reputation: "detailed and caring for all of our animals. We felt heard and knew that our animals were and always are in excellent hands. We have been going to Sunshine animal hospital for 15+ years and wouldn't trust anyone else with our beloved fur babies." This long-standing loyalty underscores their consistent delivery of high-quality, trusted care.

Overall, Sunshine Animal Hospital consistently impresses pet owners, earning their trust as "my cat’s new primary vet going forward" and a place where animals "are and always are in excellent hands."

Sunshine Animal Hospital is conveniently located at 8008 W Waters Ave, Tampa, FL 33615, USA. This accessible location on West Waters Avenue makes it an ideal choice for pet owners across Tampa and its surrounding communities, including areas like Town 'n' Country, Citrus Park, and Carrollwood. W Waters Ave is a well-traveled road, ensuring straightforward navigation and easy access for clients from various parts of the city. The clinic's position allows for efficient travel, minimizing the stress and time associated with transporting pets for appointments. Ample parking is available on-site, further contributing to a hassle-free experience from arrival to departure. Its strategic placement within Tampa means that comprehensive and compassionate veterinary care is readily available, providing convenience and peace of mind for local pet owners in Florida.

The clinic's operating hours are also designed for convenience, being open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. While closed on Sundays, this extensive schedule allows for flexible appointment setting, accommodating the busy lives of Florida residents. This accessibility ensures that pets can receive timely care, whether for routine check-ups or unexpected health concerns.

Services Offered

Comprehensive Wellness Exams: Thorough physical examinations to maintain overall health and detect issues early, tailored to each pet's needs.
Preventative Care: Essential vaccinations, comprehensive parasite control (heartworm, fleas, ticks), and proactive health strategies.
Dental Care: Professional dental cleanings, extractions, and oral health assessments to prevent and treat periodontal disease.
Surgical Services: Routine surgeries such as spaying and neutering, as well as various soft tissue and other surgical procedures.
Diagnostic Imaging: In-house X-ray and ultrasound capabilities for rapid and accurate diagnosis of internal conditions.
In-House Laboratory: On-site blood work, urinalysis, and other diagnostic tests for quick results to facilitate timely treatment.
Pain Management: Tailored plans and options to effectively manage and alleviate both acute and chronic pain in pets.
Nutritional Counseling: Expert advice on proper diet and nutrition to support overall health, weight management, and specific dietary needs.
Microchipping: Reliable permanent identification to significantly increase the chances of reuniting with a lost pet.
Senior Pet Care: Specialized health assessments and management plans for aging pets, focusing on comfort and quality of life.
Emergency & Critical Care: Provides care for critical situations during business hours and can guide to emergency facilities when needed.
Pet Boarding: Offers pet boarding services for pet owners needing a safe and monitored place for their animals while away.
Grooming: Provides grooming services to keep pets clean and healthy.

Features / Highlights

Exceptional Care for Anxious Pets: Staff goes above and beyond to accommodate nervous animals, including offering to wait in the car until a room is ready.
Cat-Friendly Environment: Recognized for treating cats as equally important patients, not second-class to dogs, with dedicated approaches to reduce feline stress.
Compassionate and Patient Staff: Team members are highly praised for their kindness, patience, and ability to handle squirmy or anxious pets gently.
Experienced Veterinarians: Dr. Katherine Restrepo and other vets provide thorough examinations, clear explanations, and thoughtful recommendations.
Ethical and Transparent Pricing: Offers reasonable costs and provides options without pressure for expensive, unnecessary diagnostics.
Same-Day Appointment Availability: Ability to accommodate urgent needs with prompt scheduling.
Long-Standing Client Loyalty: Many clients have trusted Sunshine Animal Hospital for over 15 years, indicating consistent high-quality care.
Personalized Attention: Staff ensures pets and owners feel heard and comfortable, fostering a strong bond.
Comprehensive Services: A wide range of medical, surgical, dental, and boarding services available.
Fluency in Spanish: Dr. Restrepo is fluent in Spanish, benefiting a diverse community.

Contact Information

Address: 8008 W Waters Ave, Tampa, FL 33615, USA

Phone: (813) 885-7071

In conclusion, for pet owners throughout Tampa and the wider Florida region, Sunshine Animal Hospital offers an exceptional blend of comprehensive medical expertise and profound compassion. Their dedicated approach to alleviating pet anxiety, particularly for cats, combined with their transparent pricing and the empathetic care provided by their entire team, including Dr. Restrepo, makes them an outstanding choice for all your beloved animal companions' health needs. They don't just treat symptoms; they prioritize the overall well-being and comfort of your pets.

Sunshine Animal Hospital is perfectly suited for locals because they understand the unique needs of Florida's diverse pet population and are committed to building long-term, trusting relationships with families. Their ability to provide same-day appointments, their focus on ethical recommendations, and their consistent, high-quality care, as attested by over 15 years of client loyalty, mean that your pets are always in excellent hands. For Floridians seeking a veterinary partner who prioritizes their pet's emotional and physical health, ensuring stress-free visits and comprehensive care, Sunshine Animal Hospital stands as a highly recommended and reliable option right here in the Sunshine State.

Sunshine Animal Hospital Services

Animal Hospital
Anal Gland Expression
If untreated, impacted anal glands in cats & dogs can lead to discomfort, abscesses or even infection. Our compassionate vet team provides gentle, hygienic anal gland expressions to ease your pet’s discomfort and prevent potential medical complicat
Blood and Lab Testing
Routine early detection bloodwork and lab tests can reveal potential health issues in your pet, unearthing signs of illness or disease. Proactive testing treatment can help your dog or cat live a longer, happier life, and it’s also more cost effect
Broken Bone Setting
A broken bone in your pet can lead to pain, discomfort, and mobility problems. Prompt, accurate bone setting is key to successful healing and reducing long-term complication risks. Trust our experienced veterinarians with your pet’s injury for opti
Cat Boarding
Indulge your cat in a serene and snug escape with our premium boarding services. With our meticulous care, a comfy habitat, and plentiful playtimes, we provide a welcoming second home for your feline friend. Let go of your concerns and give them the
Cat Dental Care
Routine dental care and teeth cleaning are crucial for cats to avert health issues. Plaque and gingivitis, if left unchecked, can cause infections, discomfort, and tooth loss. Count on our veterinary team to provide your feline friend with the essent
Cat Microchip
Each year, many cats unintentionally go missing. A cat microchip provides a safe, reliable method of identification. Combining a tag & microchip increases the chances of a joyful reunion with your lost cat. Let our team equip your cat with a microchi
Cat Surgery
With every surgical procedure, from spaying and neutering to soft tissue procedures and mass removals, our professional vet team prioritizes your cat’s well-being at every moment. We guarantee top-tier surgical care for your feline companion includ
Dog Boarding
Experience peace of mind with our premiere dog boarding services. With professional, compassionate care, on-site veterinarians, and engaging activities, we provide a secure home away from home for dogs of all ages. Entrust our team for an enjoyable,
Dog Dental Care
Just as with humans, dental care is fundamental for dogs. Regular exams, teeth cleaning, and early dental disease treatment can ward off infections, discomfort and tooth loss. Our veterinary team employs gentle, safe procedures to ensure your dog’s
Dog Microchip
Each year, many dogs unintentionally go missing. A dog microchip provides a safe, reliable method of identification. Combining a tag & microchip increases the chances of a joyful reunion with your lost dog. Let our team equip your dog with a microchi
Dog Surgery
Trust in our experienced vet team for your dog’s surgery. From mending wounds and mass removals to spaying and neutering, we prioritize your pup’s comfort and well-being throughout all procedures. We're committed to first-rate surgical treatment
Emergency Vet
Our skilled emergency veterinarians are equipped to diagnose and treat sudden illnesses and injuries in cats and dogs. Offering advanced testing & diagnostics, we ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans, providing your beloved pet with
End of Life Care
As your pet enters their final stages, our compassionate vet team offers gentle, supportive end-of-life care, focusing on managing pain, providing comfort, and monitoring their quality of life. You’re not alone in this emotional journey; we stand r
Euthanasia
In the difficult decision to guide your pet to a peaceful passing, our veterinary team is by your side. We will address all your concerns, including an honest assessment of your pet’s quality of life. Trust in our compassionate vets to ensure a ser
Flea and Tick Treatment
Our veterinary team provides effective flea and tick treatments to keep your pets protected year-round. Ticks & fleas pose serious health risks but our skilled team is here to help your fur baby avoid them when possible and treat them when they can't
Heartworm Treatment
Heartworm disease is a serious condition for both cats and dogs. Our expert veterinarians are dedicated to delivering safe and effective heartworm treatments for your pet when they need it. However, the best treatment for heartworms is prevention. Co
Kitten Vaccines
Kittens need vaccines early in life to build immunity and ward off preventable illnesses. Our experienced veterinarians will create a vaccine schedule safeguarding your kitten from infections and disease, paving the way for a long, healthy life.
Mass Removal
Our vets are highly-trained experts in the removal of abnormal masses in your pets. We recommend mass removal if they jeopardize your pet’s health, cause discomfort or potentially harbor cancer. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early de
Neuter
Neutering your cat or dog is a significant step towards ensuring a healthier life for your furry friend, mitigating potential disease risks and helping with behavioral issues. Trust our experienced veterinarians with your pet's neutering procedure wh
New Pet Exam
Get your new pet on a path to lifelong health with a thorough nose-to-tail exam with our experienced veterinary team. During these exams, we're also here to review your new fur baby's nutrition, wellness prevention and vaccine options. We can't wait
Pet Allergies
Should your pet display symptoms like excessive itching, sneezing, watery eyes, or skin irritation, they might be battling allergies. Our veterinarians are capable of diagnosing and managing your dog or cat's allergies, offering comfort and relief th
Pet Anesthesia
Our veterinarians administer & monitor anesthesia with precision, ensuring your pet’s well-being during procedures. Anesthesia is a critical aspect of vet care, allowing necessary interventions with minimal stress & pain. Trust our team for safe, e
Pet Check Up
Keep your dog or cat in optimal health with our comprehensive nose-to-tail wellness exams and the opportunity for preventive early detection blood tests. Regular pet check-ups are key to preventing serious health problems, so don’t wait to schedule
Pet Health Certificate
Consult with our vet team well ahead of travel or events that require a health certificate for your pet. We provide comprehensive exams, vaccinations and paperwork to satisfy all travel prerequisites and regulatory standards, facilitating a seamless
Pet Hospice
Pet hospice, or end-of-life care, caters to pets in their final stages due to old age, chronic conditions, or illness. Our veterinary team is here to offer professional guidance & emotional support during this challenging time, helping you make tough
Pet Medication
Our comprehensive stock of premium pet medications covers various health needs encompassing flea and tick preventatives, heartworm treatments, and effective medicinal treatments. Our primary commitment is to ensure your furry friend’s optimal healt
Pet Nutrition
Depend on our expert veterinary team for pet nutrition guidance, emphasizing your pet’s health with tailored dietary plans. From weight regulation, managing medical conditions, or general health, we help safeguard your cat or dog’s welfare with a
Pet Parasite Treatment
To protect your furry friend, year-round prevention of ticks, fleas, heartworms and other parasites is crucial. Our experienced vet team can review preventative options to keep your pet protected from pesky parasites, and is also ready with the best
Pet Pharmacy
Through our in-house pharmacy, we're able to provide your pet with the medications they need to recover from an injury or surgery, or resolve a temporary illness. Our pet pharmacy serves as a convenient one-stop solution for your dog or cat’s medic
Pet Surgery
For your pet, routine surgeries such as spaying, neutering, soft tissue procedures and mass removals, are executed with utmost care and expertise by our veterinary team. We put your furry friend's safety and comfort first from beginning to end of sur
Pet Ultrasound
Our veterinarians use pet ultrasounds to non-invasively evaluate your pet’s organs and tissue for potential internal abnormalities. Ultrasound technology aids our team in delivering accurate diagnoses and customizing treatment plans, ensuring your
Pet Vaccinations
Vaccinating your pet is one of the most important things you can do to keep them healthy. Vaccines are crucial in protecting dogs and cats from severe illnesses and infections. Count on our veterinarians for vaccination education and an optimal sched
Pet Wellness Exams
Our pet wellness exams adopt a preventative approach to maintaining your pet’s health and a high-quality life at all ages and stages. With regular, comprehensive check-ups that include nose-to-tail evaluations and age-appropriate assessments, we en
Pet X-rays & Radiology
Should your dog or cat display symptoms of illness or injury, our x-ray and radiology services can help deliver an accurate diagnosis. Safe, non-invasive scans assist in identifying potential fractures, foreign objects & more. Trust our experienced v
Puppy & Kitten Vaccines
Puppies & kittens need vaccines early in life to build immunity and ward off preventable illnesses. Our experienced veterinarians will create a vaccine schedule safeguarding your new fur baby from infections and disease, paving the way for a long, he
Puppy Vaccines
Puppies need vaccines early in life to build immunity and ward off preventable illnesses. Our experienced veterinarians will create a vaccine schedule safeguarding your puppy from infections and disease, paving the way for a long, healthy life.
Rabies Vaccines
The rabies vaccine serves as a crucial safeguard for your pet against this viral disease. Our veterinary team is ready to tackle any queries or apprehensions about your furry friend’s rabies immunization. Ensure your pet’s protection with this re
Senior Pet Care
Our senior pet care focuses on your aging pet’s unique health needs. Regular check-ups can catch age-related issues early, enhancing their quality of life. Our veterinarians curate individualized care plans for your elderly pet, supporting them as
Sick Pet Exam
Our expert veterinarians provide compassionate care for pets suffering from sudden illnesses or injuries. We conduct thorough tests and advanced diagnostics during sick pet exams, creating personalized treatment plans to expedite recovery. Trust us f
Spay
Spaying your dog or cat offers benefits such as preventing unwanted litters, lowering the risk of certain illnesses and reducing roaming behavior. Schedule a pre-surgery exam with our trusted veterinarians to check your pet's health and discuss ideal
Veterinary Dermatology
Pets may have irritant sensitivities, leading to dermatological distress from allergies, autoimmune conditions, dermatitis, infections, parasites, tumors, or skin cancer. Our vet team is equipped to diagnose and provide top-quality treatment for skin
Veterinary Exam
Ensure your pet’s health with a veterinary exam from our highly skilled team. Whether your furry friend needs in-depth treatment for unexpected ailments or routine care, we’re actively engaged in providing the finest services. Trust us to priorit

Sunshine Animal Hospital Details

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom

Amenities
Restroom

Planning
Appointments recommended

Sunshine Animal Hospital Photos

Sunshine Animal Hospital Location

Sunshine Animal Hospital

Florida Hillsborough County Tampa Town N County Park West Waters Avenue

8008 W Waters Ave, Tampa, FL 33615, USA

Sunshine Animal Hospital Reviews

An average rating of ★4.8 from 809 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

I can’t say enough good things about my first visit here today! My cat is an anxious guy and gets very stressed waiting in vet lobbies with loud dogs and he’s super squirmy during any type of examination. I explained his issues over the phone and the staff helped accommodate his needs by letting us wait in the car until a room was ready to avoid having him stressed out waiting around dogs, they did everything with me in the room with him since he’s most comfortable when I’m with him, and they were very patient examining him and giving him injectable meds while he was squirming. My cat has never been the best behaved at the vet but this is the most chill I’ve seen him. He sat on my lap and even started falling asleep in the corner on the floor while we were waiting, which is a night and day difference from him pacing the room stressed and being denied even a basic exam for being “too difficult” at the humane society animal health center.He needed to be seen as soon as possible and I was able to easily get an appointment the same day. Cost for the exam and all medications was very reasonable. I appreciate that Dr. Restrepo was thorough and gave me some options and recommendations for treatment and further diagnostics but didn’t push or encourage any of the more expensive labs she didn’t think he needed, and I was able to decide with no pressure.It’s nice to finally have found a vet that doesn’t treat cats like a second class pet compared to dogs.Overall I’m super impressed and sunshine will be my cat’s new primary vet going forward :)
March 26 · Lakin McEvoy
detailed and caring for all of our animals. We felt heard and knew that our animals were and always are in excellent hands. We have been going to Sunshine animal hospital for 15+ years and wouldn't trust anyone else with our beloved fur babies.
June 21 · Linda Baldwin
I love Sunshine Animal Hospital. The staff is great! And the doctors are awesome. We especially love Dr. Mark Twilla. He always takes such great care of my dogs. He is very detailed and informative with test results and always keeps it real. He calls it as it is, and that's why I trust him with the care of my fur babies.
June 06 · Denise Lebron
We can't say enough great things about Sunshine Animal hospital. All of the vets are great especially Dr. Mark. Very knowledgeable and compassionate and listens to your concerns. We just lost our sweet Cat Casper yesterday and I just couldn't be there but my husband was. Came in to choose the Urns and to get our other cat examined. They all came in to offer condolences with kind words and hugs. And very helpful with helping me to choose. Can't recommend this place enough and so happy our other 2 fur babies will be taken well care of.
June 05 · DAWN Long
Thank you Dr, Bodnar and staff Victoria, Shannon and Sam. You were all wonderful caring for our boys Oscar, Frankie, Bruno and Harley. They are all healing well from their neutering surgery and teeth cleaning on Friday. I really appreciated your patience when I found out that our Care Credit card had been cancelled because we had not used it in quite some time and I had to call them to apply again to be able to get the payment with the 6 month interest free financing. Also your pricing is extremely reasonable which is helpful as I am on disability and my income is limited. Look forward to you all caring for the boys moving forward. Definitely recommend this business to anyone wanting good care for your pets at a reasonable cost.
January 21 · Jeffrey Hall