Camp Pendleton’s Veterinary Treatment Facility reopened Jan. 22, larger and better equipped to serve the base’s Military Working Dogs program and pets belonging to the military community.
The opening of the facility was a joint effort between the Marine Corps and Army. The Army is the Department of War’s provider of veterinary services for Military Working Dogs, privately owned animals of service members and food safety and inspection across all branches. Military Working Dogs are part of the Marine Corps Provost Marshals Office.
The Camp Pendleton Army Veterinary Services and Veterinary Treatment Facility is three times the size of the previous facility and was built to provide better access to care, especially for military animals to make sure they are ready for service.
The cost to build the facility was $17.95 million. The project was funded by the Defense Health Agency, which manages the Military Health System.
The facility will be used by both branches of Army Veterinary Services: the Animal Care Team and the Food Protection Team, which both “safeguard military readiness.” The Food Protection Team ensures the quality and safety of food across 150 food facilities for Department of Defense personnel on two area installations at Camp Pendleton and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, according to Camp Pendleton officials.
The Veterinary Care Team serves the base’s Military Working Dog Kennel, Domestic Animal Control and Stepp Stables. The new Veterinary Treatment Facility provides a range of services from preventive care and diagnostic testing to certain surgical procedures.
The hours are from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and Friday at 16090 4th St., Camp Pendleton. The facility is closed on Thursdays.
For questions, call 760-725-3439.