New Patients Welcome — Veterinarian Accepting New Patients in Lake Forest, CA
Thoughtful veterinary care for dogs and cats in Lake Forest.
New Patient Offer
Your First Exam Is Free
A comprehensive nose-to-tail physical exam, a conversation about your pet's health, and a clear plan forward — at no cost for new patients.
New Patient Form
Most new clients finish in under 2 minutes.
No-pressure promise: Submitting this form is just a request — there's no commitment. We'll reach out to confirm availability and answer any questions before scheduling.
Your Free First Exam Includes
Regular: $75Free exam applies to first visit for new patients only.
What to Bring
- Your pet on a leash or in a carrier
- Any previous medical records (helpful, not required)
- Current medications or supplements
- Questions or concerns you'd like to discuss
No records? No problem — we won't delay your free exam.
Prefer to call? (949) 837-5222
Why Lake Forest Families Choose El Toro
Finding the right veterinarian matters. Here's what sets our practice apart.
20+ Years Serving This Community
El Toro Animal Hospital has been caring for pets in Lake Forest and surrounding Orange County communities for over two decades. That experience means fewer surprises, better judgment, and a team that's seen it all.
One Veterinarian, Start to Finish
Your pet isn't passed between rotating doctors. The same veterinarian sees your pet, reviews every result, explains every finding, and builds a relationship with your family over time.
Same-Day Answers, Not Waiting Games
With in-house diagnostics — digital X-rays, blood work, and ultrasound — most results are ready during your visit. No waiting days for answers.
Honest, Transparent Care
We discuss costs before any treatment, explain what we recommend and why, and never push unnecessary services. You'll always know the plan and the price before we proceed.
"Dr. Paul and his team provide incredible veterinarian services, hands down best vet facility I have used. Their customer service and level of care for pets is unmatched."
Omar E.
Google Review
"He was so patient with all my questions and he took the time to explain everything so clearly. You can tell they truly love what they do. I wouldn't trust anyone else."
Lisette S.
Google Review
"My little Coco was always so nervous about going to the vet but Dr. Paul was truly a great doctor that takes the proper care for his patients, made Coco's experience so much better."
Christopher B.
Google Review
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first appointment typically takes 30–45 minutes. Here's how it works.
Check-In & History
We'll ask about your pet's health history, diet, medications, any current concerns, and what you're looking for in a veterinarian. This helps us understand the full picture from day one.
Nose-to-Tail Physical Exam
Your veterinarian performs a comprehensive examination — eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, skin, joints, and abdomen. You stay with your pet and we explain what we're checking and why as we go.
Discussion & Recommendations
We'll discuss our findings in plain language, talk through any recommended vaccinations, diagnostics, or preventive care, and answer every question you have. Nothing happens without your understanding and approval.
Clear Plan & Next Steps
Before you leave, you'll have a clear understanding of your pet's health, any follow-up needed, and when to schedule your next visit. No confusion, no unanswered questions.
Comprehensive Care for Dogs & Cats
From routine wellness to advanced diagnostics, everything your pet needs under one roof.
Wellness & Preventive Care
Annual exams, senior wellness, and preventive screening to keep your pet healthy.
Learn more →Vaccinations
Core and lifestyle vaccines for dogs and cats, tailored to your pet's risk factors.
Learn more →Diagnostics
In-house lab, digital X-rays, and ultrasound with same-day results.
Learn more →Dental Care
Professional cleanings, dental X-rays, and oral health evaluations.
Learn more →Spay & Neuter
Safe surgical procedures with advanced anesthesia monitoring and pain management.
Learn more →Surgery & Urgent Care
Soft tissue surgery, tumor removal, and same-day urgent care during office hours.
Learn more →Preparing for Your Visit
What to Bring
- Your pet on a leash or in a carrier
- Any previous medical records (helpful, not required)
- List of current medications or supplements
- Questions or concerns you'd like to discuss
Transferring Records
Transferring from another vet? Just give us their clinic name in the form above and we'll do the legwork — we'll call them directly and make sure your pet's history is ready before your first appointment.
You can also email records to staff@eltorovet.com or bring a printed copy. Either way, records are helpful but not required for your first visit.
Parking & Arrival
Free parking is available behind the building. Plan to arrive about 5 minutes early for your first visit. We're located at 23162 El Toro Frontage Road in Lake Forest.
Pricing & Payment
First exam (new patients): FREE
Regular wellness exams: $75
We accept credit/debit cards and CareCredit
Any additional recommended services — vaccines, lab work, or treatments — are discussed with clear cost estimates before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Meet Your New Vet?
Your first exam is free, and we'd love to welcome your family to El Toro Animal Hospital.
23162 El Toro Frontage Road
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Monday–Friday · 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Free parking behind building
Get Directions →El Toro Animal Hospital proudly serves pet families in Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Foothill Ranch, Portola Hills, and Rancho Santa Margarita. Visit us at 23162 El Toro Frontage Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630.
Medically reviewed by our veterinary team · Updated February 2026