Passion. Purpose. Calling.

I have always loved animals and felt most happy when surrounded by nature, at school biology and science were always my preferred subjects so Veterinary medicine became the only profession that would truly interest me. During my school years I dived deep into wildlife medicine working for the Zoo of Madrid, volunteering at numerous Wildlife rescue centers and doing research in Bone grafting for orthopedic surgeries in birds. It was this vocation that led me to come to California for a small stay at the prestigious Marine Mammal Center of Sausalito, Ca. It was at this point that when a Motorcycle accident forced me to pause my life for a few months, I decided to re-focus my professional interests into Small Animal Care but maintain my interests in Surgery and Orthopedics.

When I’m not at work I try to spend the most time possible with my Wife, two sons and two dogs going out on hikes, walks through the beach, Yoga or Bicycle rides.

Ever since childhood, I’ve been captivated by animals and the sciences—biology and music shaped my early academic path. After earning degrees in both music and biology, I spent time conducting ecology research and even freelanced as a professional French horn player. While studying parasitic diseases in wild birds, I delved into veterinary literature and discovered my true calling. Today, as Medical Director at PCAH, my heart lies in surgery and dentistry—there’s nothing more rewarding than transforming a sick or injured patient into a healthy, happy one. I thrive on learning every day, collaborating with colleagues to solve complex cases, educating pet parents, and mentoring the team. Guided by the belief that “everyone is doing the best they can,” I approach each case—and every person and pet—with compassion, creativity, and an open mind. Outside the clinic, you’ll find me exploring the outdoors with my husband, daughter, and our two dogs.

Dr. Manzanares has been passionate about biological sciences since high school and always knew she wanted a career that combined her love of science with working closely with animals. Veterinary medicine was the perfect fit.

She enjoys the supportive, collaborative environment at Primary Care Animal Hospital and loves being able to help animals every day. As a newer doctor, she’s looking forward to growing her skills—especially in the area of ultrasonography.

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Manzanares enjoys hiking, biking, reading, watching movies, and spending time outdoors.

Bio Coming Soon!

I was born in Lima, Peru and grew up in Venezuela where I graduated from the Central University of Venezuela and then completed an internship in internal medicine. I have been a part of the Primary Care Team since 2015 and I feel blessed to have enjoyed the company of dozens of dogs and cats. Why did I become a veterinarian? Since I was a little kid, we always had dogs at home, my dad took me frequently to dog shows and he had several veterinarian friends. I still remember going to their animal hospitals to visit and when I saw how they help the dogs and cats, I knew right away that I wanted to do that, I was immediately hooked. As I’ve become a veterinarian, I love that because pets don’t tell their owners if something is uncomfortable or wrong, I feel that the more pets I am able to examine the more are going to be more comfortable and happier at home with their families. I truly find great satisfaction in that. My favorite part of my work day are those moments where I just take a few seconds and think, “how cool is this”; I’m living the dream and I love what I do. My favorite particular interests in veterinary medicine are dentistry, soft tissue surgery, and preventive medicine. A code I faithfully live by at work is always trying to offer the best care to my patients and clients according to their own circumstances. Outside of work, I am passionate about sports ranging from the NBA, MLB, playing tennis, basketball, soccer, jogging; participating in the LA marathon is high up on my bucket list! In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends.

Bio Coming Soon!

Dr. Laurel Nakata is a Long Beach born and raised native. She graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts after finishing up her clinical year at Colorado State University. After graduating, Dr. Nakata returned back to Colorado where she went on to complete her internship at a small animal emergency hospital. In 2019, she decided to move back home to her roots in sunny Southern California. Dr. Nakata enjoys all things adventure and outdoor-related! She spends most of her freetime either taking long walks with her dog, enjoying time by the pool, or exploring the trails on her bike. When she is not hard at work or busy adventuring outdoors, she spends her time lounging at home with her island dog, Isley, and island cat, Harley.

Primary Care Animal Hospital is pleased to welcome our newest addition to our veterinarian team, Dr. Maria Tellez! Dr. Maria has graduated from Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and has pursued her veterinary career in Long Beach, California by interning with our hospital since June of 2022. Her unwavering passion for animals blossomed when she was 12 years old through her first loyal pet, Chipo, a black Labrador. Since then, her love and care for the aid of animals has only grown stronger, ultimately deciding to dedicate her career to serving those we all consider our extended furry family members!

As a veterinarian, Dr. Maria has grown particularly a deep interest in orthopedics focusing primarily on patella, hip, and ACL surgeries. Outside of the hospital, she finds joy in the company of friends and spends quality time with her cat, Emiliano Mantequilla. Dr. Maria is fully dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of your cherished furry friends. With a strong commitment to optimal patient care, you can be confident that your pets will receive the highest level of attention and veterinary care from Dr. Maria.

Dr Natalie Magallanes is the newest addition to the PCAH team. She is a California native and graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Western University in 2016. She has a special interest in internal medicine and is passionate about strengthening the human-animal bond. A true animal fanatic, Dr Magallanes and her husband live in Orange County with their 5 dogs and 2 cats. When she’s not busy caring for animals she enjoys traveling, Kings games and Disneyland!