- Address
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817 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118
- Phone Number
Dr. Paar received her education and training from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, an institution which has a long-standing tradition as a global leader in veterinary medicine education, research, and clinical care. Upon graduating in 2001, she first worked at the famous ASPCA in Manhattan, New York. Soon after, she found her calling and established a career in shelter medicine at a smaller no-kill shelter in Manhattan, where she remained until she moved to San Diego in 2017. Her love of animals was sparked by her first pet, Tigger, a gray tiger cat who was a part of the family before she was born. She adored Tigger and, though she questions whether he appreciated her in return as a new human arrival to his already established family, it was her love for him that ultimately inspired her to become a veterinarian. Dr. Paar has a passion for spay and neuter, and regularly travels to both Mexico and the Caribbean islands to help spay and neuter the strays in order to curb the population and decrease their pain and suffering. When not hard at work, she lives with her partner and their cat, Barley, a Torti who loves to walk outside on a harness and is happiest just sitting in the sun - a simple pleasure which brings relaxation and enjoyment to the entire household.
Dr. Paar works Wednesday- Saturday
Dr. Tugend grew up in Coronado and graduated from Coronado High School. Dr. Tugend is well versed in internal medicine and is an excellent veterinary surgeon. He is an experienced diagnostician and believes in resolving your pet’s illness or injury as quickly and efficiently as possible, for the sake of both you and your pet. Dr. Tugend’s special interests lie in internal medicine, orthopedic and soft tissue surgery, and in maintaining your pet’s pretty smile. Both Dr. Tugend and Purple Paws are excited to make his expertise available to serve Coronado, San Diego County, other local communities and beyond.
Dr. Tugend works Monday-Thursday
Dr. Abi Smith recently graduated from the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. She and her husband are new to San Diego, having moved all the way from Michigan with their Basset Hound, Bill, and Leopard Gecko, Jerry.
Dr. Smith spent most of her childhood outdoors, exploring the natural world around her. With her parents' encouragement, her passion for animals and the environment blossomed, inspiring her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. During her undergraduate studies, her passions drove her to behavioral research on tigers, lions, and Canada lynxes at a zoo, aiming to improve their welfare.
In veterinary school, Dr. Smith’s professional interests expanded to include exotic/zoo animal medicine, pocket pet medicine, and veterinary pathology (the study of diseases). Her top two favorite clinical rotations were the zoo/wildlife clerkship and a sea turtle rehabilitation internship, and she can’t wait to keep learning! She is also passionate about community outreach and is eager to hear what pet owners and community members are interested in learning.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Smith enjoys vintage swing dancing and exploring nature through running, hiking, rock-collecting and bird-watching.
