Deanna O’Neil,
DVM, CVA, CCRT

South Bay Paws Up is a mobile veterinary practice that specializes in rehabilitation and acupuncture from the comfort of your home to minimize stress for your pet (and their human). Owner Deanna O’Neil, DVM, started South Bay Paws Up after the COVID-19 pandemic changed the dynamics of veterinary in-clinic visits. She has specialized in pet rehabilitation and acupuncture for 10 years.

Dr. O’Neil grew up in Palos Verdes Estates and graduated from Peninsula High School. She earned her undergraduate degree from Fordham University and then her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota. 

After returning to Southern California, she completed an internship at a specialty veterinary hospital and achieved her certification in veterinary acupuncture from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. She became a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute and completed an internship in canine rehab at the Animal Rehabilitation Center in Velm, Belgium.  

After working at two Southern California pet rehabilitation clinics, she established South Bay Paws Up in 2021.

What inspired you to pursue this career?

I have always had pets since I was little. My decision to become a veterinarian was easy, as it fulfilled my desire to help these wonderful creatures. It is amazing how resilient they can be, even when it appears the cards are stacked against them. I have witnessed so many cases where owners feel their pet is at the end of their rope because of a back or hip issue. Well, guess what? Give rehabilitation and acupuncture a try! 

I love the hands-on aspect of my job and the ability to improve a pet’s quality of life. Almost every day I have an owner thank me for helping their pet walk again or, with geriatric animals, for giving owners more quality time with their pet.

What led you to open your mobile Veterinary practice?

My previous experience working in pet rehabilitation clinics was very rewarding. However, when COVID-19 protocols started, clients had to drop off their pets for appointments—giving me very little face-to-face communication with owners. I believe working with the owners and educating them about the rehabilitation process is key to positive outcomes. I have found that with traveling to my patients’ homes, the client is involved, educated and motivated toward a common, realistic goal. This experience is very rewarding for all involved.

What conditions do you treat?

Some common conditions I treat are arthritis, intervertebral disc disease, neck and back pain, limping, post-op orthopedic and neurological conditions, hip and elbow dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament disease, and difficulty with walking or rising. I treat a wide range of pets—from puppies with congenital conditions to working dogs with injuries and geriatric dogs who have pelvic limb weakness.  

In what ways do you stand out?

South Bay Paws Up is exclusive to home visits, which means I come to you! Your pet does not have to travel to a clinic for their rehabilitation needs. I find that pets are more relaxed in their home, which allows for better sessions and better outcomes. 

Home visits also allow me to assess and evaluate your pet’s home environment. Sometimes something as simple as adding traction and raising food bowls makes a huge difference. 

Also, having direct access to your pet’s veterinarian is unique these days. My clients have my cell phone number and can contact me directly with any questions or concerns regarding their pet’s rehabilitation program. They also have one-on-one time with me during their pet’s appointment.  

Speak about the importance of community and the impact it has had on your business.

The South Bay is home, and I started this business knowing I could help the pets of my community. My clients and colleagues in the South Bay have been very supportive, which has helped my business grow via word of mouth. It’s been great getting to know so many wonderful and loving pet parents here in the South Bay. I have made some lifelong friends! 

Describe your dream client.

My dream client is somebody who gets it. Much like physical therapy for people, rehabilitation for pets takes time. When owners are willing participants in their pet’s rehabilitation process, it makes a huge difference. I would love to tell Fido he needs to do his own exercises and icing while watching TV, but the reality is that Fido can’t do it on his own. Having that extra help from pet parents in between rehabilitation appointments can enhance and accelerate the recovery process.

Whom do you credit for your success?

My family! I am so fortunate to have a very strong, supportive family. Especially my very patient, loving spouse who helps me run my business. There is a lot that happens behind the scenes as far as scheduling, bookkeeping, etc., and I am lucky to have all that happen under one roof