Meet the Ortega Animal Care Center team - proudly serving the pets of San Juan Capistrano!
Dr. Brent Utterback, DVM is dedicated to extending both the lifespan and quality of life of his patients through proactive medicine, advanced nutrition, and integrative care. With passions in internal medicine, preventative care, and physical therapy, he focuses on helping pets not just live longer, but thrive.
He went to Veterinary school at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and completed his clinical year at the University of Florida. Having been part of the Ortega Animal Care Center team before Veterinary school, Dr. Brent has known the doctors here for over a decade. Now, as a Veterinarian, he blends innovative treatments with proven, evidence-based strategies to promote lifelong vitality.
His passion for healthy aging extends to his own dog, Kratos, a 10-year-old Husky who still excels at long range, high-difficulty hikes. Dr. Brent believes the right care can help pets exceed previously held expectations for aging.
Outside the clinic, he enjoys hiking, nature, traveling, fitness, and mixed martial arts.
Dr. Urszula Wisniewska is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help pets live long, healthy lives. She has special interests in cardiology, internal medicine, and preventive medicine. Dr. Wisniewska enjoys getting to know each family and their pet, working together to develop treatment plans that align with both the pet's medical needs and the family's goals. She believes that clear communication, preventive care, and client education are the foundation of excellent veterinary medicine.
Dr. Wisniewska earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. Following graduation, she completed a one-year rotating internship before pursuing advanced specialty training through a cardiology specialty internship, where she gained extensive experience managing both congenital and acquired heart disease alongside a board-certified veterinary cardiologist. She is excited to bring this advanced training to Ortega Animal Care Center, helping patients receive comprehensive, personalized care throughout every stage of life.
Outside of the hospital, Dr. Wisniewska enjoys swimming, traveling, exploring Southern California, and spending time with family and friends.
