Our Practice
La Costa Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary medical facility, located in Carlsbad, CA. The professional and courteous staff at La Costa Animal Hospital seeks to provide the best possible medical care, surgical care and dental care for their highly-valued patients. Our hospital has advanced equipment and technologies, including comprehensive in-house testing for accurate diagnosis, digital x-ray, surgical suite, dental equipment, and a full pharmacy. We are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for our clients at every stage of your pet's life. From routine preventive care to early detection and treatment of a wide range of conditions and diseases, we have the expertise to provide the highest standard of care for your pet. We also serve Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Cardiff, Leucadia, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe and surrounding areas.
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Dr. Michael J. Schatzle, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Schatzle (pronounced Shats-Lee) was awarded his Doctor in Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University in 2003. He excelled in his studies while at CSU to graduate first in his class of 134. He graduated Summa Cum Laude and was a member of the exclusive Phi Zeta Honor Society.
Upon graduation, Dr Schatzle moved back to his native San Diego to pursue his career in veterinary medicine. He joined La Costa Animal Hospital in 2004 as an associate veterinarian; and with his purchase of La Costa Animal Hospital in January 2007, Dr. Schatzle became lead veterinarian and chief medical director of the practice. Dr. Schatzle is an active member of the American, California, and San Diego Veterinary Medical Associations as well as the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Association of Feline Practitioners. Dr. Schatzle is an extraordinarily dedicated veterinarian whose intelligence, attention to detail, and patience have won him the endless praise of his clients. He takes communication very seriously and devotes whatever time is necessary to assure that his clients understand their pet’s condition. He feels that this is vital in order for owners to make educated decisions about their loved ones’ care. His love for the animals he treats and his genuine concern for their owners shine through on a daily basis.
In his spare time, Dr. Schatzle enjoys cooking, gardening, catching a good movie, and rooting on the San Diego Padres. He currently lives in Carmel Valley with his wife, two daughters and their rescued terrier, Hoover, who can often be found performing tricks at the hospital.
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Dr. Fife, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Fife is originally from Tremonton, Utah and earned her bachelor’s degree from BYU. She went onto Washington State University where she graduated from veterinary school. Dr. Fife is fear-free certified and her favorite part of veterinary medicine is surgery.
Outside of work, Dr. Fife spends her time with her two dogs, Lady and Lorelai and husband, Joseph and enjoys doing jigsaw puzzles, reading and Sudoku.
