Ocean City Animal Hospital

Veterinarian

A doctor who still makes house calls? If anyone thought that went the way of the rotary telephone and VHS tapes, they haven’t encountered a unique and warm veterinarian practice in Ocean City, just a few minutes from the beach.

Dr. John Maniatty of Ocean City Animal Hospital says, “Some animals just don’t travel well. Or worse, sometimes, when it’s time to put a cherished family pet to sleep after a long illness, the stress of taking that animal to the hospital is too much, versus being at home in a more peaceful setting. So house calls are just something we choose to offer.”

This warm philosophy is just part of his practice, which encompasses surgery, dental, internal medicine, emergency services and preventative care. They see dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, rats, chinchillas, and other furry creatures. Dr. Maniatty, describing a visit, says, “A head-to-tail exam is done, then we will discuss either the current problem that has brought the animal to the hospital or preventative health care to protect the animal and protect the family that loves them. It is important to educate the client and answer their questions. That’s what this practice is all about.”

“When I see an animal, it’s like forming a friendship.”

He adds, “We’re really a family practice. When people bring their pets here, they’re not in and out. We try to get to know animals and their owners. We sit and talk and take an interest in the people and the animals, not only the animals themselves.”

Dr. Maniatty and his associate Dr. Flood also maintain Saturday hours at a time when many veterinary practices have discontinued them. Dr. Maniatty adds that they also take on seasonal clients at the height of Ocean City’s beach season, saying, “A pet in need is not something you can just turn your back on because you are busy. Everyone is special and deserves to be treated that way. So you may have to wait, but you will get the same care and time.”

“When I see an animal, it’s like forming a friendship. I have to interpret how to interact with them . . . let the animal see that I genuinely like them and want to make a connection,” says Dr. Maniatty.

Trained at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Maniatty has had a lifelong love of animals (and currently has two dogs and a rabbit at the home he shares with his family).

“My grandfather owned a farm,” he says. “And that’s where I developed a love for animals. At sixth-grade career day, a woman was talking about being a vet, and I realized that I could combine my love of animals with a career. Literally, since sixth grade, I have been focused on that. I’ve now been a vet for 12 years.”

Dr. Maniatty ensures that his entire practice reflects his warm philosophy. “When someone brings their pet in, first they will be greeted by a receptionist who’s smiling and pleasant. That attitude permeates the entire practice, from the kennel help to the doctors. That ‘bedside manner’ goes for everybody here. It’s how we choose people we hire. We want a warm family environment.”

Dr. John Maniatty
Ocean City Animal Hospital
11843 Ocean Gateway
Ocean City, MD 21842
410.213.1170

www.oceancityvet.com

Pictured: Dr. John Maniatty
Photography: David Mark Hall