How Dr. Jody Downhill Built Fallbrook Veterinary Clinic Into a Lifelong Mission

When Dr. Jody Downhill took over a small veterinary practice in Woodland Hills in 2003, she wasn’t chasing a business trend or a quick win. She was following a calling. With a deep love for animals and a work ethic shaped by years of hands-on experience, she transformed Fallbrook Veterinary Clinic into a thriving, trusted name in her community.

“I’ve dedicated my life to helping animals,” she says. “That’s the heart of it. Always has been.”

Her story is a reminder that success often comes from a simple idea, brought to life through consistency, care, and a commitment to growth—both personal and professional.

From Pony Club to Practice Owner

Jody grew up in Southern California surrounded by animals—dogs, cats, horses, even a sparrow hawk. She began riding horses at age seven and competed in three-day events and hunter/jumper shows. She was a member of the Portuguese Bend Pony Club. Her early years taught her responsibility, discipline, patience, and the value of connection with animals.

“I always had a special way with animals,” she says. 

After graduating from Rolling Hills High School, she worked her way through junior college and then UC Irvine by waitressing. She earned a degree in Biological Sciences and went on to Ross University for veterinary school, finishing her clinical training at Oklahoma State. Before taking over her clinic, she worked as an emergency overnight Vet at VCA Berwyn Animal Hospital in Chicago Illinois—a tough, fast-paced job that taught her how to stay calm under pressure. And she also worked at many practices as a relief Veterinarian.

“Emergency medicine showed me just how much timing matters,” she says. “You don’t wait and see—you act.”

Taking Over and Growing Fallbrook Veterinary Clinic

In 2003, Dr. Downhill purchased Fallbrook Veterinary Clinic. The clinic was small but had potential. She immediately saw an opportunity to expand—not just physically, but in scope and quality of care.

“I wanted a place where we could treat just about anything,” she explains. “Dogs, cats, pocket pets, birds, reptiles, horses—if someone needed help, I didn’t want to turn them away.”

By 2011, demand had grown so much that she moved the clinic to a larger location on Fallbrook Avenue in Woodland Hills. That move was a turning point, allowing her to build out her services, add staff, and offer more advanced care while keeping the clinic deeply rooted in the local community.

Today, Fallbrook Veterinary Clinic serves a wide range of patients, from household pets to farm animals. It’s not unusual for someone to bring in a parrot one day and a chicken the next.

Preventative Care as a Core Business Idea

One of the ideas that shaped Dr. Downhill’s approach early on was her focus on preventative medicine. While many practices focus heavily on treatment, she prioritized education, regular checkups, and early detection.

“I’d rather see a pet once a year for a quick check than have to treat them in crisis,” she says. “Preventative care saves lives. It also saves people heartache and money.”

This approach has earned her long-term loyalty from clients. She’s now seeing second-generation pet owners—children who once came in with their parents and are now returning with pets of their own.

“That’s the most rewarding part,” she says. “Watching those bonds grow over the years.”

The Challenge of Balancing Medicine and Business

Running a veterinary practice is more than just medicine. As the owner, Dr. Downhill handles staffing, finances, operations, and strategy—often after hours.

“Being a veterinarian and a business owner at the same time is challenging, ” she admits. “There are a lot of late nights. There are no real days off. But when you love what you do, it’s worth it.”

She credits her early years in the service industry with giving her strong communication skills. “Waitressing taught me how to read people,” she says. “That’s helped me work better with pet parents—and with my staff.”

Her leadership style is hands-on, empathetic, and rooted in experience. She believes in doing the work, not just delegating it.

Building a Legacy of Trust and Compassion

Fallbrook Veterinary Clinic isn’t just a successful small business. It’s a legacy. Dr. Downhill has built something that reflects who she is—resilient, deeply committed, and always thinking long-term.

She’s helped thousands of animals through illness, injury, and end-of-life care. She’s also helped countless young pets get off to a healthy start. Each case adds another layer to a career built on impact, not ego.

“I’ve helped many animals over the rainbow bridge,” she says quietly. “That part is hard. But it’s also an honor. You’re part of that family’s story.”

What Others Can Learn

Dr. Downhill’s story isn’t flashy. There are no shortcuts or viral moments—just years of hard work, clear values, and thoughtful choices. She’s brought big ideas to life by staying focused on her mission and staying flexible as the business evolved.

Her advice is simple:

“Stay connected to what you love. Be willing to learn. And don’t be afraid of the hard days—they’re part of the process.”

In an industry where burnout is common and ownership is rare, Dr. Jody Downhill stands out—not just for her skill, but for her endurance and heart.