Frequently Asked Questions

At Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic, we know that pet owners have plenty of questions when it comes to keeping their companions healthy, happy, and safe. We created this FAQ to help you find quick answers about our services, our location, and what to expect when you visit us.

From wellness exams and dental care to boarding and preventive medicine, we’re here to support every stage of your pet’s life. If you don’t see your question below, feel free to call our friendly team at (772) 546-2595—we’re always happy to help local pet parents throughout Hobe Sound, Jupiter Island, and the surrounding Treasure Coast communities.

About Our Location

Where is Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic located?

We are located at 11858 SE Dixie Highway in Hobe Sound, Florida 33455, just north of Bridge Road and a short drive from Jupiter Island. Our clinic is easy to find and even easier to love!

Do you serve pets from Jupiter Island and nearby communities?

Yes! We proudly care for pets from Hobe Sound, Jupiter Island, Stuart, Port Salerno, Tequesta, and other Martin County areas. Whether you live on the beach or a bit further inland, we’re happy to be your neighborhood vet.

Read more about our clinic here.

What are your clinic hours and how can I make an appointment?

We’re open throughout the week for appointments and boarding drop-offs. To schedule a visit, simply call (772) 546-2595 or request an appointment online using our contact form here. Our team will find a time that fits your schedule and your pet’s needs.

Is there parking available at your clinic?

Yes! We offer free, convenient parking right in front of the clinic, so you can easily bring your pet in for appointments or boarding. 

What landmarks are near Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic?

We’re located near Gomez Avenue, SE Bridge Road, and the Tunnel of Trees, just minutes from Jonathan Dickinson State Park and U.S. Highway 1. Whether you’re coming from Jupiter Island or downtown Hobe Sound, you’ll find us close to home.

Which areas does Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic serve?

Our team proudly serves Hobe Sound, Jupiter Island, Stuart, Port Salerno, and Tequesta, along with surrounding Treasure Coast communities. We’re honored to care for pets from all across Martin County.

What are your hours of operation?

We are open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. Holiday hours may vary.

How can I contact the clinic?

You can reach us by calling (772) 546-2595, sending us a message through our website contact form, or stopping by during business hours. For emergencies, please call ahead so we can prepare for your pet’s arrival.

Meet Our Veterinarians

Who are the veterinarians at Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic?

Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic is owned and operated by Dr. Jennifer DiTrapani-Gimbal and Dr. Nathan Gimbal, a husband-and-wife veterinary team who share a deep passion for animal health and community service. Together, they bring decades of experience, compassion, and commitment to every patient they treat.

Dr. Jennifer DiTrapani-Gimbal grew up in Connecticut, where her love for animals began with family hikes and horseback riding adventures. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Florida and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University, completing her clinical training at Virginia Tech. After several years practicing in New York, she and her husband moved to Florida, where they have owned and operated several veterinary practices, including Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic since 2015.

Dr. DiTrapani-Gimbal has a special passion for geriatric pet care, believing that age is not a disease. She’s also known for her compassion toward feral and homeless cats and enjoys caring for small mammals such as Guinea pigs, rabbits, and rats. Outside the clinic, she enjoys reading, yoga, running, and organic living.

Dr. Nathan Gimbal was born on a U.S. Army base in Vicenza, Italy, and raised near Philadelphia, PA. His love of science and animals led him to veterinary medicine. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the American University of the Caribbean and completed his clinical training at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Gimbal has practiced in Florida for many years and is also the owner of Ocean Breeze Animal Hospital.

Dr. Gimbal enjoys dermatology for its complexity and dentistry for its direct impact on pets’ long-term health. He’s passionate about helping families understand their pets’ needs and supporting them through every stage of life. When not in the clinic, he enjoys golfing, jogging, and spending time with his wife and their three daughters, two dogs, and three cats.

Who else is on the veterinary team at Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic?

You can learn more about our individual staff members by reading their bios here. Read about our care team.

General Veterinary Care

What services does Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic provide?

We offer a complete range of veterinary services, including wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostics, surgery, dental cleanings, and senior pet care. We also provide safe and comfortable boarding for dogs and cats. Our goal is to give every pet the best care possible in a calm, compassionate setting.

How often should my pet visit the vet?

Most adult dogs and cats should see the veterinarian once a year for a wellness exam. Senior pets and those with ongoing health issues may benefit from more frequent visits, as this allows us to closely monitor their condition and adjust care as needed. We will recommend an appointment schedule based on your pet’s specific health and care needs. Click here to read about our Wellness and Vaccinations services.

What should I expect during my pet’s first appointment?

Your first visit includes a full nose-to-tail exam, a review of your pet’s medical history, and a discussion of preventive care like vaccines, heartworm prevention, and nutrition. We’ll take time to answer all your questions. Our goal is to help you feel confident in your pet’s care plan.

Learn more about our services here.

Do you offer same-day or emergency appointments?

We accommodate emergencies as much we as possibly can. If your pet becomes sick or injured, please call us right away at (772) 546-2595. We do our best to see urgent cases the same day, depending on our schedule and the situation. However, in an after hours emergency, we recommend contacting Pet Emergency of Martin County at (772)781-3302.

Pet Health & Preventive Care

How can I protect my pet from fleas, ticks, and heartworms in Florida?

Florida’s warm weather means pests are active year-round. We recommend monthly parasite prevention for both indoor and outdoor pets. Our veterinarians will help you choose a safe and effective product based on your pet’s lifestyle.

What are common allergy symptoms in Florida pets?

In our coastal region, pollen, mold, and grass can trigger pet allergies. Insect bites can also be an issue. Look for signs like itching, licking, red skin, or frequent ear infections. We offer allergy testing and treatment options to help your pet find relief. Read more about our allergies and dermatitis services and treatments.

Does Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic offer dental care?

Yes! We perform professional dental cleanings, oral exams, and dental X-rays. Maintaining your pet’s oral health can prevent pain, bad breath, and even heart or kidney disease. Visit our dentistry page here.

Why is bloodwork important for senior pets?

Routine bloodwork helps detect diseases early, before the issues cause visible symptoms. This allows us to intervene sooner and help your senior pet live a healthier, more comfortable life.

Read more at our pet health library here.

Do you specialize in reproduction?

Yes, via our partner, Balanced Genetics. Read more about them here.

Senior Pet Care & Surgery

What kind of care do senior pets need?

As pets age, their needs change, just like ours do. Senior dogs and cats benefit from more frequent checkups, routine bloodwork, and close monitoring for changes in appetite, energy, or behavior. Regular wellness visits help catch common conditions like arthritis, thyroid imbalance, and kidney disease early, when they’re most manageable. Nutrition and weight management are also both very important for older pets. Read about our nutrition and weight management options.

How can I keep my senior pet comfortable and active?

Gentle, consistent exercise, proper weight management, and a diet that is specifically tailored to suit a senior pet’s needs can all make a big difference. Joint supplements, pain management options, and regular dental care also help older pets feel their best. Our team will work with you to create a personalized plan that keeps your senior companion happy, mobile, and pain-free.

Does Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic perform surgery?

Yes, we provide a range of surgical services right here in our clinic. From routine procedures like spays, neuters, and mass removals to more complex soft-tissue surgeries, your pet is in caring, experienced hands. Learn more about the surgeries we provide.

Is it safe for older pets to have surgery?

Generally, yes, though of course every case is different and some procedures simply carry more inherent risk than others. We will discuss options on a case-by-case basis. It also must be done with proper preparation and monitoring. 

Before surgery, we perform thorough bloodwork and pre-anesthetic testing to ensure your pet can safely handle anesthesia. During surgery, we use advanced monitoring and pain management to keep your senior pet as safe and comfortable as possible.

How do you help pets recover after surgery?

We take recovery very seriously. Every surgical patient is closely monitored after their procedure, and we provide detailed at-home instructions to help you care for your pet. Pain control, rest, and gentle follow-up visits are key to a smooth recovery.

Pet Boarding

Does Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic offer pet boarding?

Yes! Our boarding facility is clean, climate-controlled, and supervised by caring staff. Dogs enjoy daily exercise and personal attention, while cats relax in calm, cozy spaces away from noise. Learn more about our boarding services.

What vaccinations are required for boarding?

Dogs must be current on Core vaccines, including rabies, distemper/parvo, and Bordetella (kennel cough). Cats need rabies and FVRCP vaccinations. We verify records before every stay to ensure that all of all adorable guests are protected.

How soon should I book boarding during busy travel seasons?

We recommend booking early for holidays, summer, and school breaks, as these periods fill up quickly. Booking ahead ensures your pet’s spot and helps us prepare for their stay. Check out our boarding registration form here.

Can I tour the boarding area before booking?

Absolutely! We encourage new clients to schedule a tour of our boarding area before making reservations. And while some areas may be restricted to staff only, we do offer a virtual hospital tour.

Looking For A Great Vet In Hobe Sound

At Hobe Sound Veterinary Clinic, we’re more than your local vet; we’re your partners in lifelong pet care. From preventive wellness to boarding and senior pet support, our compassionate husband-and-wife veterinary team proudly serves Hobe Sound, Jupiter Island, and surrounding communities. Sure, you can Google ‘great vet near me’ … or just contact us!

Call (772) 546-2595 today to schedule an appointment.