The Drake Center began in 1984 when Dr. Sandra Ullstrup saw her first patient at Westlake Veterinary Clinic. In 1992, eight years after opening the practice, Dr. Ullstrup decided to pursue her life’s dream of sailing around the world and sold Westlake Veterinary Clinic to Dr. Michele Drake. 
The small strip mall practice had three employees, all of whom continued to work under Dr. Drake. For the next four years, Dr. Drake worked tirelessly as the sole veterinarian six days a week.
In 1996, Dr. Kathy Boehme was hired as an associate to help with the growing practice. She would become a partner the following year (both Dr. Drake and Dr. Boehme are now happily retired as of 2025).
Business continued to grow and before long, the little practice was at capacity. In 1998, Dr. Drake had the opportunity to purchase San Dieguito Veterinary Hospital, which was a well-established and much larger practice several miles away. Westlake Veterinary Clinic was closed and relocated to the new facility. Westlake-San Dieguito was established as the two practices came together, creating a much larger family of clients and several new team members.
While the larger facility and new location were perfect for the growing practice, the old building needed quite a bit of work and was remodeled while the practice remained open for business. The exterior of the building was redesigned, an additional exam room and hospital ward were added, boarding facilities were expanded, and the lobby was remodeled.
With these new changes also came a new name: The Drake Center for Veterinary Care.
That same year, Dr. Keala Shotwell joined the veterinary staff, followed by Dr. Jennifer Hamlet in 2002, Dr. Heather Kovac in 2011, Dr. Sarah Dilworth in 2013, Dr. Taylor Borsack in 2016. Dr. Katie Tiglio and Dr. Madison VanWorth joined in 2021, and Dr. Kristi Leslie and Dr. Janice Lee in 2022, as well as Dr. Laura Dowd in 2024, and Dr. Nicholas Duke in 2025.
In 2022, an annex was added next door with more exams rooms, treatment spaces, and parking to benefit our clients and patients. Our support team has also expanded over the years and now consists of over 50 staff members.
The Drake Center team is so special and embody The Drake Difference; every team member is proud and honored to care for your pets and have your trust!
