For Dr. Thomas Caltabilota, veterinary medicine is more than a career—it’s a calling rooted in personal healing.
Now with over 10 years of experience, Caltabilota traces his inspiration back to a summer job at Monmouth Park. At the time, he was struggling with grief after the loss of his brother, Frank, in a dorm fire. “I was rebellious and anxious,” he says. “But working with animals helped calm my thoughts. It gave me direction when I needed it most.”
That emotional connection to animals still fuels his work at City By The Sea Veterinary Hospital, a state-of-the-art, Fear Free-certified facility designed to be as comforting for humans as it is for pets.
“Our number one focus is trust,” Caltabilota says. “It’s the foundation of every decision, every conversation. People come to us with a family member who can’t speak. That requires a lot of trust—and we work hard to earn it.”
The clinic is intentionally designed with transparency in mind. Cats and dogs are treated separately, and every exam room includes large windows so families can observe procedures. “It makes a huge difference,” he notes. “Families feel involved, and pets feel safer when their people are nearby.”
When children come along, the team goes out of their way to make the experience interactive and positive. “We use lots of treats, toys, and distractions—sometimes even whipped cream,” he laughed. “Kids often leave with goodie bags and coloring books. They feel like they helped their pet, which is empowering.”
One visit stands out in particular. A young boy fearful of doctors came in with his dog. “We had him give the dog treats and show us tricks,” Caltabilota recalled. “Before he knew it, the exam and vaccines were over. It changed how he saw medical visits—both for his pet and himself.”
As a parent himself, Caltabilota encourages families to involve kids in pet care early. His own son helps feed and medicate the family pets—a French bulldog named Rubble and a three-legged cat named Freddie. “It’s taught him empathy and responsibility,” he explains.
For new pet owners, the clinic offers flexible payment options, preventative dental plans, and educational seminars. The first workshop covered first aid for dogs that overheat. “Today’s pet owners are informed and proactive. We’re here to support that,” he shares.
Caltabilota also urges families to research breeds before adopting. “Not all pets are the right fit for every household,” he shares. “Some need intense activity and structure. Others are more laid-back. Matching a pet’s needs to your lifestyle is key.”
Still, he believes all pets offer something invaluable. “They improve our health, lower stress, and bring joy,” he says. “That human-animal bond is powerful—it’s why I do this.”
And in a community like Asbury Park, that bond is on full display. “You see it at the dog beach, on the boardwalk, at Yappy Hour. This is a town that loves its pets—and we’re proud to serve it.”
City By The Sea Vet reflects that shared love and commitment. “We’re not just treating animals,” Caltabilota notes. “We’re supporting the people who love them.”
City By The Sea Veterinary
1411 Memorial Dr, Asbury Park, NJ
(848) 217-5000
citybytheseavet.com