He was more than a veterinarian: he was a healer, a mentor, a devoted family man, and a cornerstone of the Manteca and Tracy communities.
was more than just a veterinarian — he was a healer, a mentor, a devoted family man, and a cornerstone of the Manteca and Tracy communities. For years, he served the Central Valley with unmatched dedication, compassionately caring for pets and guiding their owners through both joyful and difficult moments. His presence brought comfort, trust, and warmth to every visit.
Clients praised him for his kindness, deep expertise, and respect for their time. “Dr. Raj and the staff here are amazing,” one person shared. Another said, “I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Raj and his staff for taking excellent care of my dog.” Whether it was a routine check-up or a critical emergency, Dr. Raj always treated pets with the same love and attention he gave his own.
Dr. Raj Dhanota’s profound connection with the community and his unmatched dedication to animal care were not only reflected in the words of his clients but also in the consistent public recognition he received.
Year after year, the residents of Manteca and Ripon reaffirmed their trust and gratitude by choosing him as the region’s top veterinarian. For nine consecutive years (2016-2024), Dr. Raj was honored with the prestigious “Readers’ Choice” Award by the Manteca Bulletin and Ripon Bulletin newspapers.
Dr. Raj was immensely proud to receive this award each year, seeing it not just as a professional achievement, but as proof of the special bond he had forged with his patients and their families. This legacy of excellence, chosen by the people, will forever endure as a symbol of his unparalleled compassion and skill.
He opened his heart and home to young veterinarians from India, offering them not only a place to live but a chance to build their careers in the United States. Many of these professionals got their first opportunity because of Dr. Raj — a man who believed in lifting others up and giving back to the profession that had given him so much.
He was a respected figure in the veterinary community, known for his mentorship, high standards, and generous spirit. He lived the true American Dream — building a successful practice, raising a beautiful family, and earning the admiration of everyone who knew him. Through hard work, humility, and love, he created a life filled with purpose and legacy.
At his core, Dr. Raj was a family man. He adored his wife and children and built his life around them. Those close to him speak of his warmth, laughter, and pride in the life he created with them in the Manteca-Tracy area.
Dr. Raj Dhanota leaves behind not just a professional legacy but a life of generosity, compassion, and integrity. He will be remembered with deep affection by his family, colleagues, clients, and the entire Central Valley community.
“Dr. Raj was a caring and dedicated veterinarian. My parents and I have been bringing our animals
to this vet hospital for as long as I’ve lived. They have been quick to put the needs of our animals
first before anything else along with making everything quite affordable.”
“Dr. Raj was a caring and dedicated veterinarian. Hands down best place to bring your pets. If you
love your animal, then you know its hard to trust people and leave your pet with them.”
“There is no other vet that I would take my best friend to.
My pupper Tucker has been with Dr. Raj since he was a few months old 12 years ago, and Central
Valley Vet has always treated us like family.
Tucker was hit by a truck when he was 6 years old, and lost all nerves and muscle tissue in his left
front leg.”