14942 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
WHO WE ARE
JOANNE BAK DVM, CCRT
Rehabilitation Therapist, Veterinarian
Medical Director/Practice Owner
Dr. Joanne Bak is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist with over 15 years of experience in the fields of physical rehabilitation, acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Dr. Bak earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, graduating with honors, from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. She attended a specialty externship in surgery and neurology with the prestigious Animal Medical Center in New York. She completed an advanced post-graduate clinical internship in small animal medicine and surgery with ASG, the Animal Specialty Group of Los Angeles. Thereafter, she practiced general medicine and surgery as an associate staff doctor for twelve years with VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital, an emergency and multi-specialty veterinary center which is now among the largest animal hospitals in America. There, she worked alongside various specialists in the fields of surgery, neurology, oncology and internal medicine. While experiencing acupuncture for her own cat who suffered a cruciate ligament knee injury, Dr. Bak found her calling in canine and feline rehabilitation therapy. She completed continued educational coursework through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute and the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society as well as coursework in advanced acupuncture, Chinese medicine and Food Therapy obtained in China through the Chi Institute. She had been mentored by pioneers in the fields of veterinary acupuncture, rehabilitation therapy, chiropractic, and holistic medicine. Her special interests include pain management, geriatric and neurological rehabilitation.
Dr. Bak has previously introduced and implemented rehabilitation services for the VCA West LA Animal Hospital and the Animal Specialty Group. She developed and directed the Rehabilitation & Integrative Medicine Department for ASG for five years and brought her expertise and skills to California Animal Rehabilitation prior to pursuing her own vision. Her passion for enhancing the quality of life of aging pets, providing comfort for pets in chronic pain, support for pets with chronic illnesses or cancer and mobility solutions for debilitated pets, led her to create PAW REHAB, the Pacific Animal Wellness Rehabilitation Center. She brings a vast array of knowledge and skills to her practice which utilizes an integrative approach to healing and recovery. PAW REHAB has been featured on “This is LA” and as one of the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians spotlight practices.
Dr. Bak has contributed to the veterinary community by educating and training veterinary doctors and staff regarding the topics of rehabilitation therapy and acupuncture and by mentoring veterinary interns and students. She has lectured for veterinary teaching hospitals as well as for the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Bak has been a guest on “The Pet Show” and Animal Planet’s “The Pit Boss” which showcased her patient’s remarkable recovery from a complicated fracture. She was a veterinary consultant and fitness expert for Purina’s “Project Pet Slim Down”, a website series and weight loss program for overweight pets. Joanne Bak is a resident of Studio City and is very happy to be bringing rehabilitation services to this area of the Valley. In her free time, she enjoys music, photography, cooking, nights at the Hollywood Bowl and watching her favorite TV shows, but, mostly spending time with her family and dog, Apple, who you might recognize as our logo dog!
ABOUT OUR TEAM
At PAW Rehab, our dedicated staff is the heart of everything we do. Each member of our team—whether a veterinary rehabilitation technician, assistant, or customer service representative—shares a deep commitment to helping animals heal, thrive, and enjoy a better quality of life.
Our veterinary rehabilitation technicians bring specialized training and hands-on experience in physical therapy modalities, hydrotherapy, therapeutic exercises, laser therapy, and more. Many have completed advanced certifications in canine rehabilitation and regularly pursue continuing education to stay current with the latest techniques in veterinary sports medicine and recovery care. Their skill is matched only by their empathy—treating every patient with patience, gentleness, and a personalized approach.
Our veterinary rehabilitation assistants are vital to the smooth operation of our care plans. Trained in safe handling techniques, exercise support, and therapeutic equipment, they work closely with our technicians and veterinarians to ensure treatments are delivered with precision and compassion. They are always ready with a calming word or gentle touch, making each visit a positive experience for pets and their families.
Our client service team is more than just the friendly voice on the phone—they are an integral part of our support system. With a deep understanding of the rehabilitation process, they help guide clients through scheduling, treatment plans, and follow-up care. Their kindness and communication skills ensure that every client feels heard, informed, and supported.
Across all roles, our team is united by our core values: kindness, compassion, teamwork, and a genuine love for animals. We believe in working collaboratively—not only with each other but also with pet parents and referring veterinarians—to create the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our clinic culture fosters respect, integrity, and positivity, allowing us to support each other and deliver the highest standard of care.
Every member of the PAW Rehab family is here because they truly care—not just about the work, but about the pets and people behind every case. From the first welcome at the front desk to the last step in a patient’s recovery plan, we are honored to be part of each animal’s journey to better health!