About Byram Animal Hospital
Caring for pets. Supporting families. Proudly serving Stanhope and surrounding New Jersey Communities since 1996.
At Byram Animal Hospital, we believe that excellent veterinary care begins with compassion, communication, and a commitment to treating every pet like family. Located in the heart of Stanhope, NJ, we’ve proudly served Byram Township, Morris County, Sussex County, and Warren County for over 25 years, delivering high-quality care for cats and dogs with a focus on personalized service and clinical excellence.
Founded in 1996 by husband-and-wife veterinarians Dr. Carlos Abdul-Chani and Dr. Maria Cruz, our hospital was built on a shared mission: to provide outstanding veterinary medicine in a warm, welcoming environment where pets and their people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Se habla español. We are proud to offer bilingual care for our Spanish-speaking community members.
Our Story
Byram Animal Hospital was established out of a deep respect for the human-animal bond and a desire to elevate the standard of care in our local community. Over the years, we’ve earned the trust of pet parents across Stanhope and beyond, growing almost entirely through word-of-mouth referrals and positive client experiences.
We are a brick-and-mortar hospital where every patient is examined by one of our owners — either Dr. Carlos, Dr. Cruz, or Dr. Lind — ensuring continuity, trust, and expertise in every visit. We take pride in offering thorough, honest communication and working collaboratively with pet parents to deliver care that’s tailored, realistic, and grounded in clinical integrity.
Meet the Owners
Dr. Carlos Abdul-Chani, DVM
Dr. Carlos earned both his Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Michigan State University. With over 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine, he is an active member of the New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association (NJVMA), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and the Metropolitan VMA.
Known for his steady hand in surgery and calm, confident approach to care, Dr. Carlos is passionate about helping pets live healthier lives. Outside the clinic, he enjoys mountain biking and relaxing with his family — including his Bullmastiffs, Mona and Bruce; African Grey Parrot, Cookie; and cat, Mr. FuFu — at home in Sussex County, or on quiet trips to Maine with Dr. Cruz.
Dr. Maria Cruz, VMD
Dr. Cruz graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology and her VMD. She also completed a Small Animal Medicine and Surgery Internship at Michigan State University. With over 35 years of clinical experience, Dr. Cruz is a respected member of NJVMA, AVMA, and the Metropolitan VMA.
Clients know Dr. Cruz for her empathetic bedside manner, her thorough and patient explanations, and her unwavering dedication to excellence. When she’s not at the clinic, she can be found tending her garden, enjoying the outdoors, or spending time with her family and pets in Sussex County and Maine.
Our Commitment to the Community
As a long-standing veterinary hospital in Northwestern New Jersey, we believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for decades. Whether we’re helping pet owners through difficult decisions, hosting pet health education opportunities, or referring clients to trusted local specialists, our goal is always to build lasting relationships based on mutual trust and respect.
We also value client feedback and regularly use surveys and reviews to enhance our services and staff training. This dedication to continuous improvement is a core part of who we are.
Why Byram Animal Hospital?
Experienced, Bilingual Veterinarians
Every pet is seen by one of our three owners, ensuring consistent, personalized care.
Compassionate, High-Quality Care
We use advanced diagnostics and treatment options while maintaining a personal, approachable feel.
Honest, Transparent Communication
We prioritize educating pet parents and making sure they feel confident and informed.
Locally Owned and Operated
We’re part of this community — not a corporate chain — so we know our clients by name and care deeply about their experience.
Fear Free Focus
While not formally certified, we take pride in using gentle techniques and calm handling to reduce stress for pets and owners alike.
Let’s Partner in Your Pet’s Health
Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for a more personal approach to veterinary care, we invite you to experience the difference at Byram Animal Hospital. We’re here to support you and your pet at every stage — from wellness to urgent care, surgery to diagnostics — with empathy, professionalism, and heart.
Ready to learn more? We’d love to hear from you.