Assistant Manager, Senior Vet

Professional Interests

Generally speaking I enjoy all aspects of being a veterinarian. An all-rounder, I don’t mind whether I am in surgery, or consulting, taking radiographs or working on medical cases. The diversity keeps me interested.

Why I became a vet

That’s not an easy question to answer. I did grow up on a farm surrounded by beef cattle, dairy cattle, horses, pigs, dogs, cats and wildlife of course. The local rural veterinarians would visit to treat horse colic’s and cattle dystocia’s so I guess I had some idea about what they had to deal with on a daily basis. Eventually I became aware of an interest in medicine.

Favourite animals

Horses – I grew up on a farm and a lot of my early years were spent at pony club, polocrosse, rodeos and agricultural shows so they seem quite a natural part of my life even if I haven’t been involved for many years. Cats are a close second. Something about their independence appeals to me.

My animals

Emma and Pumpkin grace us with their company currently. Emma is a fidgety, dainty, highly strung toy poodle. Oddly enough she is very timid around people but thinks Rottweilers are just big puppies meant to be told off and bossed about. Pumpkin is a bichon cross mini poodle that everybody mistakes for a male. She is quite robust.

Hobbies

Running, astronomy and anything to do with NASA/space shuttles/ outer-space

What do you like about working at Hobart Community Veterinary Hospital

I enjoy being able to treat animals that ordinarily may not get any treatment. Being able to help members of the community whose only companion may be their pet can be especially satisfying. The daily challenge of solving problems for clients is quite rewarding.