Dr Michael Hamilton
BVM&S, CertSAS, DipECVS, MRCVS
EBVS® European & RCVS Recognised Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Founder & Clinical Director, Consultant Orthopaedic & Spinal Surgeon
Michael graduated from The University of Edinburgh in 1998 and following a period in general veterinary practice, in 2002 he embarked upon his specialist surgical training at The University of Cambridge. After completing his Residency, Michael became a European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery in 2007 and he is also an RCVS Recognised Specialist in Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics). He joined Fitzpatrick Referrals as a Senior orthopaedic and spinal surgeon in 2008 where he worked for five years before leaving to set up his own surgical referral service. Michael has extensive experience in complex surgical procedures including; joint replacements, spinal surgery and advanced tumour resections. He has a particular interest in cruciate ligament injury, elbow dysplasia and spinal surgery and has lectured nationally and internationally on these and many other topics. He is also an accomplished soft tissue surgeon with an interest in oncologic and upper airway surgery.
Dr David Sajik
BVetMed MVetMed PGCert Dipl.ECVS MRCVS
EBVS® European & RCVS Recognised Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
David graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2009 and following a couple of years in primary care small animal veterinary practice embarked on his specialist surgical career. Following two 12-month internships, he began his surgical residency at the Royal Veterinary College which he completed in 2016. David became a European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery in 2017 and is an RCVS Recognised Specialist in Small Animal Surgery. Since completing his specialist training David has held the position of Lecturer in Small Animal Orthopaedic Surgery at the Royal Veterinary College, most recently leading the Orthopaedic department. David’s clinical interests include the streamlining of orthopaedic salvage procedures and he enjoys the complex challenges presented by the trauma patient.
Dr Ricardo de Sousa
DVM, DipECVS MRCVS
EBVS® European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Ricardo graduated from the University “Vasco da Gama” (Portugal) in 2007. After completing a one year externship in a private referral practice in Barcelona, he moved to UK in 2008 where he spent the following three years working as a veterinary surgeon in a busy first opinion practice. Following his interest in small animal surgery Ricardo completed a surgical internship at Fitzpatrick Referrals Ltd., followed by a one-year rotational junior scholarship at Cambridge Veterinary School. In 2013, Ricardo joined Liverpool University’s small animal teaching hospital, where he spent the following two years working as a clinical researcher and orthopaedic intern. Ricardo joined Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists Ltd., in 2013 to complete a three-year residency program, credited by the European Collage of Veterinary Surgeons. Following this, Ricardo joined Langford Veterinary Specialists (Bristol University) and Highcroft Veterinary Referrals Ltd as a senior staff clinician surgeon where he obtained his diploma as a European Specialist in Small Animal surgery. Ricardo has co-authored several research projects, presented at multiple national and international congresses and in 2015 he was awarded with the Leslie Vaughan price for the best clinical abstract presentation at British Veterinary Orthopaedic Association. Ricardo is currently undertaking the CertAVP in imaging and is an examiner for the European School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies in surgery. Ricardo is interested in all aspects of surgery but particularly in total joint replacement.
Dr John Parker
BVSc, BSc, FLS, DipECVN, MRCVS
EBVS® European Specialist in Veterinary Neurology and Fellow of the Linnean Society of London
John graduated in Veterinary Science from the University of Bristol with distinction in 2007. He completed an intercalated degree in Zoology in 2005 and was awarded first-class honours. After leaving Bristol, he undertook a mixed-species rotating internship in Veterinary Medicine at the Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital in Cambridge and was subsequently offered a residency in veterinary neurology in 2008, under the supervision of Professor Nick Jeffery. John was the first to be awarded a Wellcome Trust Integrated Training Fellowship for Veterinarians in the same year. This provided funding for both the residency programme and a PhD in Veterinary Medicine (Clinical Neuroscience) at the University of Cambridge. The Fellowship was completed in April 2016 and John remained at the Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital as a Clinical Neurologist for one year. He left this role in 2017 to become an independent consultant in Veterinary Neurology. He remains closely associated with the Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Cambridge through his ongoing research into compressive disease of the spinal cord.
Dr Kristina Lehnus
MA VetMB MRCVS DipECVAA
EBVS® EUROPEAN AND RCVS RECOGNISED SPECIALIST IN VETERINARY ANAESTHESIA AND ANALGESIA
Kristina grew up in Germany before moving to the UK in 2006 to study Veterinary Medicine at Cambridge, graduating in 2014. Kristina recently completed an Anaesthesia Residency at the Queen Mother’s Veterinary Hospital in Cambridge before passing her board exams. Before joining HSR, Kristina worked for a year at Cambridge with a particular interest in patient flow management and optimising patient safety and welfare. She is also interested in the ethics & welfare of animals and the psychology of medical decision-making. Outside of work, Kristina owns a gorgeous working yellow Labrador and enjoys taking him to the beach in her spare time.
Dr Miguel Benito
MRCVS
Neurology Resident
Miguel graduated from the Complutense University of Madrid in Spain in 2005, obtaining a degree in Veterinary Science. He then proceeded to expand his skills and knowledge by working as a rotational & surgery intern at the University, after which he completed an internship with us at Hamilton Specialist Referrals. After completing his internship with us in January 2019, began his ECVN Residency at ARS Veterinaria in Spain. Miguel moved back to the UK in 2020 to rejoin us at HSR in order to complete his residency. Miguel’s passion lies in neurosurgery, neuro imaging and inflammatory brain conditions. In his spare time, Miguel enjoys cooking, travelling, and hitting the gym.
Dr Laura Gardner
BVetMed MRCVS
Orthopaedic & Neurology Intern
Laura graduated from the Royal Veterinary College London (RVC) in 2019. During her time as a student, she completed a three-week placement at Hamilton Specialist Referrals and enjoyed the experience so much that she decided to join the team permanently in August 2019. Laura has a particular interest in orthopaedics and neurology and has a long-term goal of becoming a specialist. Outside of work, she enjoys attending concerts and theatre shows and is an avid cinema goer. Laura is also a member of an indie choir, plays keyboard and guitar and likes to unwind by reading, needle felting and drawing. She is the proud owner of a handsome fawn and white whippet called Jenson.
Dr Maja Schaldemose
MRCVS
Orthopaedic & Neurology Intern
Maja graduated from the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, University of Copenhagen in Denmark in Oct 2008. She has since then worked in first opinion practice in Denmark for 5 years followed by 5 years of mixed first and second opinion practice in Sweden. She has primarily worked as a soft tissue surgeon for the last 5 years and now wants to pursue becoming an Orthopaedic surgeon and Neurosurgeon. Her main interests are spinal surgery and minimal invasive surgery. Outside work Maja's biggest hobbies are cross fit and kitesurfing, but the coming year will be dedicated to exploring the UK, together with her 1-year-old son and husband.
Dr Irenka Baldo-Clemot
MRCVS
Orthopaedic & Neurology Intern
Irenka graduated from the University of Murcia in 2016. After graduating, she worked as a vet in first opinion practice in Spain for 10 months before coming to the UK in 2017. Irenka worked in a first opinion practice in Oxfordshire for two years to gain further experience before joining HSR in November 2019. Whilst Irenka thoroughly enjoys orthopaedics, she is very passionate about neurology and aims to specialise in the future. Outside of work she loves spending time with her friends (both human and canine!) and travelling.
Dr Chris Webb
MA VetMB PgC(SAS) PgC(SAS) MRCVS
Veterinary Intern
Chris was born and raised in High Wycombe, (and even attended Hamilton primary school spooky!) He is a former GB kickboxer, and whilst studying Veterinary Medicine at Cambridge University he was the university boxing captain and Cambridge Full Blue. Before joining HSR, Chris worked in a first opinion practice in Oxfordshire for a total of six years. He has also worked and travelled in Australia for 9 months and recently completed a one year junior clinical training scholarship at Bristol University. Chris was particularly drawn to join the HSR team as he has a passion for orthopaedics and is very excited to increase his experience in a small, like-minded team. Outside of work, Chris has a rescue cat called Cheesecake and enjoys boxing, Muay Thai, running, travelling. He also enjoys riding his 1991 Honda CBR600F2 which he lovingly restored and has previously competed in Ninja Warrior UK 2017 in surgical scrubs!
Dr Dorothy Hajdu
DrMedVet MRCVS
Veterinary Intern
Dorothy completed the first two years of her veterinary studies at University College Dublin in Ireland before transferring and graduating from the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest in Hungary. Alongside her studies here, she was involved in translating academic texts from Hungarian to English at the University and worked as an assistant English teacher at a Language School. After graduation she volunteered at a shelter and educational centre in Budapest before moving to the UK, where she completed a first opinion general internship at the George Veterinary Hospital in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. Dorothy was drawn to join HSR due to the unique opportunity to acquire in depth knowledge in different but interconnecting fields. She finds orthopaedics and neurology equally fascinating and looks forward to exploring both fields in order to find out which she wishes to pursue in the future. Dorothy is excited about incorporating anaesthesiology and analgesia into the program as she sees this a crucial basis; without it no surgeries or certain treatments would be even possible! She has always had a particular interest in research too, and relishes the opportunity to become involved with our own research. Dorothy thrives when working with like-minded individuals in a supportive environment. Our focus on mental health and wellbeing play an equally important part to Dorothy and she looks forward to working in a field-specific referral hospital with a smaller group of people where she can forge strong working relationships, creating a family like environment. Dorothy’s dream is to become a specialist one day and she sees her time at HSR as an exciting step in her journey to becoming one. Outside of worth, Dorothy has a two year old Lagotto Romagnolo dog called Samuel and enjoys kickboxing, drawing, acting, traveling and running; she aims to run her first marathon before she completes her HSR internship.
Dr Clare Hamilton
VetMB MA MRCVS
Managing Director
Clare graduated as a vet from Cambridge University in July 2005 and has worked exclusively in small animal practice for the past thirteen years. She met her husband, Michael at University and they have been married since 2009. Clare has a special interest in client communication and staff wellbeing. Clare and Michael share their home in Marlow with their two small children, a very naughty cat called Winston and their slightly less naughty little dog, Bumble.
Kirsten Farr
B.Sc (hons) (Estate Management), PGDip (Computing)
People and Hospital Manager
Kirsten joined us at Hamilton Specialist Referrals in January 2019 as our People and Hospital Manager. She has a passion for employee well-being, development and organisational effectiveness and sees this as key to enabling HSR to achieve the highest levels of client service and patient care. Kirsten graduated in Estate Management from the University of Greenwich followed by postgraduate diploma in computing at Metropolitan University. Her early career saw her gain wide experience in vocational training, sales and information technology, progressing her skills into senior level positions across multiple sectors (corporate, education, public sector) and a variety of industries. With over 20 years of people management experience, the last 10 years has seen Kirsten focus on senior level operational management and HR. Passionate about working with and through people, she has extensive experience in achieving operational excellence and developing highly engaged teams. With a strong focus on people development and best practice, she is currently part way through a CIPD Level 7 postgraduate masters level qualification in Human Resources. Outside of work, Kirsten has an adorable chihuahua/pekingese Romanian rescue dog Peggy and a just-as-adorable four year old Connemara called Chip, which she is bringing on with a view to show jumping.
Lisa Dover
BSc (hons)
Operational Support Manager
Lisa studied at Loughborough University before beginning her career in the veterinary administration industry. She worked at a busy Equine Veterinary Clinic in the Cotswolds before joining us at Hamilton Specialist Referrals in March 2018. Lisa manages a number of our Operational Support Teams which include Client Care, Clinical Administration, Marketing & PR and elements of HR. Lisa has a passion for staff wellbeing and is trained in Mental Health First Aid. Outside of work, she has a naughty cat called Eddy (or King Edward as he prefers!) a warmblood horse whom she competes at dressage and enjoys long country walks with her boyfriend and their three working cocker spaniels and cockerpoo.
Kimberley Disney
RVN
Senior Nursing Manager
Kim has been qualified since 2014 and has been part of the HSR team since July 2017. She has a passion for emergency work and recently gained her Vets Now Emergency and Critical Care Certificate. Kim is a qualified dog groomer and outside of work she enjoys reading and walking her lovely King Charles Cavalier, Marley.
Megan O'Brien
RVN
Senior Nursing Manager
Megan graduated from the Royal Veterinary College with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing. Having worked alongside Michael Hamilton for a number of years, she developed a keen interest in orthopaedic surgery and enjoys the fast paced nature of referral work. Megan found her niche at HSR as she is able to combine her passion for orthopaedics and neurology with her love of liaising between departments and coordinating the team to ensure the days and surgical procedures are run at optimum efficiency. Megan thoroughly enjoys working in an environment where you learn something new every day. Outside of work she lives in Stoke Poges with her boyfriend and their affectionate, yet mischievous dog, Rusty.
Hannah Prince
RVN
Senior Nursing Manager
Hannah graduated from Sparsholt College in 2012, earning a Veterinary Nursing Degree. Having always had an interest in orthopaedic and neurological treatment, Hannah worked at Fitzpatrick Referrals before joining us at HSR. For Hannah, the most exciting aspect of her role as an RVN is the variety; no day is the same! Hannah also puts great value in supporting and developing her team within an independent practice, as well as ensuring all patients receive the highest standards of care. In her spare time, Hannah enjoys socialising with her friends, as well as a variety of activities such as yoga, climbing & bike rides.
Hayley Barber-West
RVN
Senior Imaging Nurse
Hayley graduated from Harper Adams University with a BSc Honours Degree in Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management in 2015. Since finishing university, she developed a keen interest in diagnostic imaging and oversees all of our advanced diagnostics as our Senior Imaging Nurse. Hayley is also currently studying for her Veterinary Nursing Certificate in Emergency and Critical Care. Outside of work Hayley has an active lifestyle competing her native show ponies, she also enjoys going to the gym, and walking her 2 Dalmatians and naughty Border Terrier puppy Weasley.
Louise Richey
RVN
Senior Nurse
Louise started her training to become a veterinary nurse at Cherry Tree Veterinary Practice in 2014, following three years studying for a degree in Zoology. She qualified as an RVN in 2016, and stayed at Cherry Tree for another two years before moving over to Hamilton Specialist Referrals. She has developed a keen interest in anaesthesia and orthopaedics, having worked with Michael Hamilton for four years. Louise doesn’t have any pets of her own, but regularly looks after animals who belong to friends and family. She is hoping to start studying towards the Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Nursing in 2019.
Leah Alcorn
RVN
Ward Nursing Manager
Leah studied her level 3 diploma at the College of Animal Welfare whilst working in a first opinion practice after leaving school. She has always had a passion and deep interest for working with animals. Once qualified in 2015, Leah decided to specialise in referral nursing and nursing post-surgical patients at the Royal Veterinary College. Her interests include emergency and critical care, and she gained her VetsNow ECC nursing certificate in 2019. In her spare time, Leah enjoys walking her gorgeous Labrador, Reggie and socialising with friends.
Rebecca Baron
RVN
Ward Nurse
Rebecca studied veterinary nursing at the College of Animal Welfare in Godmanchester. Before joining HSR she worked at Dick White Referrals where she gained vast experience in patient wards, which is her main passion. She particularly enjoys being able to provide the gold standard of care to both orthopaedic and neurology patients at HSR. Rebecca also has an interest in behaviour and has successfully gained her Certificate in Animal Behaviour. Outside of work Rebecca has two dogs; Angus who is a 10-year-old Parsons Terrier and Teddy-Tucker, a 3 year old Pomeranian. Outside of work Rebecca loves dog walks, baking and travelling.
Avril Wildridge
RVN
Ward Nurse
Avril studied at The College of Animal Welfare in Potters Bar, graduating with a Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing. Avril has a long history of working with animals, having worked at Arden House Animal Hospital prior to working at Hamilton Specialist Referrals. Avril is most excited by seeing her patients get better, and returning them to their ‘pawrents’. Avril is looking forward to developing her knowledge and learning new skills with us at HSR. Avril has an abundance of furry friends at home; her dog Molly, cat Cleo, and 2 guinea pigs Percy & Bertie. In her spare time, Avril enjoys yoga, going to the gym, and going to brunches with friends.
Holly Cadman
RVN
Day Nurse
Holly studied for a Level 3 diploma in Veterinary Nursing at the College of Animal Welfare and qualified in 2017. Working in a first opinion practice throughout her training, she gained a keen interest in orthopaedic surgery and anaesthesia leading her to join the HSR team in 2019. Holly lives in Tring with her boyfriend, a naughty Australian Shepherd called River and loving British Shorthair called Rocky.
Leah Deacon
RVN
Day Nurse
Leah has a BSc (Hons) Degree in Chemistry that she completed in 2014 before deciding to follow her heart and work with animals. She qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in August 2018 with a Level 3 Diploma that she studied for whilst also working full time in practice. Leah was inspired to join the HSR team in April 2019 after gaining experience nursing emergency, orthopaedic and neurology patients both during and after her training. Leah is particularly interested in emergency and critical and care nursing and anaesthesia, and hopes to further her knowledge in these areas in the future with further study. Outside of work Leah lives in Oxford with her boyfriend, and has two cats called Bailey and Penny.
Adrienne Pettit
RVN
Day Nurse
Adrienne studied for an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing whilst working full time in first opinion practice and qualified in 2017. Having previously worked in a busy hospital environment, she developed a keen interest in anaesthesia, orthopaedic surgery and emergency and critical care. This motivated Adrienne to join the team at HSR in August 2019, where she hopes to further her knowledge and skills in these areas.
Flora Nunes
RVN
Day Nurse
Flora graduated as a Vet Nurse in Portugal in 2010 where she worked for 4 years before deciding to try something new, moving to the UK in 2015. Over the last 10 years, her interest in orthopaedics and neurology have grown, leading her to join HSR in November 2019. Flora has a Certificate in Animal Physiotherapy and recently gained her Vet Nursing Certificate in Emergency and Critical Care. Her interests include anaesthesia and care for the hospitalised animal. Outside of work she loves reading, travelling and spending time with her husband and lovely cat Mia.
Fliss Steventon
RVN
Day Nurse
Fliss Graduated from Harper Adams University with a FdSc in Veterinary Nursing back in 2013. Since qualifying Fliss has worked in a variety of different practices across the UK, from first opinion small animal to mixed and referral. Fliss has also spent several months aboard working and volunteering with some weird and wonderful animals . Since returning she has developed a keen interest in anaesthesia and orthopaedics. Outside of work Fliss can be found not far from a polo ground, out on her motorcycle trying to capture the wildlife with her camera or in a far off land exploring.
Melanie Ford
RVN
Day Nurse
After gaining her Bsc degree with Honours in Veterinary Nursing at Middlesex University, Mel began working in a first opinion 24-hour hospital in North London before joining Hamilton’s at the beginning of 2020. Mel has a particular interest in Neurology and Emergency Critical Care Nursing and enjoys her role at Hamilton’s as she learns something new every day. She has her own domestic short hair cat called Penelope, who plays fetch like a dog! In her spare time, Mel enjoys yoga and running, as well as spending a lot of time in Devon with her family, which is where she is originally from.
Hayley Fairminer
RVN
Day Nurse
Hayley trained as a veterinary nurse at MYF training after working as a human care nurse. Hayley joined Hamilton Specialist Referrals towards the end of 2019 and has particular interests in ward nursing and impatient care. She enjoys her role because she learns new things every day. Hayley has her own cat at home called Simba and is currently training for a half marathon.
Paige Cooper
RVN
Day Nurse
Paige studied for her Veterinary Nursing Diploma Level 3 at Medivet Training College before beginning her veterinary nursing career in first opinion practices. Paige joined HSR in July 2020 and is excited about being able to deliver gold standard care to our patients. HSR particularly appealed to Paige as she is excited about having the opportunity to further her knowledge in anaesthesia and theatre nursing whilst being involved in complex orthopaedic cases alongside our specialists. Paige has a cat called Malay and a 9-month-old kitten called Fennec - who is very much a handful! She also has three ferrets called Rumble Buffin, Omelette and Ida. Outside of work Paige enjoys camping and travelling, has previously worked with endangered species during a volunteering trip to South Africa and is currently working towards an open water diving certification.
Nichola Orchard
RVN
Day Nurse
Nichola studied for her Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing at Medivet Training College (MTC) whilst working in practice. She began working in the veterinary industry in 2015 in North-West London, firstly as a patient care assistant then as a student veterinary nurse. After qualifying in 2019, Nichola worked in a first opinion 24-hour hospital in Buckinghamshire before moving to Hamilton Specialist Referrals in 2020. Nichola particularly enjoys veterinary nursing because she loves that each day is different and thrives on providing high standards of care for all patients. Nichola has a particular interest in anaesthesia and theatre nursing and is excited to further her knowledge by working alongside our specialists and being involved in more complex surgical cases. Outside of work, she has three cats, a black DSH called Molly and two ginger DSH brothers called Witton and Theo that she hand reared from two day old kittens.
Carla Smith
RVN
Night Nurse
Carla has been nursing for over 12 years, qualifying from The College of Animal Welfare in 2009. She has always had a keen interest in anaesthesia and a passion for emergency and critical care and has worked out of hours service for four years. In the future she hopes to complete a certificate in both ECC and anaesthesia. Outside of work, Carla lives with her fiancé and their cat, Degu, guinea pigs and rats.
Daisy Lowe
RVN
Night Nurse
Daisy studied and qualified with a Veterinary Nursing BSc from the Royal Veterinary College. Prior to working in the veterinary industry, Daisy worked in different retail and hospitality positions. When it comes to her career as an RVN, Daisy is most excited by patient continuity and providing the highest quality ongoing care for all her patients. Daisy is looking forward to new challenges at Hamilton Specialist Referrals to expand her knowledge and skillset. Daisy lives with her two cats and enjoys gardening in her spare time.
Lisa Macey
RVN
Weekend Nurse
Lisa originally qualified as an RVN in 2011 at a practice in Hampshire. After a total of 10 years there, she followed her heart to Cherry Tree Veterinary Practice in 2015 where she has highly enjoyed working with a wonderful team. In 2018, after having her youngest daughter, Lisa joined HSR to take up a Weekend Nurse role to fit around busy family life. Lisa enjoys all aspects of Veterinary Nursing; but she does have a special passion for cats! Lisa is excited to be part of our Referral Hospital, and to continue expanding her knowledge and skills. At home she lives with her husband, their 2 young daughters, 6 cats and her hand reared dog, Chunk.
Sarah Ginger
RVN
Weekend Nurse
Sarah
Hannah Jarvis
RVN
Weekend Nurse
Hannah studied Veterinary Nursing (Fdsc Degree) at Hartpury College and trained in a referral practice. Once newly qualified, Hannah spent 4 years in a first opinion practice. Hannah began working at Hamilton Specialist Referrals towards the end of 2019. She enjoys working at Hamilton’s as she likes broadening her knowledge of anaesthesia and seeing the more complex cases that come in. She has a particular interest in anaesthesia and imaging. Hannah has a cat of her own, a domestic long haired called Joey. Outside of work, Hannah enjoys swimming, sailing and cycling on tandem.
Jess Heaton
Nurse Auxiliary
Jess graduated from Kirklees College with a Level Three Extended Diploma in Animal Management in 2014. Following her graduation she went travelling and volunteered in various animal rescues and wildlife conservation set ups around the world, including China, Thailand, Vietnam, New Zealand and Morocco which allowed her to opportunity to work with a variety of different animals including pangolins, bears, monkeys, birds, dogs and many others. Jess is aiming to train to become a vet nurse one day in the future.
Hollie Briggs
Nurse Auxiliary
Hollie originally studied Fashion design in Buckinghamshire New University and graduated in 2015. After taking a year out of further education she went to work as a receptionist in a first opinion veterinary practice, which sparked a new passion for animal care and progressed into working as a nurse assistant. In the future, Hollie aims to go on become a Registered Veterinary Nurse. Outside of work she has a lovely rescue cat called Willow who she adopted in 2018.
Neesha Lynch
Nurse Auxiliary
Neesha graduated from Bucks New University with a degree in Textiles and Surface design. Prior to working at HSR, Neesha worked in an Aquatics centre, quarantining fish. Neesha also cares for an abundance of animals at home, including dogs, cats, reptiles, rodents and arachnids. The combination of her previous employment and her home life led her to pursue a career in animal care. She hopes to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse in the future.
Fran Pontnoy
Nurse Auxiliary
Fran has worked in the veterinary industry for over 6 years and completed her Level 2 Diploma for Veterinary Care Assistants in 2016. Fran aspires to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse later in her career. In her spare time, she enjoys walking her beautiful Rottweiler, Laila.
Amy Bridge
Nurse Auxiliary
Amy graduated from Writtle University College with a BSc in Animal Therapy (physiotherapy). Prior to working at HSR, Amy worked in research, dairy farming & the hospitality industry. Amy is now excited to work in a completely new environment, developing skills related to her degree, and working behind the scenes to deliver exceptional patient care. Amy has a Greyhound x Lurcher pooch at home and looks after horses, which she also enjoys riding in her spare time.
Drew Pennock
Nurse Auxiliary
Drew studied Animal Management and Agriculture at the Berkshire College of Agriculture and Sparsholt College before joining the farming industry. She then became a Prep Auxiliary Nurse at Fitzpatrick Referrals before joining HSR in 2020. Drew loves being an Auxiliary Nurse as she is able to help make a difference to the lives of our patients and no two days are ever the same! Outside of work Drew has two very spoilt guinea pigs and enjoys travelling.
Rosie Bassingthwaighte
Night Nurse Auxiliary
Rosie studied at Easton and Otley College, where she gained her Level 2 qualification in Assistant Animal Nursing. Prior to joining Hamilton’s, she was a night nurse assistant at a multi-disciplinary specialist referral hospital in Cambridgeshire. She has also worked in first opinion practices. Rosie enjoys working at Hamilton’s as there is a shared ethos to provide the highest level of specialist care. Outside of work, Rosie enjoys socialising with friends and spending time with her partner and three dogs.
Natalie Moore
Night Nurse Auxilary
Natalie
Karl Jones
ACPAT, CSP, HCPC
Head of Rehabilitation
After over 20 years’ rehabilitating armed forces’ personnel and elite athletes, Karl wanted to develop his interest in and passion for animals, so from 2007–2009 he trained and qualified as a veterinary physiotherapist. Karl's MSc research project investigated outcome measures following cranial cruciate surgery – work that will be very useful in future physiotherapy research. Working from his clinic in Berkshire and with Michael Hamilton at Hamilton Specialist Referrals, he and his team provide skilled, patient and compassionate veterinary rehabilitation. Karl works closely with US-based company Gait4Dog, which specialises in gait analysis using a pressure mat or an instrumented treadmill and video to gain a better understanding of an animal’s lameness, in order to offer a refined tailored programme following surgery or injury. In addition, Karl teaches students who are on the Veterinary Physiotherapy course at Liverpool University and Hartpury College, and speaks on veterinary rehabilitation at various congresses and symposia. He is a Category A member of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT), a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), and registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Walter Dingemanse
DVM, PhD, MRCVS
Physiotherapist
After graduating as a veterinary surgeon in 2011 (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University, Belgium), Walter stayed at the faculty working at the Department of Medical Imaging and Small Animal Orthopaedics. For the next 6 years he combined clinical work (CT, MRI imaging, orthopaedics) with research work on the role of joint biomechanics in the development of canine osteochondrosis. The use of gait analysis played a central role in his PhD research, combined with advanced biomechanical research techniques (musculoskeletal models) and medical imaging (CT). He successfully defended his PhD in June 2017 and moved to the UK in August 2017. His spare time is dedicated to training and competing in agility with his Border Collies, both nationally and internationally. Sports conditioning has always played a central role in Walter's dog training and provides the perfect link between work and agility.
Heather McDonnell
BSc (Hons) (Animal Biology)
Hydrotherapy Team Leader
Heather has always been passionate about working with animals and graduated from the University of Gloucestershire with a BSc Honours in Animal Biology. Heather’s dissertation focused on dog behaviour in animal shelters and was later published in an animal behaviour journal. Post-graduation Heather set up her own dog walking company and ran dog behaviour classes with the kennel club. In 2016 Heather completed her Level 3 Certificate at Greyfriars in Hydrotherapy and Treadmill Practice. Since completing her certification, she has worked at Theravet where she was exposed to and helped rehabilitate a diverse caseload of patients covering: pre and post op conditions in neurological, orthopaedic, spinal cases and soft tissue trauma. Heather has also worked with clients on general fitness, covering geriatric and weight loss to Olympia agility champions. In her spare time Heather enjoys being outdoors, keeping fit and currently Captains the local lady’s rugby team, the High Wycombe Belles. Last year Heather rescued two cheeky cats Arlo and Delilah.
Jenny Austin
BSc (Hons), MSc, MIRVAP(ICH)
Hydrotherapist
Jenny started her small animal hydrotherapy training in September 2018 and in May 2019 qualified as a Small Animal Hydrotherapist (Level 3 Certificate). Since February 2019 she has assisted the growing rehabilitation programme here at Hamilton Specialist Referrals with gait analysis research. Prior to small animal hydrotherapy training, Jenny worked as a Mortgage Administrator and as a Tour Guide on HMS Victory. Jenny has a First Degree and Masters Degree in Geoarchaeology but has now decided to follow her passion and childhood dream job of working with animals. In her spare time, Jenny loves to walk in the countryside with her Shetland Sheepdog Millie, hunt for antiques and have afternoon tea
Letty Piggott-Delves
BSc, MSc, PgD, NAVP, RAMP
Physiotherapist
Letty graduated from the Royal Veterinary College with a BSc in Veterinary Science in 2007 then went on to Aberystwyth University to gain an MSc in Equine Science in 2009. In 2017 she gained her Veterinary Physiotherapy qualification from Harper Adams University. Letty is a member of both the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP) and the Register for Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP). She is passionate about encouraging multimodal teamwork in the veterinary industry to provide the best treatment possible for patients. Letty has kept many pets including cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs, and more exotic species such as reptiles, amphibians, and many invertebrates. She currently has two corn snakes, a bearded dragon, an African grey parrot, and a colony of cockroaches! In her free time, she likes to be outside walking or gardening, has just started riding horses again after a 15-year break and plays second flute in the Giocoso concert band.
Elly Payne
BSc (Hons), NAVP
Physiotherapist
Elly graduated from Harper Adams University with a BSc Honours in Veterinary Physiotherapy in July 2018. As part of her degree, Elly spent 6 months at a small animal referral and physiotherapy centre. It was during this time she developed a keen interest in small animal osteoarthritis management, neurological and postoperative orthopaedic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Elly enjoys playing tennis and long country walks with her black Labrador, Monty.
Grace Mothersdale
Hydrotherapy Assistant
Grace joined Hamilton’s at the beginning of 2020 after working in Retail, the Medicine industry and on various Competitive yards, where she would be responsible for the care of a range of dressage horses. Grace enjoys her role at Hamilton’s as she learns a lot from other members of the rehabilitation team and enjoys the varied cases that she gets to see. Grace also finds the patient’s continuous improvements week on week very rewarding. She has her own Jack Russell cross Chihuahua called Bluebell and a Palomino pony called Amirah. In her spare time, Grace enjoys long walks with Bluebell and spending time riding and pampering Amirah.
Nicky Heilling
RVN, certVNECC, cert CFVHNut
Compliance Manager
Nicky started working with horses from a young age and was a show jumping and eventing groom for 4 years after leaving school. After having her two sons, Nicky decided it was time for a career change and trained as a veterinary nurse. Whilst working in a London-based small animal practice, Nicky studied at The College of Animal Welfare and qualified as an RVN at the beginning of 2009. Soon after this, Nicky became Head Nurse at her practice and has continued as a head nurse for most of her VN career. In 2013 Nicky and her family moved to Oxfordshire where she became head nurse at new practice, staying in this role for 5 years before progressing into a practice management role in 2018. Nicky joined HSR in June 2020 and thoroughly enjoys using her clinical and management experience to ensure everything runs smoothly. Outside of work, Nicky lives with her two grown up sons and their dogs, Jess and Cookie, bearded dragon Bella and turtle called Squirt.
Lizzie Cook
Office & HR Administrator
Before joining the HSR team in August 2019, Lizzie gained three and a half years’ client care and administration experience in two first opinion veterinary practices. Lizzie’s current role as Client Care Administrator sees her providing excellent client experience as well as an efficient and timely insurance process. She lives locally with her boyfriend and their very excitable cockapoo called Luna. In her spare time, Lizzie enjoys being creative with art and exploring new places with her little dog.
Martina Micurova
Office & HR Administrator
Martina moved to the UK in 2002 from Slovakia with her mum. After attending school here in the UK, she graduated with a Joint Honours in Art and Art History from the University of Reading. Prior to Hamilton Specialist Referrals, Martina worked in hospitality for 5 years, allowing her to gain vast experience in a customer facing role. Martina completed her management training in 2018 at her previous place of work. The training resulted in Martina gaining an interest in HR and Admin. This, combined with her love for animals, makes Martina’s role at HSR the perfect fit for her. Outside of work, she has 2 boisterous German Shepherds called Ash and Ember whom she loves to spend time with.
Rebekah Cannell
Executive Assistant to The Clinical Team
Rebekah has always loved animals and started work as a veterinary nurse in New Zealand in 2005. After 4 years she moved to Brisbane Australia, where she worked at the University of Queensland Veterinary Teaching Hospital for 3 years. Ready for another adventure, Rebekah moved to England in May 2013. She started locuming in different clinics around England, as a way of seeing the country, until she settled in London. A move to Buckinghamshire in 2020 gave Rebekah the opportunity to look for a new role closer to home. Ready for a change from nursing, but still wanting to be in the industry she loves, the role of Executive Assistant to The Clinical Team at HSR was just what she was looking for! Rebekah has her own cat, Bill, who she adopted when he was brought in as a stray kitten at one of her locum jobs.
Roo Goodwin
Communications and Marketing Manager
Roo has worked in the Veterinary Industry for 15 years and has worked in Referral Hospitals for most of this time. She studied Veterinary Nursing at The College of Animal Welfare and after working as a veterinary nurse for many years, moved into administrative, then management and communication roles. Roo spent some time working with HSR just prior to the hospital opening and is excited to be back now that we have grown, and she is even more excited to help that growth continue alongside a team skilled and dedicated people. Roo has two miniature schnauzers named Sprocket and Doozer, as well as a skittish little cat called Hershel. Outside of work she enjoys baking and tries to offset that by being a member of her local running club. Roo is a big music fan and loves attending gigs, and can often be found at the gigs of her favourite band.
Mary Galea
Client Care Assistant
Mary has gained a variety of experience in Client Care, having worked in customer service for 10 years, including three years in the veterinary industry. She has had an assortment of pets over the years including reptiles, dogs, fish and birds. Mary does agility with her two rescue dogs Holly and Darkley and German Spitz, Sweeney.
Sarah Pook
Client Care Assistant
After studying BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare at the University of West England, Sarah trained as a vet nurse in a first opinion practice. Before joining HSR she worked at The Blue Cross and Cats Protection. Sarah loves working in a team and engaging with our wonderful clients and finds the variety of cases that we see fascinating. Outside of work Sarah has two cats called Jaffa and Molly and enjoys the going to the gym, running, skiing and helping feral cats overseas.
Amber Burton
Client Care Assistant
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Rachel Nelson
Client Care Assistant
Rachel studied Illustration and Visual Communication at the Leeds College of Art before joining the education and construction industries. However, Rachel missed working alongside animals and later joined an equestrian yard where she discovered her love of looking after clients and coordinating services such as veterinary care. This love for helping clients and organisation drew her to join the Client Care Team at HSR in 2020. Rachel loves working in a fast paced environment where no two days are the same; the fact that she gets to see our lovely patients every day is a bonus too! She is excited about working for a company who make a difference, and enjoys working with and supporting some of the most interesting and innovative specialists in their field. Outside of work, Rachel has a rescue cat called Nala and enjoys horse riding, gardening and painting.
George Chilcott
BSc
Weekend Client Care Assistant
George studied BSc Zoology at Swansea University before joining the tourism and customer service industry. He is about to start his Masters Degree in Wild Animal Biology at the Royal Veterinary College, alongside his weekend work at HSR. George enjoys working at HSR as it combines his passion for Client Care with his love for animals and gives him a great insight in to the veterinary industry and the cutting edge treatments provided to HSR patients. Outside of work, George has a cockapoo puppy called Hendrix, a springer spaniel called Gwen and a tortoise called Digory. He enjoys dog walking, volunteering for various animal charities including rhino conservation in South Africa and travelling abroad.
Rochelle Dean
Office & Clinical Administrator
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Paloma Stahelin Castello
Clinical Administrator
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