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 & RCVS RECOGNISED 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 Tim Easter
BVMedSci BVM BVS MRCVS
Surgical Registrar (Orthopaedics)
Tim qualified from the University of Nottingham in 2013, ranking first in his year group. He then went on to work in a small animal practice in Sussex before embarking upon an internship at Willows Referral Service. Tim returned to small animal practice for a further two years before undertaking his surgical residency, again at Willows Referral Service, which he completed in 2020. Tim has published research regarding the management of humeral intracondylar fissures, and he has presented at national and international conferences. Outside of work Tim has a British shorthair cat, Rio, and two young children to keep him busy.
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 Jane Ladlow
MA VetMB DipECVS CertSAS CertVR MRCVS
RCVS and European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery (Soft Tissue)
.Jane, has nearly 20 years’ experience as a European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery specialist clinician, researcher, teacher and lecturer. Her main focus for the last 10 years has been upper airway disease in dogs. As the clinical lead of the Cambridge Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) Research Group, she has been instrumental in the introduction of objective, non-invasive assessment of airway function, identifying risk factors for BOAS, clinical diagnosis, breeding guidelines and the development of new surgical techniques (laser turbinectomy and laryngeal surgeries). She has extensive experience of general surgery, and particularly enjoys oncology surgery, with an emphasis on treatments that are kind to owners and animals. Jane was the 2019 recipient of the BSAVA Simon Award for outstanding contributions in the field of veterinary surgery.
Dr Ben Mielke
BVSc (Hons) MRCVS
Soft Tissue Surgeon
Ben completed his undergraduate degree in Veterinary Science at Melbourne University, before going on to complete his Masters in Veterinary Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College.
He worked as a mixed animal vet in rural Australia for 2 years prior to moving to the UK to start the road to specialisation. He completed his residency training at the Royal Veterinary College and worked there as a Lecturer in Small Animal Surgery.
Ben’s interests include oncological surgery and thoracic surgery and he looks forward to offering a range of different surgical options at HSR for complex conditions, particularly in the area of minimally invasive surgery.
Ben has an Australian Cattle Dog called Winne. Outside of work he enjoys riding his bike, and teaching his son to ride too!
Dr Stefanie Mitze
DVM DipECVIM-CA (Internal Medicine) MRCVS
EBVS European Veterinary Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine
Stefanie studied Veterinary Medicine in Budapest and went on to specialise in Internal Medicine. She has extensive experience of working in multi-disciplinary referral environments, both in Germany and the UK having moved here in 2018.
Stefanie joined HSR in January 2021 to start our Medicine service which she feels is an important 'missing link' between all disciplines. She is passionate about all areas of Internal Medicine but "especially endocrinology, gastroenterology, haematology, nephrology, pulmology…"
She has a mare called Marcella who has been with her for more than 20 years. Outside of work she is kept busy by her son and also enjoys various sports, including: yoga, karate, cycling, running and swimming.
Dr Andrew Francis
BVSc CertVC DipECVIM-CA MRCVS
European and RCVS Recognised Specialist in Veterinary Cardiology
Andrew
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 Marieke De Vries
PhD CertVA DipECVAA DVM MRCVS
EBVS® European Specialist in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia
Marieke graduated in Veterinary Medicine from Utrecht University in 2001 before completing an anaesthesia internship then residency at Cambridge. She has plenty of referral experience having previously worked Wey Referrals, Animal Health Trust and Davies. Most recently, Marieke has spent 4 years back in the Netherlands as head of small anaesthesia at Utrecht University.
Marieke enjoys the direct patient contact and being able to make an individual plan for each patient’s anaesthesia and pain management. She is excited to join the dedicated team at HSR, all hard working and passionate about providing the best patient care with facilities comparable to a human hospital.
Marieke has 2 rescue dogs and a 12 year old Dutch Warmblood mare. Her pets take up a lot of her time but she always enjoys being outside riding, walking and gardening, as well as cooking and baking at home. She is happy to be back in the UK and able to see her friends here more regularly.
Marieke has been a member of the AVA (Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists) Executive Committee for several years; is co-editor of the 3rd BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Anaesthesia and Analgesia; is an examiner for the ECVAA and since 2018 a member of the ECVAA exam committee.
Dr Carolina Urraca
DVM CertVDI DipECVDI MRCVS
Diagnostic Imaging Consultant
Carolina studied Veterinary Medicine at Cordoba in Spain, before moving to Edinburgh where she did an internship and then residency in imaging.
She joined HSR in January 2021 looking forward to the challenge of helping to make our independent referral centre the best one in the country, all while helping the team to make the animals better.
Carolina has two rescue dogs and a cat. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her family (2 children with a third on the way!) and reading, sewing and painting.
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 Chris Webb
MA VetMB PgC(SAS) PgDip(VCP) MRCVS
Veterinary Intern
Chris was born and raised in High Wycombe, (and even attended Hamilton primary school!). 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 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
Neurology 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’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 work, 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 Calin Bratu
MRCVS
Surgical Intern
Calin studied Veterinary Medicine at the University of Agriculture Science and Veterinary Medicine in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Having graduated in 2008, he moved to the UK in 2010 and started an internship in Manchester for 18 months. He moved to Norfolk in 2012 and has been working in small animal practice since.
Calin is excited to join HSR as an intern to have the chance to learn from top class specialists and he hopes one day to be in the position to specialise in surgery.
Calin has a domestic long-haired rescue cat called Taco. Outside of work he enjoys gardening and travelling, and has a small workshop where he can build small projects, wood carving and some metal work.
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)
Hospital & HR Director
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)
Hospital 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.
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.
Kat Crane
RVN
Nurse Manager
Kat studied Veterinary Nursing with MYF Training, before completing her Graduate Diploma in Professional and Clinical Veterinary Nursing at the Royal Veterinary College. Prior to joining HSR she worked within both first opinion and referral hospitals.
Kat enjoys the variety and challenges each day brings, and loves training and supporting others to fulfil their full potential within their role.
She has a collie cross and outside of work enjoys horse riding, hiking and aerial hoop.
Hayley Barber-West
RVN
Advanced Imaging Nurse Practitioner
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 two Dalmatians and cheeky Border Terrier 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 work towards the Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Nursing.
Holly Cadman
RVN
Soft Tissue Nurse Practitioner
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
Neurology Nurse Practitioner
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.
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.
Hannah Smith
RVN
Day Nurse
Hannah studied obtained a BSc in Psychology from the University of Reading, before studying for the diploma in Veterinary Nursing at MYF college. Prior to joining HSR she has worked in first opination practice for 7 years, and has also spent time overseas volunteering for veterinary charities in Borneo, Vietnam and China.
Hannah relishes being part of improving the lives of animals, whether owned pets, stray or wild animals. She is looking forward to having a very varied job and constantly learning new things at HSR.
She has a dog who she rescued in a very bad way from the streets in China. In her spare time, she enjoys lots of dog walking, socialising with friends, gardening and crocheting.
Ellie Giles
RVN
Day Nurse
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Rebecca Baron
RVN
Ward Lead
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.
Emma Samways
RVN
Ward Nurse
Emma studied Veterinary Nursing with MYF Training. Prior to joining HSR she worked a Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. Emma is excited to provide a high quality of care to our patients and is very keen to learn new information and skills.
Emma does not currently have any pets of her on but has fostered several pets, and the family dog Ace (a Staffordshire Bull Terrier) also keeps her busy.
Outside of work she enjoys yoga, tending her houseplants and socialising with family and friends.
Charlotte Whiteley
RVN
Ward Nurse
Charlotte studied Veterinary Nursing at the College of Animal Welfare in Leeds. She has been working as a Veterinary Nurse for 20 years, including 15 years of experience in orthopaedic work.
Charlotte is interested to expand her knowledge and understanding, learning new skills whilst maintaining high standards of patient and client care.
Charlotte has a cat called Mojo. Outside of work she is a keen mountain biker, and has biked all over Europe as well as within the UK.
Sophie France
RVN
Ward Nurse
Sophie obtained her diploma of Veterinary Nursing at the college of Animal Welfare.
Following her previous nursing experience she has joined HSR eager to learn new things and become part of a large hospital that provides the best of medical care to patients.
Sophie has four cats, named: Peaches, Robin, Hugo and Erik. Outside of work she enjoys cooking, walking and spending time with her friends and family.
Elena Bullock
Admit Nurse
Elena completed her Veterinary Nursing diploma at The College of Animal Welfare. She has been working in the veterinary world for 4 years, having previously worked in the NHS.
Elena joined us in November 2020 as Admit Nurse, and relishes the opportunity to meet our clients as well as caring for their pets. She is delighted to be joining such a strong nursing team and looks forward to expanding her knowledge.
Elena has a cat called Skipper and a python called Monty! Outside of work she enjoys reading, creative writing, fitness and video games.
Sarah Ginger
RVN
Ward Lead
Sarah
Hannah Dineen
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.
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.
Zoe Ganderton
RVN
Night Nurse
Zoe
Jessica Thomson
RVN
Night Nurse
Jessica studied Veterinary Nursing at Moreton Morrell college and since qualifying in 2017 has been working in first opinion practice.
Jessica has a keen interest in emergency and critical care, and looks forward to providing inpatient care following orthopaedic surgery and high-risk neuro cases that need intensive care.
Jessica has four cocker spaniels (Rollie, Minnie, Floss and 3-legged Ivy) as well as two horses (Hamish and Clyde), Outside of work she enjoys hiking, cooking and going to the gym.
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.
Abi Sheppard
Nurse Auxiliary
Abi studied English Literature at the University of Brighton and has worked in customer service and journalism roles before starting with HSR. As this is her first veterinary role, she is looking forward to learning more about animal health and being part of helping animals.
Abi has fish and two cats. Outside of work she enjoys reading, attending the gym and going on nature walks. She has a passion for conservation.
Lauren Tackley
Nurse Auxiliary
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Chris Corio
NURSE AUXILIARY
Chris studied Forensic Science an English Language at East Berkshire College in Windsor. He has previously worked in retail and in the education sector.
Chris is pleased to be joining a close knit team to provide amazing care to animals, he is looking forward to adding to his knowledge of the veterinary industry at HSR.
Chris has 2 cats and a black Labrador retriever. Outside of work he is a sports lover and has been a quarterback on his local American Football team for the past 4 years. He also enjoys music and is currently learning to play guitar.
Keirsty Bryant
Nurse Auxiliary
Keirsty has previously worked in retail and children’s safeguarding. She has been a volunteer at RSPCA Blackberry Farm and has been hoping to make the move to animal care for her career.
Keirsty is excited to be working for HSR as she appreciates that we are an independent and is very interested in the specialisms that we offer.
Outside of work she has an interested in learning about animal biology, behaviour and health. She has had countless pets and currently has a lovely house rabbit named Riley. She loves to read, watch films, play computer games and to colour, draw and meditate to relax. She is learning to horse ride and is a ballet dancer who has been dancing for 20 years.
Alice Bowen
NURSE AUXILIARY
Alice studied at the College of Animal Welfare and has experience working in veterinary nursing environment.
Having worked with a small team previously, Alice is excited to join a large hospital and to continue to learn about the specialist procedures carried out at HSR.
Alice has two rescue cats, one of whom she hand-reared as a kitten.
Much of Alice's time outside of work is taken up with caring for her young daughter, who seems to share her mother's fascination with animals.
Chloe Fisher
Nurse Auxiliary
Chloe studied TV and Film at the University of Portsmouth and went on to work in the hospitality industry prior to joining HSR at the start of 2021.
She looks forward to the challenges of a new role and as an animal lover is looking forward to working with all our patients.
Chloe has a dog named Perry and outside of work she enjoys travelling, seeing friends and relaxing in front of a film or boxset.
Karen Caine
Nurse Auxiliary
Karen has worked as a groom and horse riding instructor, as well as working in a school as a swimming teacher and a learning support assistant.
She joined the team in January 2021, keen to learning new skill, learn to understand the different specialisms and offer the best care for all the animals.
Karen has a horse who has been with her for over 17 years. Her family has a total of 5 dogs and 6 ferrets. Outside of work she enjoys riding, paddle boarding, baking and crafting.
Amy Campling
NURSE AUXILIARY
Amy studied Animal Care and Animal Management at BCA College of Agriculture in Maidenhead, and has worked in childcare and administrative roles prior to joining HSR.
Amy relishes the opportunity to be able to help animals, develop her skills and achieve new qualifications.
Amy has a cat called Molly and a Leopard Gecko called Doctor Evil. Outside of work she enjoys watching TV/movies (ranging from Disney to horror) and cosplaying as different characters including Harley Quinn.
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 Auxiliary
Natalie
Lucy Lee
Night Nurse Auxiliary
Lucy studied Veterinary Physiotherapy at Harper Adams university, and prior to starting with HSR has worked at a riding school.
She looks forward to working in a different environment with lots of new challenges and opportunities to learn.
Lucy has three cats, a dog and a horse and outside of work she enjoys riding, and Girl Guiding.
Caoimhe Sweeney
Pharmacy & Lab Tech
Caoimhe completed her BSc (hons) in Bioveterinary Science at the University of West England and obtained her MSc in Veterinary Pharmacy at Harper Adams.
She joined HSR at the start of 2021 in our new role as Pharmacy and Lab technician, and looks forward to making the role her own and seeing such a variety of cases.
Outside of work Caoimhe has a Golden Doodle and enjoys singing, climbing and meeting friends.
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.
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.
Martina Micurova
HR & Operations Assistant
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.
Gary Maitland
Credit Controller
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Kirsten Mitchell
Client Care Manager
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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.
Amber Burton
Client Care Assistant
Amber previously worked as a New Car Sales Executive for Ford, before starting a role as a receptionist at a first opinion vet practice and finding the veterinary world was a perfect fit. She worked in this role for around 3 years before joining HSR. Amber is enjoying the fast pace of referral work, and the variety of cases that come through the door – never knowing what the day may bring.
Amber has two rescue cats, 2-year-old Kingston and youngster Bluebell. Both came from tough starts but have flourished in their new home. Kingston lives up to his name and is very much a King, while Bluebell loves playing with water.
In her spare time Amber enjoys an evening of board games with friends and family. She recently got married at a destination wedding in St Lucia and is still enjoying showing everyone the beautiful photos.
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.
Louise Pine
Client Care Assistant
Louise studied Travel and Tourism at Reading College before starting work in first opinion veterinary practice. She loves animals and also enjoys talking to clients, both face to face and over the phone. She is excited to join HSR as at her previous practice and they frequently referred cases to us and she found the team to be brilliant and caring.
Louise has 4 cats and 2 parrots. Outside of work she enjoys going to the zoo, watching movies and playing some sports for fun like basketball, cricket and badminton. She has done some pet sitting outside of work.
Tasha Ottaway
Client Care Assistant
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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
Rochelle has studied genetics and zoology at the University of Pretoria. Prior to joining HSR she worked for three years as a bird trainer, as well as in PA and sales management roles.
Rochelle has always had an interest in working with animals, and relishes the opportunity to learn new things, and her role at HSR checks both those boxes.
She has a Scottish Terrier called Angus who has remained in South Africa living with family and his ‘sister’ Barbie the Bull Terrier. Outside of work Rochelle enjoys anything adventurous including hiking and scuba diving.
Maria Jeskins-Powell
Office & Clinical Administrator
Maria has previously worked in computer programming, before starting work in an admin role at a first opinion practice. She joined HSR as one of our Clinical Administration team in January 2021.
Maria has 3 dogs, 3 cats, 2 horses, 10 sheep and a few chickens! They all keep her pretty busy, but in any spare time she enjoys horse riding.
Tamara Jovicevic
Clinical Administrator
Tamara studied Veterinary Nursing at Middlesex University and has worked in the industry for 5 years, including 2 years of referrals nursing.
She looks forward to making the move to supporting the team from the office and appreciates HSR’s high standards of staff care, client care and most importantly patient care.
Tamara has a 9-year-old labradoodle called Masha, 3 cats, a horse and chickens. Outside of work she enjoys indoor and outdoor rock climbing, reading, going on walks and motorbike rides and swimming.
Sarah Pook
Office & Clinical 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.
