About Us
Our staff provide compassionate, community-based expert care to your beloved pets.
It’s important to us that you and your pets always feel at ease in our hospital, and we take a thoughtful and gentle approach to treatment and consultations to ensure that your experience is always a positive one. As pet owners ourselves, we understand that having a sick pet can be a stressful time, and whether your visit is due to a medical problem or routine healthcare we appreciate the importance of timely and comprehensive information, and sound advice from experts.
Sylvania Veterinary Hospital has extended opening hours from 7am every day of the week, until 11pm on weeks days and 8pm on weekends, to provide greater access to specialist veterinary care. We have a sophisticated and fully equipped hospital with the latest diagnostic technology, a well-stocked pharmaceutical store, and team of animal-loving vets and nurses who are leaders in their field.
Vets
Dr David Lee
Principal VeterinarianDavid is the principal veterinarian of Sylvania Veterinary Hospital. Throughout his career he has gained tremendous knowledge and experience working in some of the largest veterinary hospitals in Australia
More about David
More about David
Dr Michelle Sutherland
Senior Veterinarian & Hospital DirectorMichelle has been with us at Sylvania Veterinary Hospital since 2007, and is one of our senior veterinarians.
More about Michelle
More about Michelle
Dr Rachel Hennings
VeterinarianRachel is our newest veterinarian, graduating in 2016 from Sydney University. She is originally from the USA, but is now is enjoying life in Australia.
More about Rachel
More about Rachel
Dr Emily Lucas
VeterinarianEmily is a graduate of the University of Sydney, having completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 2011.
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More about Emily
Nurses
Nikeah Locke
Head NurseNikeah is another one of our hardworking, dedicated nursing team.
More about Nikeah
More about Nikeah
Renee Bartyn
Veterinary NurseRenee is another one of our hardworking and highly qualified nurses.
More about Renee
More about Renee
Vicki Cawsey
Veterinary NurseVicki is a nurse with many years of experience, having worked in local practices within the Sutherland shire for over 20 years.
More about Vicki
More about Vicki
Toby Williams
Veterinary NurseToby has worked with us at Sylvania Veterinary Hospital for 5 years, and is a much loved member of our nursing staff.
More about Toby
More about Toby
Practice Co-ordinator
Kim Fata
Practice Co-ordinatorKim originally hails from the United States, and brings with her lots of experience and enthusiasm.
More about Kim
More about Kim
Community
At Sylvania Veterinary Hospital, we see our role in the community as advocates of animal welfare. Whether that involves charitable work to help underprivileged pet owners, education, or assisting homeless animals, we aim to make a difference to the health and wellbeing of animals in the Shire and beyond.
Pets in the Park
We are are proud supporters of this nation-wide charity that cares for pets owned by people who are homeless and at risk of becoming homeless. Pets play an important role in their lives in the provision of companionship and emotional comfort, and without the support of Pets in the Park, veterinary care is often out of reach. We help by providing veterinary care directly, and assisting with the charity’s coordination and fund-raising activities.
Labrador Rescue
Established in 2007, Labrador Rescue’s aim is to rescue abandoned, abused, neglected and unwanted Labradors and find them loving homes where they are considered part of the family. The organisation is a registered charity and is run solely by volunteers who donate their time and open their homes to rescued dogs. Labrador Rescue has rehomed over 1,500 Labradors (and some Labracats), and no dog needing a home is turned away.
Sutherland Shire & City of Sydney Animal Shelter
The Animal Shelter is operated in partnership with the City of Sydney and houses dogs and cats that have been found stray, abandoned, or have been seized. New homes are sought for animals that cannot be returned to their owners. Prior to rehoming, dogs and cats are desexed, lifetime-registered, vaccinated and microchipped. The shelter has a wide range of dogs and cats for adoption, including puppies and kittens and all are temperament tested prior to being made availlable for adoption.
WIRES
WIRES (Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service) has been rescuing and caring for native animals since 1985, and aims to actively rehabilitate and preserve Australian wildlife and inspire others to do the same. WIRES assists tens of thousands of animals every year, and has a dedicated Rescue Office that operates 365 days a year assisting the community to help native animals in distress.
Pound Paws
Pound Paws encourages prospective pet owners to adopt instead of shop, and uses modern social media tools to increase awareness of animals for adoption including those in pounds. They discourage backyard breeders that contribute to the oversupply of dogs and cats in Australia.
Community Involvement
As pet owners and members of the local community, we are keen to get involved in events and ways that provide the opportunity to raise awareness of animal welfare issues and education about responsible pet ownership.
Looking for local support?
Contact our Hospital Director, Dr Michelle Sutherland at michelle.sutherland@sylvaniavet.com.au.