Purpose
To make sure all pets enjoy healthy and happy lives with the people who love them.
Vision
We will be the animal hospital for all pets, embraced by the community, trusted and treasured.
Mission
To bring people together over a shared love of animals.
Since 1936, Lort Smith has been here for Melbourne’s pets and their people.
Lort Smith, Australia’s largest not for profit animal hospital, has been a part of the fabric of the Melbourne community since it was established in 1936 as the Lort Smith Lyle Hospital for Sick and Injured Animals.
Our services and programs have offered hope to those less fortunate over the decades.
Proceeds from our veterinary clinics and hospital are used to help care for abandoned or mistreated animals, and to support people in crisis to care for and keep their pets.
Our Adoption Centre rehabilitates and rehomes abandoned, mistreated or surrendered pets to loving new families, and our community outreach programs help to support pets and people through ties of crisis or financial disadvantage.
Lort Smith Animal Hospital and Clinic – North Melbourne
First established in 1936, Lort Smith North Melbourne Animal Hospital provides clinical services and surgeries for pets of all species. From routine check-ups to emergency treatment, our team of 45 vets and 68 nurses are here for Melbourne’s pets and their people.
Lort Smith Adoption Centre and Clinic – Campbellfield
Lort Smith Campbellfield is more than just an adoption centre and veterinary clinic – it’s a purpose-built facility designed with your pet’s well-being in mind. With a focus on holistic care and a fear-free environment, our team of vets and nurses offers high-quality and affordable services, while emergency and overnight care are available at our North Melbourne location.
Pet Therapy program
For 38 years, the Pet Therapy program has been bringing comfort and relief to those in need across Melbourne. Our specially assessed dogs – accompanied by dedicated volunteers – visit hospitals, care facilities, and justice settings, offering support during times of illness, adversity, and loneliness.
Emergency Welfare Assistance program
In times of crisis, our Emergency Welfare Assistance program provides short-term accommodation and foster care for pets belonging to individuals facing domestic violence, extended medical treatment, or homelessness.
Good Shepherd
As a partner of Lort Smith, Good Shepherd offers No Interest Loans (NILs) to individuals on low incomes, providing financial assistance of up to $2,000 for veterinary costs. These loans must be arranged prior to payment. For more information, please consult our team or contact a NILs provider near you.