Dr Amanda started at Lort Smith in 2009. Originally, she wanted to be a veterinarian at SeaWorld Gold Coast. But after working with small animals, she found her calling with companion animals-especially the people who care for them.

There are many aspects that Amanda values about working at Lort Smith. “I love the team effort and approach – our people are passionate and caring.

Our environment is one of learning and best practice. We all gather new information from conferences and learning then implement it. Our facilities are great – ICU, ultrasounds, medical consultants, CT scanner, theatres, radiology, I feel blessed to have these tools to use.

Amanda commonly sees first opinion cases including puppy and kitten vaccinations, through to skin problems and emergency cases. She also has some long-term care cases where the pet has several medical issues she endeavours to balance. Amanda also practices integrative veterinary medicine and acupuncture.

COVID-19 has seen Lort Smith focus on emergency, urgent and essential care. Amanda is now carrying out phone consultations with long-term care clients, repeat medication requests, behavioural issues and second opinion cases. Amanda looks forward to her first video consult!

In person she is treating really unwell patients suffering from; vomiting, diarrhoea, collapse, heart disease and inappetence. Amanda is conducting many consults outdoors, then examining the pet separately without the carer. She describes it as a very new experience but one that Lort Smith has adopted in line with social distancing rules.

“Our team of veterinary staff combined with our facilities make us a great force to care for the needs of animals. Our ICU is well equipped and the staff passionate. Our nurses have adapted to the phone triaging while still prioritising those animals most in need. They are superb in ensuring any animal in pain or distress is attended to promptly and relieved of their pain,” says Amanda.

Thank you Amanda for your care, compassion and ability to adapt to an unprecedented situation.