Lai Chu Chan

Practice Owner

Practice owner and veterinarian, Chan, obtained her Veterinary degree from the University of Sydney in 1991. In 2009, Chan completed her Diploma in Veterinary Acupuncture from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) www.ivas.org and incorporates TCVM using acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, in addition to her Western Veterinary practice. Chan is a member of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) www.ava.com.au and a member of the Australian Veterinary Acupuncture Group (AVAG) www.acuvet.com.au, a special Interest Group of the AVA.

She is also studying Veterinary Herbal medicine through the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine www.tcvm.com. When not at work, Chan enjoys spending time with her family, and volunteering for the Cairns & District Chinese Association Inc (CADCAI) where her passion lies in promoting Chinese culture with the CADCAI Chinese and lion dance youth group.

Fiona

Registered Veterinary Nurse

Fiona has almost 13 years of nursing experience under her belt, she entered the industry in 2011 and became fully qualified in 2014. Fiona has a particular interest in surgery, dentistry, feline behaviour and nursing care and nurse consultations. Outside of nursing, Fiona enjoys going to comedy gigs with friends and checking out the latest foodie hot spots and food trucks. She also has a dangerous talent for baking amazing sweet treats, which she loves sharing with her friends and colleagues.

Fiona has two gorgeous cats, Lima and Fleur as well as one wonderful dog and Carlo that keep her busy on her days off.

Siobhan Kehoe

Administration

Siobhan has been with us since Grade 10, starting as a Junior, and we’re thrilled to now have her as a full-time member of our team. After completing Grade 12, Siobhan went on to achieve her Level 3 Vet Nursing qualification in 2021. She’s currently expanding her expertise at James Cook University, pursuing a Bachelor of Zoology and Ecology. As our current Practice Manager, Siobhan brings a unique combination of hands-on experience, passion for animal care, and academic dedication to her role, helping us deliver the best care possible for our clients and patients.

Saffron Thomas

Trainee Veterinary Nurse

Meet Saffron she has love for all animals but has a soft spot especially for cats. She graduated from high school in 2021 and is studying Certificate 3 in Animal Studies with Australian College of Veterinary Nursing. 

Brylee Crane

Kennel Hand

Meet Brylee she has a lifelong love passion for horses and a deep understanding of their needs. She applies that same dedication to every animal in our care. We are glad to have her as her enthusiasm is infectious. She is currently studying Certificate 3 in Animal Studies with Skills Generation. 

Toby

Client Relations

Meet Toby he's the newest member of our team. He is currently in training to be a Feline Therapist.

Ashes

Clinic Dog

Ashes is our senior clinic dog. Back in 2014 she came to our clinic as a 6weeks old puppy full of worms and paralysed from the hips down.  Ashes was one of Dr Chan first acupuncture patients by 3 months she was able to stand supported, 4 months stand without support and at 6 months she was able to run in her own unique way. You see her frequently sunbaking and looking for treats at the clinic. 

Ronaldo

Clinic Dog

Meet Ronaldo our newest hire of 2025! He’s a Rhodesian Ridgeback in training to be our clinic dog. His favorite part of the job? Using those irresistible eyes to score extra liver treats! When he’s not on treat patrol, he’s enjoying Dr. Chan’s cooking, lounging in sunny spots and spreading good vibes all around. Stay tuned as he continues to settle into his role!