Veterinary Surgeons

* Veterinary surgeons and dogs pictured above are (obviously!) models, and do not accurately represent today's staff. At Home Veterinary Services Ltd reserves the right to substitute surgeons and dogs (with ones of at least the same stature of Becky and her boys) without prior notice. No refunds will be given, and no correspondence will be entered into.

Guy Smith B.Vet.Med., MRCVS (Principal)

"Top dog", that's me in the middle. I've now started my 5th Decade on this planet, and it's quite a while since anyone said I look too young to be a vet. With 17 years of experience "In Practice", I may be approaching the peak of my powers.

That peak is not quite as high as I'd envisaged when I set up on my own 10 years ago, but as you'll note from the lack of sarcastic comments, and any traces of bitterness in my writing, I'm content with my place in the grand scheme of things.

I'm following the career that I've chosen, and I'm happy with my role as a general practitioner, in our small, family run practice. It's a pleasant working environment, with friendly staff, a lot of regular clients, and for the most part, appreciative patients.

If I could change anything about my role, it would be to spend less time "on call". However, in a caring profession, you can't just abandon your patients at the end of the day (Doctors take note), and whilst I can continue to find vets who'll "do their duty", we'll keep providing our own emergency cover.

Laura Fisher, B.V.Sc., MRCVS

Laura is our senior assistant. When I last updated this site, I mocked her diet of vegetables, and held it responsible for her "woeful" sickness record. However that single day off appears to have been an abberation, and during her time with the practice she's grown into a very good vet.

(I really should rise above it, but I've noticed another "competitor" on my patch. They employ "Superb" vets who spend regular afternoons vaccinating dogs in garden centres. Now I know it's only hypothetical (I don't believe the "Thank-you" cards), but if I was a "superb", or "talented" vet, I'd probably be looking to do something a bit more challenging or varied.

Laura has a balanced portfolio of "pets". She already had cats, but since she's been with us she's acquired a delightful dog, Daisy and a (delightful's a bit strong, but she must think he's ok) husband, Johnny. She's quite busy now with their training.

Victoria Tudor, M.V.Dr., MRCVS

I'm tiring of vets not settling in Tamworth, and returning to their roots. I've lost Niall and Becky to geography (that's what I'm telling myself- It couldn't be me surely!). To counter this I've gone for a vet who has minimal incentive to return home. As we didn't have any applicants from Dudley,  I've gambled on Vicki, from Stoke!

Vicki joined us in Summer 2011 and has settled in well. She's a good communicator (if you don't mind the Stoke accent), and she still talks to the patients when they're deeply anaesthetised or even deceased.

Vicki lives with Bosco, a black labrador, and that's "till death us do part". I don't update the website regularly enough to keep you informed of her relationship status. She's probably got a boyfriend, but phone us to check availability if you're interested.

"Old At Homeians"

Niall Morton, BVMS, MRCVS * Relocated to our Carnoustie branch*

 (I'll leave the photo for comedy value!)

"Nice Niall" has gone back to his roots. Our receptionists have been counselling his fans, who now have the stark choice of either making the 6 hour journey to see Niall, or making do with one of us instead!

Rebecca Bryant BVSc, MRCVS

Gone back to the South coast. With "power boating" on her CV, Tamworth was maybe not her destiny. We hope she manages to cope with her 1 in 8 out of hours rota. (Part timer!)

Alistair Wilson, BVMS, MRCVS *Gone again*

We've kept a photo, but he hasn't worked for us recently. Gone for good ? You never know with Alistair.

Eubie Saayman, BVSc, MRCVS*Who?*

A big character, but with hands more suited to a rugby pitch than an operating theatre. I taught him everything he knew, but then he left to pursue "other business interests". I presume he must have been offered a rugby contract.

John Daft, BVM&S *End of range- discontinued*

John was our regular locum until he retired. We wish him well, (but wish he hadn't.)

Registered Veterinary Nurses

All 3 of our nurses are qualified, and on the RCVS Register. A "Grumpy old man" point of view is that I spent a lot of time and money on their training, only to have to pay them more now that they're qualified.

A more balanced view is that our patients will be nursed by trained professionals who are also homegrown. They provide a high standard of care, and help with the continuity of the practice.

I really should name and shame them. Ironically Gemma, Kelly(-Marie), and Claire are all originals. (Maybe now I've put their names on here, they'll start leaving like the vets have done)

Receptionists

We keep it in the family, and maybe that's a strength of our Practice. You'll usually find either my Wife or Mother-in-Law behind reception, assisted by a number of dogs.

"Beauty and the Beast" Competition

...Win a lifetime*'s supply  of pet food** if you can guess which is which.

Hannah Smith

Our youngest member of staff (aged 7 years) is away from the practice, having started an 18 year sabbatical to become a vet. Unfortunately since she's started school she now likes the idea of becoming a teacher, and it's possible that my retirement plans might be put on hold.

* Lifetime refers to a stick insect's lifetime. ** Pet food is privet which you will have to harvest yourself. Judges decision final. Competition not open to Staff or relatives. No cash equivalent. Beware special offers. Always read the small print!