Purina welcomes our new resident vet, Dr Lisa Chimes.
From an early age, Dr Lisa Chimes wanted to be a vet. In 2006 her dream came true when she graduated from Sydney University with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (First Class Honours).
While studying, she spent her weekends nursing at the Rose Bay Veterinary Hospital and tutoring high school students in biology and maths. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for providing specialist and compassionate care for dogs and cats.
Following her studies, she completed her internship in veterinary emergency and critical care in Melbourne. Then in 2008 she took up a position SASH - the Small Animal Specialist Hospital - in North Ryde, Sydney.
When she isn't saving the lives of cats and dogs at SASH she is a co-presenter on 'Bondi Vet' and writes 'Pet Chat with Lisa' in Girl Power Magazine. She has also been a guest speaker on Pet Talk radio.
In her downtime, she loves taking her Poodle Cavalier Cross dogs, Nelson and Lucas, for a walk in the park or by the beach.
She also has a passion for baking - however, she never cooks for Nelson and Lucas as she believes they get the best nutrition from a quality dog food formula, such as PURINA ONE.
Dr. Lisa Chimes Q&A
We spoke with Dr Lisa Chimes to learn why she loves animals and why helping animals is more than just a job.
When did you realise you wanted to work with animals?
I always rescued animals as a young child – pigeons, stray dogs, lizards. I used to talk about being a vet at that time, but didn't actually understand the reality of the job; that it involves a lot of sadness, too. I then thought I was not tough enough to deal with that, and only decided to be a vet at the end of school.
What do you love most about your job?
I help look after the critical care/ICU patients, as well as consult for any emergencies. I love the reunion of animals and their owner once they have recovered. There is nothing better than seeing a dog's wagging tail or purring cat when they are sent home to their families. It is so much more than a job, it is my passion.
What is it like filming Bondi Vet?
Filming Bondi Vet allows me to develop connections with people in a way that would not normally happen during a consultation. People tend to express their emotions a lot more when in front of the camera and I have learned a lot about people's lives. It's great working with people from a different industry. It helps keep my job even more interesting.
What is your most unique or challenging case?
I helped treat a four-year- old German Shepherd that developed bone marrow disease for an unknown reason. We treated him for many weeks and performed numerous tests on him. His illness remains a medical mystery. Unfortunately, the outcome was very sad, but I made such a deep connection with that patient and his family. I will never forget them.
What do you do in your downtime?
I am a bit of a shopaholic. I love watching movies, taking Pilates classes and painting. But there is nothing better than taking my dogs to the park and watching them run around with their ball.
Tell us about your pets.
Nelson is a five-year-old Cavalier Poodle cross. He's very loyal and ball-obsessed. Lucas is a very cheeky nine-month-old Cavalier Poodle cross puppy, but the most affectionate dog I've ever had. Ralph is 13 years old, a Bichon Frise and lives with my parents. Sadly, he lost his sight to glaucoma, but copes very well. He adores his family and loves to be cuddled. Simon is my six-year-old rabbit (Dwarf cross). He was dumped in alley as a baby and was brought in to the clinic where I worked. I took him home for one night and he never left!
How do you pamper your pets?
They are groomed every six weeks and are brushed daily. They watch television when I'm out. They also accompany me on day-to-day errands.
How can pets benefit from eating PURINA ONE?
PURINA ONE helps make their coats soft and shiny. It keeps their digestive system regular, their teeth and bones strong and healthy, and assists with immune function and general wellbeing. I wouldn't feed my dogs anything else.
What cold weather tips do you have for pet owners?
Our pets do feel the cold. To help alleviate this, put coats on small or short-haired dogs, especially if they are sensitive to the cold. Dry them off thoroughly after a walk in the rain. Don't allow them to become overweight if they are less active during the cooler weather.
Do you have a 'pet philosophy' in life?
Pets are a privilege. They provide us with unconditional love and companionship and they deserve to be given the best possible life through responsible pet ownership. This not only includes lots of love and attention, but a high quality diet and regular vet checks, too.