An Interview with..

Welcome to this newsletter’s section where we get to know the dedicated individuals behind the scenes at Vet’s Klinic. This time around, we had the pleasure of chatting with Adrian, one of the original members of the team when Vet’s Klinic first opened its doors. Adrian has been at the centre of Vet’s Klinic since its inception, and has been key to the development of the Practice.

Meet Our Veterinary Director: Adrian Caunter

We are delighted to introduce (or reintroduce) you to Adrian Caunter, Veterinary Director at Vet’s Klinic Swindon. Adrian’s passion for animals, commitment to accessible veterinary care and dedication to both pets and people are at the very heart of everything we do. We sat down with him to learn more about his journey, his inspirations, and life behind the scenes at Vet’s Klinic.

Here he is pictured at his wedding last year with his beautiful bride, Debbie, a Veterinary Nurse.

1. Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Vet’s Klinic Swindon? I grew up in Paignton, Devon, and from a very young age I knew I wanted to be a vet. Animals were always a huge part of my life, and as a youngster I volunteered at Paignton Zoo, which only strengthened that ambition and gave me invaluable early exposure to animal care. I went on to study Veterinary Science at the University of Bristol, and further developed my clinical knowledge by completing additional training in Veterinary Pathology through the RCVS. My journey eventually led me to Swindon, where I was offered an opportunity to build a new kind of veterinary practice, one that combines clinical excellence with genuine accessibility for all pet owners. That vision became Vet’s Klinic.

2. Do you have any pets? Could you tell us a bit about them?

Yes, I share my home with two cats, Gary and Gordon, who are both rescues. They each came with their own backstories and personalities, and adopting them has been incredibly rewarding. They keep me entertained, grounded and constantly reminded of why I chose this profession in the first place. As any cat owner will understand, they very much run the household.

3. What is your favourite hobby, activity, or creative outlet?

Travelling is a huge passion of mine, particularly seeking out more unusual experiences. I also dedicate time to animal welfare abroad, working closely with the Greek Cat Welfare Society. This involves travelling across Europe to help with rescue, treatment and rehoming efforts. It is challenging but deeply fulfilling work, and it is incredibly rewarding to be able to support vulnerable animals beyond the UK.

4. Could you outline your work here at Vet’s Klinic?

As Veterinary Director, my role is very broad. I am involved in the overall clinical direction of the practice, mentoring the team, and ensuring that we continue to deliver the highest standard of care. Clinically, my main interests are soft tissue surgery, emergency medicine, and feline medicine in particular. Cats have always been a special interest of mine, and I am passionate about improving their experience in practice and the quality of care they receive.

5. What drew you to this field, and how did you get started?

I genuinely cannot remember a time when I did not want to be a vet. From the age of four, this was my goal, and everything I have done since has been working towards and within this profession. That early calling, combined with hands-on experience at Paignton Zoo and years of dedicated study and practice, shaped the career I am fortunate to have today.

6. What is your favourite part about your job and why?

Without question, it is the people. Both our clients and our incredible team make every day worthwhile. I thrive on challenge, and there is nothing more rewarding than finding a bespoke solution for each individual pet and owner. No two cases are ever the same, and that variety keeps the work endlessly engaging.

7. Which of your professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

Vet’s Klinic itself is my proudest achievement. Building this practice from the ground up, shaping its values, culture and clinical standards, and watching it grow into something genuinely unique and worthwhile has been immensely fulfilling. It represents years of hard work, belief and teamwork.

8. What aspect of Vet’s Klinic makes you proud to work here?

I am deeply passionate about making high-quality pet care accessible to everyone, regardless of circumstance. Vet’s Klinic was founded on that principle, and I am proud that we continue to find ways to remove barriers to veterinary care while maintaining excellent clinical standards. Being able to directly influence and uphold that mission every day is incredibly important to me.

9. What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues?

Our team is truly fabulous. Working shoulder to shoulder with people who share the same commitment to pets and their owners is inspiring. Whether in routine consultations or high-pressure emergencies, everyone pulls together, supports one another and works collaboratively to find the best possible outcomes. That team spirit is something very special.

10. Do you have a favourite song, film or book?

My favourite film is The Shawshank Redemption. It is an incredibly inspiring story about resilience, hope and perseverance — themes that resonate strongly both personally and professionally.

My current favourite book is Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts, a powerful and immersive story of adventure, hardship and human connection. It is a book that stays with you long after you have finished reading.

From our Archives:

Sharna Walker, BSc (Hons), BVetMed, MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon

1. Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Vet’s Klinic Swindon?

I am originally from Swindon, born and bred! I moved around a lot during my studies, spending time in Gloucester when I studied Bio-Veterinary Science at Hartpury University, then several years in London for my veterinary medicine degree. I have also lived in Fleet and Andover, but I decided I’d like to come back to my hometown for my work! This is where my family and friends are, and where I am happiest! I started at Vets Klinic in 2025 after graduating earlier in the year.

2. Do you have any pets? Could you tell us a bit about them?

I have a Miniature Pinscher called Rain, I would probably best describe her as a storm in a teacup, despite her small size, she has a very big character and is always keeping me on my toes! I first bought Rain home when I started my vet degree, she has spent many hours curled up under my desk (or on it, as she prefers to be up high and as involved as possible!) as I studied and riding the underground with me! I also have a rescued Chihuahua cross called Barney. He has a bit of an interesting jaw and often walks around with his tongue poking out, which honestly quite accurately describes his character! He is very sweet and generally just happy to be here, or following Rain around. His favorite snack is whatever you happen to be eating/cooking at that moment!

3. What is your favourite hobby, activity, or creative outlet?

I love the outdoors! I enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking and wild swimming. I try to get out as much as possible and often take road trips, travelling whenever I can. I am a big Nintendo Switch fan and I am currently working my way through Zelda: Breath Of The Wild. I am also currently attempting to learn to crotchet, which is going… well, it’s going! 😂

4. Could you outline your work here at Vet’s Klinic?

I am a GP Veterinary Surgeon, and I enjoy pretty much all aspects of GP life. I have particular clinical interests in dentistry, cardiology and exotic pets. I also love consulting, I am passionate about providing affordable, accessible care, especially coming from a low-income background myself.

5. What drew you to this field, and how did you get started?

It’s simply the classic childhood dream personified for me. I always wanted to be a vet, I took a bit of an alternative route, after coming out of school and going straight into full-time work in an office. In 2015 I took an Access to HE course, alongside my mother who wanted a career change, I studied science and maths and then went to Hartpury University to study Bio-Veterinary Science, which was largely based around veterinary therapies and disease research. I was lucky enough to graduate from Hartpury alongside my mother, who studied animal behaviour and welfare. I then joined the Royal Veterinary College in London to study Veterinary Medicine after taking a gap year where I worked as a veterinary assistant and then spent some time in South Africa, shadowing wildlife vets. I continued to work part time as a veterinary assistant and receptionist alongside vet school, which has given me a great insight into how valuable our nurses and support staff really are.

6. What is your favourite part about your job and why?

It is still early days for me and honestly, I love getting up and coming to work in the morning, which I feel very privileged to say. I am quite simply living out my dream career. I think what really brings me joy, is making a difference to peoples lives. If I can put a client’s mind at ease, or solve a problem for a pet and they leave my consult room happier and healthier, I go home with a smile.

7. Which of your professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

Starting as a new graduate vet is quite daunting. I have been around clinical practice for a long time, but in a support role capacity. It has been a big change now being a veterinary surgeon, with a lot more responsibility and the ability to diagnose/treat patients. I am proud of how I have been meeting this new challenge, I am working on my VetGDP, the course all new graduates must complete within their first 18 months and I have a lot of cases I can put forward for this and the skills I am developing. I feel that I am growing every day. I am looking forward to pursuing my clinical interests in the future, and getting to grips with being a good, reliable GP vet. I aspire to be a vet my team are glad to work alongside and a face that clients are pleased to see when they come into the clinic.

8. What aspect of the Vet’s Klinic makes you proud to work here?

The team. 100%. The team at Vets Klinic are incredibly supportive. Especially from the perspective of a newly graduated vet, the team is incredibly knowledgeable and its a fantastic place to be starting my career. We work long hours and some days are tough, there is always someone to lend a hand or an ear and that is very valuable. Also, there is a fairy here who makes great snacks appear at tea time👀

9. What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues?

I work with some seriously smart people! Its a fantastic atmosphere to bounce ideas around. And again, everyone is very kind and supportive, we all help each other out.

10.Do you have a favourite song? Movie?

I couldn’t pick a favourite song, I listen to such a wide range of music, from country to metal and it changes from day to day! But I will say that my favourite artist is Taylor Swift, I was lucky enough to secure tickets to the Eras Tour in 2024 and I am a diehard Swiftie✨

Favourite movie – Legally Blonde. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that your dreams are impossible. They aren’t ♥️

Rebecca Davy, RVN, Veterinary Nurse

1. Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Vet’s Klinic Swindon?

I’m originally from Hampshire, I then moved to Devon for 10 years where I did my Veterinary training, I then moved to Wiltshire after meeting my now husband. I worked in a few local practices locuming and the opportunity came up to work at Vets Klinic with Joe Inglis when he first set it up. I couldn’t pass on such a great opportunity and now here I am 13 years later still working for the company

2. Do you have any pets? Could you tell us a bit about them?

We have a gorgeous black labrador Muddy who has just turned 12 years old, he’s my shadow and is generally by my side. We have 2 rescue cats called Flash and Chilli who we adore. We also have the very handsome Rufus, a Dartmoor pony who my daughter rides and we help look after

3. What is your favourite hobby, activity, or creative outlet?

I’ve always been very active and loved walking, last year I did an ultra challenge and walked 60km along the Jurassic coast in 1 day, that was tough! . When I turned 40 I did my first Triathlon, then got the bug! I’ve now done too many to count. I’m certainly not the fittest or the fastest however I believe it’s about the taking part and the enjoyment/achievement. I am now part of a running and Triathlon club which is great.

I love spending time with my family and all the animals, especially up at the yard, Muddy absolutely loves comes on a ride with us at the weekend enjoying the Wiltshire countryside

4. Could you outline your work here at Vet’s Klinic?

I’ve had my fair share of roles at Vets Klinic, I started as Head Nurse, then once my daughter was born I stepped back from this role as I became part time, I took on a health and safety role for a time too.

Now I am in charge of all the insurance for the Klinic. Everyone thinks I’m mad as most people hate insurance but I love it! and the role gives me flexibility for my young family. I also nurse most Thursdays and generally you’ll find me in the consult rooms chatting to clients and helping lots of animals (and feeding lots of treats to make all our visits a positive experience)

I am also part of the health plan team and help facilitate our 2000+ patients on the plan get their flea and wormer delivered to their door

5. What drew you to this field, and how did you get started?

I’ve always loved animals, we had 3 dogs, guinea-pigs and chickens when I was growing up and I’d often be found playing with them in the garden. From a young age I wanted to be a Veterinary Nurse and I feel very blessed to have carried out my childhood dream. It wasn’t easy at times but I certainly wasn’t willing to give up.

In 2001 I started an HND in Veterinary Nursing and Management, in 2007 I qualified and the rest is history

6. What is your favourite part about your job and why?

I genuinely love helping the animals and people, whether it’s our clients or the rest of the team. Generally no day is the same as I have lots of different responsibilities

7. Which of your professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

Qualifying has to be the main one, however I do love helping with the younger nurses and seeing them grow and helping them along the way with their training

8. What aspect of the Vet’s Klinic makes you proud to work here?

Over the years there’s been a fair amount of staff come and go like with all businesses however I do feel although Vet’s Klinic is almost always busy we have the best team and team spirit and get on with the job in hand. Everyone is happy to help out when needed.

I also love at Vet’s Klinic, our philosophy of being open and transparent. Clients like they can log into their account and see where their animal is with their procedure. All clinical notes are available to read at their own convenience and the glass fronted prep room is pretty cool too

9. What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues?

The team spirit is definitely the best part, we have great chats and banter but we’ll always crack on with the job in hand to help offer a great affordable service to our clients and patients. If any staff bake for the team they definitely get brownie points, we all love cake!

10.Do you have a favourite song? Movie?

I just love music, especially listening to music in the car and singing along with the children.

That’s a tricky question about a favourite movie, If I had to pick it would have to be Top Gun and Mavrick I’m a bit of a aviation geek

Dimitra Batzaka, MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon

1. Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Vet’s Klinic Swindon?
I grew up in Greece and studied Veterinary Medicine at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. After moving to the UK three years ago, I joined Vet’s Klinic six months back. The clinic’s high case load, commitment to affordable care and supportive culture felt like the perfect place to sharpen both my surgical and medical skills.

2. Do you have any pets?
Sadly, no four-legged companions in the UK just yet, but back home I have a wonderful mixed-breed dog named Lara. Here, my faithful flat-mate is a five-year-old goldfish—small in stature but big on personality!

3. Favourite hobby or creative outlet?
Baking is my happy place—I love turning stress into cake and then bribing friends with the results. When I’m not covered in flour, you’ll find me kick-boxing or practising Brazilian jiu-jitsu; nothing clears a vet’s mind like politely choking someone (with consent, of course).

4. What does your work at Vet’s Klinic involve?
I’m a general practitioner with a growing focus on surgery, currently studying for a postgraduate certificate in small-animal surgery. Consultations are just as rewarding: they let me connect with clients, reassure anxious owners and, most importantly, fuss over their pets.

5. What drew you to veterinary medicine?
As a child I “operated” on every teddy bear in sight—needle, thread and an over-active imagination left them looking… unique. Those early experiments cemented a lifelong goal: become a real vet (with slightly tidier stitching).

6. Favourite part of the job—why?
Being an animal’s voice. They can’t tell us what hurts, but we can listen, investigate and make them feel better. On the best days—and there are many—I catch myself thinking I’ve got the greatest job in the world.

7. Professional accomplishments you’re most proud of?
Uprooting to a new country and thriving here feels huge. In just a few months at Vet’s Klinic I’ve grown clinically and embarked on my surgical certificate—something I’d never have imagined three years ago.

8. What makes you proud to work at Vet’s Klinic?
The team. We spend long hours together, and the clinic’s culture of friendliness, expertise and genuine support means I can rely on every colleague—and they on me.

9. What do you enjoy most about your colleagues?
They’ll always step forward to help, whether it’s a tricky case or a terrible joke. Laughter in theatre, advice in the prep room and friendships after hours make the workplace feel like home.

10. Favourite song or movie?
Musically, I lean toward soft-rock and indie—“Of Monsters and Men” are constant playlist residents. Film-wise, give me a good mystery: I never tire of the modern Agatha Christie adaptations.

Zoe Chapman SVN, Student Veterinary Nurse

Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Vet’s Klinic Swindon? / What drew you to this field, and how did you get started? I’m proud to say I grew up in Highworth, a small town just outside of Swindon. I always loved animals and have had cats as part of the family my whole life. Growing up, I would be the child looking after all the toy animals (toy stethoscope and all), dreaming of becoming a Vet. I had my first rabbit when I was 12-years-old and they’ve been my favourite animal ever since.

Despite initially going into sports, and after my first full time summer in pet retail, I knew animals were my true passion. Since then, I have been fortunate to experience a variety of animal related roles, including zoo keeper and farm work. Looking after animals just felt right, but would find myself gravitating towards caring for the ill and injured animals wherever possible. When I was younger, I didn’t occur to me that Veterinary Nursing existed until researching university courses. At the time, I opted to achieve my BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare at Hartpury University. About 5 years ago, I was fortunate to obtain a position as an Auxiliary Nurse in my previous practice. It was performing this role where I knew I wanted to continue in the Veterinary as a Nurse. Whilst looking for an Auxiliary Nursing role closer to home, I came across Vet’s Klinic, where it was indicated they were a training practice, helping me to achieve my ultimate job.

After caring for rabbits, alongside my experience working with zoo and farm animals, I hope to be an Exotics Veterinary Nurse in the future.

Do you have any pets? Could you tell us a bit about them? I do indeed! I currently own two cats, four rabbits and a chinchilla. Figaro and Bruce (both domestic short hairs) are brothers who have been in the family for the last 7 years. Although they spend most of their time asleep, Figaro has learnt to ‘High Five’ and ‘Give Paw’ and Bruce isn’t the smartest of cats, is incredibly affectionate.

I am very fortunate that all my rabbits (Scrump, Han, Chewie and Wicket) have all bonded well and live together. Scrump (4-year-old Mini Lop) was born with only 3 feet. Han and Chewie (4-year-old Netherland Dwarf Cross) were unexpected arrivals after rescue their mum (Stitch). Stitch gave birth 2 days being rescued, and the pair are the definition of ‘double trouble’ (it’s a good thing they’re cute!). Wicket (Harlequin Cross) joined the family 2 years ago, a stray who I intended to foster, but after attempts to find his owner were unsuccessful, ended up staying forever. I rescued Cookie (6-year-old chinchilla) when she was about 9-months-old and has made the most unlikely of friendships with Bruce.

What is your favourite hobby, activity, or creative outlet? When I’m not working or spending time with my own animals, I spend a lot of my spare time with my family. I also enjoy building Lego, painting miniatures and have recently started to teach myself digital artwork.

Could you outline your work here at Vet’s Klinic? Being a Student Veterinary Nurse, you are involved with every area of the practice. In the first year, I was involved with reception duties (including client communications and assisting with dispensing medications), learning basic nursing care (such as placing cannulas, taking blood samples), learning legalisation and infection control. Being as second year student in the practice, I have been more involved with preparing patients for surgery, anaesthetic procedures, scrubbing in to assist with theatre, taking x-rays, in-patient care, nurse consultations, emergency care and so much more. All of these skills are vital during a day at the practice. One minute you could be assisting for a consultation, the next, recovering a patient, then treating an emergency. Although shifts are allocated, the day can change in an instant, so you must be prepared for anything.

What is your favourite part about your job and why? For me, it is difficult to pinpoint one favourite part of my role. Anyone who knows me can tell you that whenever rabbits or other exotic animals are in the practice, I am always there. However, I also enjoy being involved with the Lab. Since being in Veterinary, I have always been curious about how certain health conditions and diseases are caused. I enjoy getting involved with process, and the hands-on experience with laboratory analysis has helped me to gain a better understanding of why specific tests are performed, whilst keeper my inner scientist happy too. There’s nothing more satisfying than creating the perfect blood smear!

Which of your professional accomplishments are you most proud of? When I first joined the Veterinary Nursing course, I was most apprehensive to be involved with general anaesthetics. Even though the Veterinary Nurse are the acting hands of the Veterinary Surgeon, the thought of being responsible for a pet’s life during a surgical procedure used to terrify me. However, since being on the Veterinary Nursing Course, I have been able to confidently and competently take the lead in monitoring general anaesthesia. It’s part of the role I never thought I’d be able to understand, let alone perform, and has shown great professional (and personal) growth.

What aspect of the Vet’s Klinic makes you proud to work here? Despite being a Student Veterinary Nurse, I feel like I’ve been able to make a positive impact to many pets (and their owners). I’m a proud of all my progress and the professional developments I now get to reflect on. I’m proud to be able to learn alongside such a diverse community (both colleagues and clients). to have the opportunity to put my heart into everything I do. Whether you have good days, stressful days, exam stress etc., you always know there’s someone to speak to who can help you back on your feet.

What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues? I enjoy the way I have been challenged to become the most confident version of myself. If it wasn’t for my clinical coach, I wouldn’t be anywhere near the position I find myself in right now. In a few short months, I will be (hopefully) a Qualified/ Registered Veterinary Nurse, and I couldn’t not have completed the course without the Team’s support and guidance. It helps that, whenever I feel confused or need help, due to the diversity of the Team’s interest and specialties (Vets and Nurses alike), there’s always someone who is willing to teach you something new.

Do you have a favourite song? Movie? My favourite song is ‘For the Dancing and the Dreaming’ from the second How to Train Your Dragon Movie (both the song and the franchise are very special to me). When it comes down to movies, if it’s nerdy, I love it. Star Wars, Disney (especially Beauty and the Beast), Harry Potter, Sonic you name it!

Maider Murugarren RCVS, Veterinary Surgeon

Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Vet’s Klinic Swindon? I grew up in Pamplona, Spain. I was attracted to Vet’s Klinic by its ethic of transparency and competitive prices. I wanted to be part of an independent veterinary practices that could offer good quality services at a more affordable price.

Do you have any pets? Could you tell us a bit about them? I have two dogs, Toni and Jenna, they are both Spanish rescues that look like long legged Jack Russels, we are inseparable, they come with me everywhere. I also have two horses, Ignis and Koa. I love spending time with them in my free time, going for a walk with the dogs and training and riding the horses.

What is your favourite hobby, activity, or creative outlet? Horse riding and dog walking really, my whole life revolves around animals!

Could you outline your work here at Vet’s Klinic? My work at Vet’s Klinic has been centered in developing an Advanced Surgical service to be able to provide a quality and affordable service to animals that need a more advanced soft tissue or orthopaedic surgery.

What drew you to this field, and how did you get started? I realised that I wanted to be a surgeon when I was volunteering at an animal rescue and rehabilitation centre. We managed to fix the broken femur of a starling. That was the moment I realised I wanted to be able to help and fix animals through surgery,

What is your favourite part about your job and why? My favorite part of my job is seeing the dogs and the cats doing well after their surgeries, being back to having a full life, running on their fixed legs, etc.

Which of your professional accomplishments are you most proud of? I am proud of each dog and cat that I can help and every story of success is an accomplishment for me.

What aspect of the Vet’s Klinic makes you proud to work here? The competitive prices that Vet’s Klinic offers are one of the key things that make me so proud as I feel I can help more dogs and cats. Being able to help as many pets that need a surgery as possible with affordable prices is very important to me.

What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues? I have a great surgical team at Vet’s Klinic, the nurses always go above and beyond to provide the best care for every patient. It is always great to work beside them and making each surgery the best as possible.

Do you have a favourite song? Movie? I don’t really have a favorite song, or movie. I just enjoy listening to a variety of music while I am in theatre. Music helps me focus.

Rachel Willis, Veterinary Nurse

Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Vet’s Klinic Swindon? I grew up in Mid Wales. Moved to Wiltshire seven years ago. Was a locum Nurse for a while and very much enjoyed locuming at Vet’s Klinic so was delighted to be asked if I would become a permanent member of the team.

Do you have any pets? Could you tell us a bit about them? I have a Standard dachshund called Patrick. He is 6 years old. His favourite things are walks in the forest, chasing squirrels, being fed all sorts by my three-year-old son, and barking at anyone who walks past our house. I also have a Gypsy cob called Floyd.

What is your favourite hobby, activity, or creative outlet? I enjoy long walks, yoga & horse riding.

Could you outline your work here at Vet’s Klinic? I am a part time veterinary nurse here at Vet’s Klinic. I do a mix of prep, theatre, and ward shifts.

What drew you to this field, and how did you get started? Following a short career as a horse riding instructor/yard manager I decided that I wanted to get into the veterinary industry. I started as a receptionist/ACA in a mixed practice in North Wales over 15 years ago. I was lucky enough to then gain a training position at a different practice in Mid Wales, nearer to where I lived at the time.

What is your favourite part about your job and why? I enjoy being with and looking after animals all day. It’s great to be around like minded people and working as part of a team.

Which of your professional accomplishments are you most proud of? I feel my biggest accomplishment has been becoming a much more confident person from being in the veterinary industry.

What aspect of the Vet’s Klinic makes you proud to work here? Vet’s Klinic have a great team. The whole team are passionate, professional, and caring with a high standard of patient care.

What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues? Everyone helps each other, are approachable and helpful.

Do you have a favourite song? Movie? Favourite song – For crying out loud-Meatloaf; Favourite film – ‘Step brothers’

Our Klinics

About us

Meet Our Veterinary Director: Adrian Caunter

From our Archives:

Sharna Walker, BSc (Hons), BVetMed, MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon

Rebecca Davy, RVN, Veterinary Nurse

Dimitra Batzaka, MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon

Zoe Chapman SVN, Student Veterinary Nurse

Maider Murugarren RCVS, Veterinary Surgeon

Rachel Willis, Veterinary Nurse

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