Anna Smillie is the latest new graduate to join our Invercargill clinic as a mixed animal vet, looking after our equine and small animal clients.

Whilst she was born and raised in urban Dunedin, she spent all the time she could out in the paddocks riding horses.

Anna originally studied at Otago University and gained a BSc in Microbiology, before deciding to change direction and apply for vet school. She has since spent the last 5 years studying Veterinary Science at Massey University; graduating in 2022.

Her background has proven to be very useful in her new role, with her microbiology knowledge helping her out when dealing with infectious diseases and interpreting samples under the microscope!

So, what does she love most about being a vet?

“I enjoy the variety of the job and working with different species, as well as getting to know clients.

“Every aspect of veterinary medicine is pretty exciting, but I am particularly interested in pathology (disease processes) and have always had an interest in nutrition. I'm also enjoying advancing my surgical skills.”

After several years in the north island, Anna is glad to be “home”, in familiar territory.

“I have a lot of family connections in the south, and clients have also been very welcoming. I am, however, still re-acclimating to the southern weather!”

Outside of work, Anna enjoys spending time with friends and family, cooking and baking, watching films and reading. She also recently took up swimming and running and would love to get back into horse riding one day!