Learn About
Since 1972, Eltham Veterinary Practice has been the backbone of quality veterinary care in Eltham. Drs Steve Pryor and Gus Braniff have continued building the practice into a vibrant, friendly practice. We operate from a brand-new, purpose-built Hospital on the Corner of Main Road and Mt Pleasant Road in Eltham. The fully computerised practice is equipped with modern medical equipment such as an in-house pathology system, the latest x-ray equipment, endoscopes, ultrasound and advanced anaesthetics to ensure the best care for your pet.
Our hospital contains all the things you’d expect in a modern day veterinary practice. This means we have many elaborate pieces of equipment. Our hospital is equipped to perform most types of surgery with modern anaesthetic machines, cardiac and respiratory monitors, patient warmers and critical care monitors. Our surgery can handle any sized pet (cat or dog), and our anaesthetics are very similar to an operating theatre in a human hospital.
Many different types of operations are performed by our veterinarians, such as de-sexing, exploratory surgery, caesareans, tumour and lump removals, wound stitch-ups, intestinal obstructions, knee reconstructions (cruciate repairs) and dentistry to name a few.
It is normal for our veterinarians and nurses to scrub up, wear surgical gowns and safety protection as well as using “pet size” instruments for any procedure. The surgical table is heated for the comfort and wellness of our patients who are continually monitored. A trained veterinary nurse assists the veterinarian and monitors the patient’s anaesthetic throughout the procedure.
Because we don’t provide 24 hour patient care, we offer a referral service to one of two 24 hour emergency clinics, where patient can be closely monitored throughout the night (see After hours – Emergency for more information). We have a close association with several specialists and would refer you and your pet to the appropriate medical or surgical specialist if required, generally for a more specific type of service.
Take a Virtual Tour of Our Practice
This interactive tour allows you to explore our practice at your own pace. Check out our reception area, consult rooms and operating theatre. Also be sure to check out the practice surroundings.
Our Veterinarians
Dr. Steve Pryor
Veterinarian
Dr. Steve's Bio
Steve (pictured here with Mack) graduated from the University of Melbourne Veterinary School in 1985. His first year out of vet school was spent in a mixed practice in Casterton in the Western District of Victoria, and this was followed by a year in Deniliquin, in the Riverina. From there he moved to Murwillumbah on the far north NSW Coast, initially to locum for a few months, but ended up staying 10 years!
During his years in Murwillumbah, Steve worked initially as a mixed practice vet, but became increasingly small animal oriented with a strong interest in surgery, and emergency medicine.
Towards the end of his stay in Murwillumbah, Steve started studying for his membership examination of the Australian College of Veterinary Surgeons, initially under the tutelage of Dr Geoff Robbins. He attained his membership in 1999, 6 months after moving back to Melbourne.
Since moving to Melbourne in late 1998, Steve has worked solely in small animal practice, first doing locums then settling at Eltham. For the last 16 years he has been at Eltham Veterinary Practice (Clinic), having succeeded Dr Daryl Hoffmann.
His professional qualifications and post-graduate training include:
- Bachelor of Veterinary Science Univ Melb 1985
- Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
- Membership of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists in Small Animal Surgery 1999: (Surgery).
He speaks to classes at several local schools as part of the AVA Petpep childrens education program on pets in society. He has hosted local client nights on Animal Behaviour issues and Senior Pet Preventative Health with Dr Robert Holmes as guest speaker. He is a member of the AVA, the Australian Small Animal Veterinary Association, the AVPMA, the AVBA, of which he is a board member , Vetcentric (also an advisory board member), the Victorian branch of the AVA, and Melbourne Metropolitan Practitioners Branch of the AVA.
His aim at Eltham Veterinary Practice is to provide high quality compassionate care for family pets, as well as the most up to date and optimal choices for their health. He consults closely with specialists in all aspects of veterinary medicine and surgery. Steve has a particular interest in surgery, including TTO surgery for cruciate ligament rupture in larger dogs, cancer care, eye and skin diseases, and he specialises in British Bulldogs as he owns 2.
Steve, his wife Clare, and 2 sons have Bulldogs Martha and Mack, and a cat Reg. In his spare time you might find Steve out on the golf course, watching his sons’ numerous sporting events, out for dinner, or at the footy watching the Bombers.
Dr. Gus Braniff
Veterinarian
Dr. Gus' Bio
Dr. Gus Braniff joined the practice in 2010, bringing a wealth of experience from his numerous previous roles.
Gus started his veterinary career working with Dr Andrew Turner (now an eye specialist) at Research. His roles outside of private practice have included:
Clinical Nutrition Expert for a global pet nutrition firm
Senior technical support and market development role for an Australasian animal health company
Senior veterinary surgeon for a network of corporately owned practices.
Living locally, Gus and Lauren have 2 children, 3 dogs, 6 horses, 7 cats, chickens, ducks, guinea pigs and rabbits. He is now enjoying a shorter drive to work and the opportunity to work once more with pet owners and their family pets at Eltham Veterinary Practice.
Dr. Melanie Roads
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Mel's Bio
Dr Melanie Roads joined our veterinary team in early 2014 after graduating with Honours from the University of Melbourne in December 2013, and having a great holiday in Africa and the UK in between.
Melanie has always had a passion for animal care and worked as a veterinary nurse for 6 years during her studies.
Melanie most enjoys dog and cat medicine and surgery, but loves working with all creatures great and small.
Outside of work Melanie enjoys hiking, camping, cooking and spending time with her pets – two lovable Labradors ‘Oliver’ and ‘Tilly’ and her feline fluff ball ‘Ayla’.
Melanie is always delighted to meet people and their beloved pets.
Dr. Eden Clark
Associate Veterinarian
Dr Eden's Bio
Eden is a Diamond Creek girl who knows and loves the Eltham area. Eden desired to become a vet from a very young age and spent much of her childhood caring for wildlife, including housing bees overnight in homemade enclosures and feeding them sugar syrup until they were recuperated! It was her strong compassion that drove her desire to become a veterinarian.
After 6 years of study, Eden graduated from the University of Melbourne with First Class Honours in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. She has been lucky enough to spend the last 3 months travelling abroad through Central and South America with her partner before joining our team.
While travelling has been an unforgettable adventure, there is no place like home. In her spare time Eden loves going camping along the coast, having brunch with friends and spending time with her very mischievous Jack Russell named Archie! She’s looking forward to meeting new clients and their furry companions in the local community and hopes to have a long and fulfilling career in veterinary medicine.
Our Nurses and Support Team
Amanda
Head Veterinary Nurse
Amanda's Bio
Amanda, pictured here with her dogs Mya and Dakota, has been working at Eltham Veterinary Practice since 2006. She has been the Head Veterinary Nurse now for a few years, having finished her Certificate 4 in Veterinary Nursing at Box Hill Tafe.
Amanda has had a big year, becoming married to long time partner Brenton and building a house in Kinglake. You need a house on 8acres when you have three horses, three dogs and a cat! Her three stunning horses; Nixi, Cookie and Jordy, are all Australian Quarter Horses.
Amanda’s interests range from horse riding with her three horses to being a fanatical Richmond Football Club supporter.
Amanda loves many aspects of her job, and in particular she says: ‘you can’t beat the satisfaction of seeing a pet back to health and reunited with its owners after a long hospital stay for a severe illness’. She also loves getting to know all our clients and pets, and enjoys giving professional advice that will improve pets lives.
Hannah
Veterinary Nurse
Hannah's Bio
We first met Hannah in 2005 when she came and did year 10 work experience with us. She was impressive then, and when she came to us about a job recently, we were equally impressed. In the interim, Hannah finished her year 12 certificate with flying colours, and went on to study at University. After completing a four year Bachelor of Environmental Science degree, Hannah thought she would soon find her ideal work. Three years down the track, and no closer to workplace satisfaction, she decided to see if her early instincts were actually right. The staff at Eltham Veterinary Practice will testify that Hannah really appears to have found her niche and so will all the pets she takes care of.
When she’s not caring for pets, you can find Hannah at the gym or watching a good movie and if the “Tiges” have a win, you can be sure she will have a big smile on her face on a Monday.
Tara
Veterinary Nurse
Tara's Bio
Tara has come to us after a 4 year stint at David Jones, bringing a finely honed appreciation for quality customer service. Tara’s passion for animals can be seen by her career switch, turning her back on a management role to come and work for us.
Her gorgeous French Bulldog George is well known around the practice and loved by all!
Tara enjoys talking to owners and pet lovers about animal care and health issues, and loves to hear all those weird and funny stories that pets feature in from time to time.
When she’s not at work, Tara can be found going to the beach, walking or going out with friends, and she also loves a good horror movie.
Karly
Veterinary Nurse
Karly's Bio
Karly joined Eltham Veterinary Practice in October 2015 and has quickly settled into the role of receptionist. With 7 years experience working in retail as a department manager at Toys R Us at Chadstone she is no stranger to the customer service industry.
She has always had an interest in studying animal behaviour and working in the animal industry. She has successfully completed a Bachelor of Science at Monash University majoring in Zoology.
She currently has five pets, Tom the Beaglier (pictured) and Mily a Maltese Shitzu as well as 3 cats Tig, Kitty and Molly.
In her spare time Karly plays mixed Basketball with a local team and will often be found at the MCG during the footy season cheering on the Melbourne Demons.
Reneé
Reception
Reneé's Bio
Renee joined the team back in October 2013 as our receptionist but when the position for Office Manager became available in January 2016 it was an obvious transition into the new role for Renee as she is highly organised with great attention to detail. She comes to us from another industry, previously in a role as a personal assistant for 5 years locally in Eltham for an electrical contractor; and she is loving the change to the animal industry.
She’s our resident crazy cat lover with her two purrfect kitties, 20yo Princess Lilly and her boy with “cattitude” Bryan! Renee’s pup nephew Jasper is featured in her staff photo as her cats were being less than cooperative on the day.
Outside of work Renee spends her time with friends, family and long-time partner Jake. She enjoys Mexican food, group gym sessions, going to the movies and she’s a bit of a TV series fanatic! Renee will spend her very last dollar on live music, having seen an impressive 70+ shows and like most females is a shopaholic! Renee would also say she has the travel bug, having travelled America 3 times most recently in October 2016 – with Europe in her sights for next year!
Since starting at Eltham Vet Rene’e has made a delightful impression on clients and staff alike, as her cheerful personality has a way of brightening your day! If you have a pet insurance query or you’re just after a chat pop into the practice!
Aimee
Reception
Aimee's Bio
Aimee joined the team in March 2017. Having over eight years experience working in customer service, Aimee has come from being receptionist in Collingwood – where her favourite activity was dog spotting through the window and befriending the local staffies! It’s safe to say she has found her new home with us an easy one to settle into!
Having owned many different animals in the past, she is currently mum to Jax (pictured with her), who came into the family after being abandoned when he was a few months old.
When she’s not answering your questions or saying hello to your furry friends, she can be found baking in kitchen, relaxing with friends and family or going camping around Victoria.
With a passion for writing, Aimee completed a Bachelor of Journalism which she will be putting to good use on our blog and Facebook page.
We’re excited to welcome Aimee to the team and she can’t wait to meet you all!
Emily
Reception
Emily's Bio
Emily joined our team in May of 2017. It’s not the first time Emily has been part of our team though! Back in 2014 Emily worked with us as part of her weekly placement while completing certificate 3 in companion animal studies during year 12.
Since then Emily has been studying a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Economics. She has also been working locally at the Bolton Street Pet Store for the past 2 years, so some of you may recognise her friendly face!
Emily enjoys travel, with Bali being her favourite destination and in her spare time she loves going to the beach and catching up on her favourite Netflix shows.
She’s the proud pooch mother of her Weimaraner named Hugo and pictured below is Kikki the Vizsla, she also has a sassy kitty named Bella!
Be sure to say ‘Hi!’ Emily at your next appointment, we’re sure that her bubbly nature will brighten your visit to Eltham Vet.
Deb
Reception
Deb's Bio
Deb has been with us on and off since 2004, whilst having two boys since then.
Deb has passed her love of travel onto her boys and they love to go on family trips whenever possible – Disneyland was a big hit!
She is a huge animal lover and our dedicate cat lady – having 2 cats that are almost 16 years old! They were strays who were abandoned at only 3 weeks of age, but have been spoilt ever since.
Since then, the cats have been joined by 2 guinea pigs and a Pomeranian cross Shih Tzu named Darcy (pictured above!).
On the weekends Deb can be found barracking for her beloved Collingwood and in the off season, pottering in the garden…unless it’s too hot which then means shes in front of the aircon with a good book.
Romme
Part-Time Reception
Romme's Bio
Introducing the newest member of the Eltham Vet team, Romme!
Romme has joined us a part-time receptionist, spending the remainder of her week at Monash Uni studying first year Science. She also works at the Riddik Café in lower Templestowe and the Kew Golf Club.
With a love for travel, Romme has seen Japan and Peru and last year spent extensive time in South East Asia travelling to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. She is now planning her next trip to Central America, with plans to visit Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Panama.
In her spare time Romme likes catch up with friends, read and watch her favourite Netflix shows.
The gorgeous little Chihuahua pictured below is her 4 year old named Morris and she also has a lovely 7 year old Ragdoll cat named Harley.
Be sure to give Romme a warm welcome the next time you’re in the practice.
Annette
Groomer
Annette's Bio
Annette has 7 years’ experience within the grooming industry. Having started her career working for a mobile company, Annette has transitioned into the veterinary industry and absolutely loves it. She has 2 dogs of her own, 9yr old Bella and 10mth old Lenny.
Animals have always been a big part of Annette’s life as she has had many growing up. With dogs being her greatest love, grooming has always been Annette’s passion
Annette specialises in a variety of breed clips, strip outs of thicker coated breeds (ie: Samoyeds) and puppy styles. Her biggest pleasure is seeing the beautiful makeovers of her doggy clients and having a happy and satisfied owner.
Siggy
Groomer
Siggy's Bio
We Believe
All pets should enjoy healthy and happy lives.
We Understand
That pet owners want to be informed and involved in their pet’s health care decisions.
We Also Believe
That using our services should be easy and convenient for pet owners.