Meet the Team
Veterinarians
About Drew
Drew Aitken initially qualified from the University of Cape Town with a MSc in Marine Biology. He contributed to research on tiger sharks and whale sharks and authored a field guide on the Sardine Run off the east coast of South Africa. In 2004 he decided to follow his lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian and qualified from Onderstepoort at the University of Pretoria, South Africa in 2009. Although Drew initially did some large animal and wildlife work, he has now worked in small animal practice for fifteen years. He has a special interest in surgery and ophthalmology and is currently completing his Post Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery.
Why did you become a vet?
“I’ve always had an interest in general biology, animals and medicine and becoming a veterinarian seemed the perfect way to merge my interests. I have always felt very privileged for the opportunity to become a veterinarian and thoroughly enjoy working in the profession”
About Lise
Lise Aitken qualified from Onderstepoort at the University of Pretoria, South Africa in 2011. She has worked in small animal practice for 13 years. Her early years were spent at a small animal and exotic hospital where she developed a special interest in ultrasound and medicine. Lise is currently completing her Post Graduate Certificate in Cardiology.
Why did you become a vet?
“I can clearly remember the day I decided that I wanted to become a vet. I went to a local clinic to get work experience and the clinic had a nine-week-old Husky puppy that had tetanus. When I started going to the clinic the puppy could not move, his limbs were stretched tight, he could not open his mouth and he couldn’t even lift his head. He was lying just on his side, completely helpless and I had to help him eat and keep him clean. He made a miraculous recovery and at the end of that week he was running stiff legged out of the practice wagging his little tail. At that moment I realised that I want to help animals and I have never regretted it.
About Emily
Having wanted to be a vet for as long as I can remember, I qualified from Liverpool University in 2020 with a degree in conservation medicine, as well as in veterinary medicine. I’ve been on the Wirral since and I absolutely love it here. When I’m not at work, I’m usually exploring the countryside with my collie cross rescue, River, and our cocker spaniel, Rosie. I also love getting out on my bike, or relaxing with a good book, a coffee, and a sleepy dog on my lap!
I enjoy all aspects of working as a vet, from those first vaccinations to the more complicated and poorly cases, but I do especially enjoy getting to know all our lovely clients and patients. How lucky are we to get to spend our days with such gorgeous animals?! I’m particularly interested in medicine and am currently working towards a certificate in this area, which will help me to provide the best care possible for your pets.
What Emily did not say about herself…
Emily is one of those rare vets that have an incredible knowledge base at the tip of her fingers. She has a calm and comforting nature that patients and clients appreciate. She especially has a soft spot for elderly patients and clients, and always advocates for the anxious patient.
Emily is a gem, and we are so thankful for her lovely nature and honesty. She builds up the team and always has some knowledge and wisdom up her sleeve.
About Maria
I grew up in Ohio in the USA and moved to the UK in 2000. I originally trained as a geneticist but swapped my microscope for a stethoscope in 2003 and never looked back. After 17 years in practice, I still enjoy my job (almost!) every day. The best part of being a vet is getting to know my clients and seeing the love they have for their pets. I have a special interest in cats and I completed my post graduate certificate in feline practice in 2019. Outside of work, I can usually be found on the beach with my two silly spaniels or swimming in the sea, no matter what the weather.
What Maria did not say about herself…
Maria has an inspiring and joyful nature. She is always positive and sees the bright side of everything. Maria has a wealth of experience and marvellous knowledge. We love having Maria on the team and her nurturing nature extends to our clients, patients and colleagues.
Her optimism is infectious, and one can’t help but be happy when Maria is around.
Family Run Veterinary Practice
Whiskered Wellness
Making petcare affordable
Preventative health care plans for your dog, cat or rabbit.
Dogs
from £19.50
Per Month
Cats
£18
Per Month
Opening Hours
Mon-Friday 8:30am – 6:00pm
Saturday 08:30 – 12:00pm
Sunday & Bank Holidays Closed
Out of Hours Emergency?
Call our out of hours partner on:
01244 853823