CareVets Johnsonville

Justin graduated from Kansas State University in 2012 and began his career in small-animal practice in Ottawa, Ontario, before moving to New Zealand to take on a role with MPI. With a background in biosecurity and emergency management, he has worked across a wide range of situations—from disease outbreaks to unusual cases—before returning to companion-animal practice, where his patients shed far more fur than paperwork.

Outside of work, Justin enjoys tinkering with anything that needs fixing, supporting his local toy library, and creating clever solutions with his 3D printer. He shares his life with his Rottweiler, Iorek, who is equal parts muscle, drool, and very good boy.

Claudia graduated from Otago Polytechnic in 2018 and has worked in veterinary clinics throughout Wellington since then. She joined CareVets in 2023 as Lead Veterinary Nurse and stepped into the Clinic Coordinator role in 2024.

Claudia enjoys supporting both animals and their owners through every high and low — and is well known for giving her patients one (or two) too many treats.

Outside of work, she’s kept on her toes by her energetic Kelpie x Collie, Bowie, who joins her at the clinic each day and makes sure she never misses a good walk.

Faith joined CareVets in July 2024 after earning her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from UCOL Palmerston North. She is passionate about her work and enjoys that every day brings new opportunities to learn and grow.

Outside of the clinic, Faith stays busy caring for her Flemish Giant rabbits, Sven and Juniper, and loves spending time in her garden whenever she can.

Jade graduated from UCOL Manawatū with a Diploma in Veterinary Nursing in 2021 and joined the CareVets team in 2022. In 2025, she stepped into the role of Lead Veterinary Nurse.

Jade has a passion for all things animal-related and loves building bonds with the pets who visit the clinic, while helping their owners feel confident and supported in their care decisions.

Outside of work, Jade enjoys spending time with friends, getting lost in a good book, or relaxing with a movie. At home, she’s happily ruled by her three Ragdoll cats: Atlas, Sol, and Moon.

Melissa joined the CareVets Johnsonville team in October 2023 as a part-time receptionist while completing her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing. After graduating, she transitioned into a full-time veterinary nurse role and has been a valued member of the team ever since.

At home, Melissa is surrounded by her furry crew — three cats, Bobba Fett, Salinki Malinki, and Kinoko, along with her big chocolate Labrador, Moose. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys travelling, listening to good music, and treating herself to her absolute favourite indulgence: Lewis Road Creamery chocolate milk.

Riley joined the CareVets team as a Retail Assistant in 2022 before finishing her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing. Since she became qualified, Riley now works as one of our hard-working Veterinary Nurses. Riley has a Torti at home called Pavlova.

Sydney joined the CareVets Johnsonville team in August 2025 as a Receptionist and Junior Veterinary Nurse. With a background in Animal Science and Wildlife from the United States, along with a Master of Science in Ecology, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the clinic. Sydney has a particular passion for all things scaly and has experience working with exotics as well as in mixed-animal practices.

Outside of the clinic, Sydney spends her time working towards her PhD or getting her hands dirty in the garden at home, alongside her tuxedo cat companions.