Leeds Colton Vets for Pets

David and Elsa are both graduates of the Royal Veterinary College. After gaining experience in London, they relocated to Yorkshire, where David joined Leeds Vets for Pets and Elsa began working at a multidisciplinary veterinary hospital. In late 2015, they took a career break to travel through India, Southeast Asia, and Australasia. Upon returning, they resumed their roles in Leeds and, in November 2017, became partners in Leeds Vets for Pets, opening Leeds Colton Vets for Pets in January 2018 alongside John, Hilary, and Lauren.

David has a passion for client and patient care, with special interests in general and soft tissue surgery, ophthalmology, and BOAS surgery for brachycephalic breeds. Elsa focuses on dermatology and rabbit medicine and particularly enjoys caring for small pets through her work with Pets at Home.

Outside of work, David enjoys sport and regularly participates in team sports, golf, running, cycling, and triathlons. Elsa enjoys pottery, yoga, and spending time with family and friends. They live in Leeds with their two children, their spaniel Sparrow, and their cats—Senior Worm the 3rd of Masseyville and Councillor Maureen Mitten the Street-Cat Kitten.

I graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2001 and began my career working on the Foot and Mouth Epidemic, based in Ripon. I then moved into mixed practice near Sudbury, Suffolk, before travelling the world with my husband, John, working as locum veterinary surgeons. This experience exposed us to a wide variety of clinical cases and environments, including caring for donkeys in Mexico and stray dogs in Thailand—experiences that deepened our appreciation for the high standard of veterinary care in the UK.

We settled in Yorkshire in 2004, drawn by the people and countryside we came to know during the epidemic. I enjoy all aspects of general practice, with a particular interest in complex medical workups and diagnostic challenges. After establishing and growing Leeds Vets for Pets, John and I expanded our practice to East Leeds with the opening of Leeds Colton Vets for Pets, where we now focus on supporting both teams behind the scenes.

I graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2001 and began my veterinary career working on the Foot and Mouth epidemic, based in Ripon. Following that, I returned closer to home, working in mixed practice near Sudbury in Suffolk.

After a year, Hilary and I decided to travel the world, working as locum veterinary surgeons along the way. This experience proved invaluable—not only for the challenging medical and surgical cases we encountered but also for the opportunity to work with animals and people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Caring for donkeys in Mexico and treating stray dogs in Thailand gave us a deep appreciation for the high standard of veterinary care available in the UK.

In 2004, we settled in Yorkshire, drawn by the warmth of the people and the beauty of the countryside, which we came to know well during our time supporting farmers through the Foot and Mouth crisis.

I became a partner at Wakefield Vets for Pets in 2006 and went on to establish Leeds Vets for Pets in 2010. In 2018, Hilary and I launched Colton Vets for Pets with our friends and colleagues, Dave and Elsa. We stepped away from Leeds V4P in 2024 to focus fully on the continued success and growth of Colton.

I enjoy all aspects of general practice, particularly the variety of patients and client relationships it brings. My main passion is surgery, and I completed my Surgical Certificate (Masters) in 2022. If your pet needs an operation—like repairing a broken leg—chances are I’ll be the one performing it.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with our young son, our cat Mikey, and our big, dopey, lovable Italian Spinone, Mabel.

I graduated from UTAD (University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro) in 2016 and began my veterinary career in a small animal practice in my home country, Portugal. Seeking new opportunities and experiences, I moved to England to work in a mixed practice for two years before joining the Vets for Pets team in 2021.

Since then, I've adopted two rabbits—Joey and Oscar—and developed a strong interest in rabbit medicine, along with particular passions for dentistry and endocrinology.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my partner, whether mountain biking, climbing, or working in the garden—often with the bunnies hopping around close by!

I graduated from University College Dublin in 2014 and have been practicing in the UK since 2017. I enjoy all aspects of first opinion veterinary care, with a particular passion for cardiology. I hold a certificate in small animal cardiology and am currently pursuing a higher qualification in the field.

Outside of work, life is full with my partner, our two young children, and our energetic cat Simone—named after Simone Biles for her acrobatic antics around the house. I also compete in powerlifting and have proudly represented Ireland at both European and World Championship levels.

I graduated in 2003 and have always enjoyed the fast pace and variety of first opinion practice. Over the years, I developed a strong interest in skin and ear conditions, which led me to complete a certificate in veterinary dermatology in 2021.

I’m passionate about the diversity of cases we see daily and value the trusted role we play in supporting the bond between pets and their owners. At home, I share life with Pepper, our spirited terrier cross, and Salt, our playful kitten.

I graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2023 and recently returned home to Yorkshire to begin my veterinary career. I share my home with Freddie, my resilient three-legged, one-eyed cat, and Maxi, my energetic blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier—who features in most of the photos on my phone!

Outside of work, I enjoy running, playing tennis, and relaxing with a good film. I'm excited to be part of the team at Colton and look forward to meeting you and your pets.

I graduated from the University of Bristol in 2024 and was thrilled to join the team at Leeds Colton Vets for Pets shortly afterward. Having been involved with the practice for the past six years—initially as a student and now as a veterinary surgeon—it already feels like home. I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated team and to care for the amazing pets and clients we see every day.

Although I don’t currently have any pets, I recently said goodbye to my much-loved dog and look forward to welcoming a new companion into my life soon.

After graduating from the University of Bristol in 2018 with degrees in Bioveterinary Science and Veterinary Nursing, I gained experience in both first opinion and referral practice before joining the Colton team in October 2020. I became Head Nurse in March 2022.

I’m passionate about supporting our student nurses, building relationships with regular patients (especially big dogs and cavies!), and enjoy all aspects of dental care, rabbit husbandry, and radiography. I love being part of a close-knit, forward-thinking team that values continuous learning and high standards of care. I also feel incredibly lucky to work alongside two of my favourite people—my sister Bride on reception, and my best friend Emily, a brilliant RVN.

At home, I have three rabbits—Fable, Bumble, and Wisp (who has three legs)—along with my lovable Labrador-Akita cross, Bailey, and a tiny black cat named Avril. Outside of work, I enjoy foraging, studying mycology, practicing pyrography, singing, and attending gigs.

I’ve been working in the veterinary industry since 2010 and qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2017. I’ve been part of the Colton Vets for Pets team for over five years, during which time I’ve grown immensely as a nurse, thanks to the support of my incredible colleagues.

I particularly enjoy the practical side of nursing and have a strong interest in anaesthesia, which I’m excited to pursue further later this year with a nursing anaesthesia certificate.

At home, I have a Persian cross cat named Ned. Despite his “posh” appearance, he loves rolling around in the grass and constantly needs grooming!

I’ve been working at Colton Vets for Pets since July 2020 as a Student Veterinary Nurse, with plans to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse upon completing my studies at Askham Bryan College. Prior to this, I earned an Advanced Technical Diploma in Equine Management. During my studies, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a veterinary practice and donkey sanctuary in Aruba, which confirmed my passion for veterinary nursing as the career for me.

I’ve always had a love for animals and enjoy meeting a wide variety of pets every day at the practice. Outside of work and studies, I love riding and caring for my horse, as well as walking my cockapoo, Poppy, and my Labrador, Flash.

I’ve been a qualified Registered Veterinary Nurse since 2014, after completing a Foundation Degree in Veterinary Nursing at Askham Bryan College. I enjoy all aspects of my role, with a particular passion for consulting and acting as a clinical coach, where I train and support Student Veterinary Nurses.

Outside of work, I’m a wife and mother to two children, along with a dog, cat, lion-head rabbit, guinea pig, and spur-thighed tortoise. I enjoy spending quality time with my family on days out and love to unwind with a good book.

My love for animals began at a very young age, with our home always filled with fur. I’ve been working in the veterinary industry since 2019, although I started volunteering and gaining experience in my early teens.

I joined Vets for Pets Colton in April 2021 as a Veterinary Care Assistant, and I’m now a Student Veterinary Nurse, loving every moment of my journey. I studied Animal Behaviour and Welfare at both college and university, and had the opportunity to volunteer with African wildlife in South Africa.

At home, I have three rescue animals: Winnie, Chester, and Nitty Nora (who is the star of my picture). Nitty Nora was brought into the practice as a stray with ongoing health issues, but I fell in love and gave her a forever home. It’s been amazing to see her thrive.

What I love most about my job is the variety—no two days are the same—and the privilege of working alongside such an incredible team of vets and nurses. Outside of work, I enjoy adventures in my converted van with my little dog, Winnie. We love lacing up our walking boots and exploring new places together.

I joined the team in November 2021 as a Veterinary Care Assistant and quickly began my training to become a Veterinary Nurse. I passed my final exams in December 2024 — a fantastic early Christmas present! — and officially became a Registered Veterinary Nurse in January 2025.

I have a real passion for the practical side of nursing, particularly in surgery. I’m especially enthusiastic about developing my skills further through CPD, with the goal of specialising in surgical nursing and anaesthesia. I also have a soft spot for exotic animals and am always the first to volunteer when it comes to monitoring anaesthetics for small furries — especially rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits during surgery and recovery.

My background includes a bachelor’s degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, as well as hands-on experience working at a zoo in my hometown in the West Midlands, where I focused on small mammals and exotics.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband — whether we’re off camping or enjoying a gaming marathon at home. I’m also a proud dog-mum to Sully, our rescue jug (Jack Russell Terrier x Pug), who loves exploring the Yorkshire countryside with us.

I joined Colton Vets for Pets in October 2021 as a Veterinary Care Assistant and began my Student Veterinary Nursing course in September 2022. I’m excited to have qualified and become a Registered Veterinary Nurse in February 2025. Moving into the veterinary industry was the best decision I’ve ever made, and I’m grateful to be part of such a fantastic team.

Growing up surrounded by animals, I’ve always had a special love for them, with a particular passion for small furries—hamsters are my absolute favourite. I’m deeply committed to small animal welfare and strive to continuously expand my knowledge to ensure our little companions live happy, healthy lives. I believe we have a responsibility to enhance care standards and welfare for all animals, especially those that are often overlooked.

As an English literature graduate, I love reading and constantly add to my ever-growing “to be read” pile. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my beautiful Ragdoll cat, Rasmus, creating new themes for my hamster enclosures, and charity shopping.

I joined the team at Colton in August 2022 as a Veterinary Care Assistant after transitioning from a career in primary school teaching. Becoming a Student Veterinary Nurse has been the best decision I’ve ever made, and I’ve never been happier.

I grew up in the Lake District, surrounded by all sorts of animals, from farm and wild creatures to household pets. I spent much of my free time volunteering at my local animal shelter, helping care for the animals in need. At home, I have three beloved whippet boys: Crumpet, Alfonso, and Mr. Badger.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about cheerleading and recently helped my team achieve 3x National and Grand Championship titles! I also love attending musical theatre shows and traveling across the country to enjoy the performances.

I joined Colton Vets for Pets in July 2023 as a Veterinary Care Assistant, with plans to begin my Student Nurse training in September 2024. After a career primarily in hospitality, this has been a big but rewarding transition, and I already feel it’s been my best decision yet.

Previously, I volunteered at an animal sanctuary that focuses on rescuing large animals and birds. Currently, I own a Warmblood chestnut mare named Phoenix, and I spend much of my time caring for and riding her.

Outside of work, I enjoy socialising with friends and family, baking, and dining out.

After working as a human nurse for the past six years, I decided to follow my true passion for animals. I joined Vets for Pets in August 2023, and I’m thrilled to be part of such a supportive team that genuinely cares about the welfare of every pet that comes through the door. I’m looking forward to starting my Veterinary Nurse training next year.

In my spare time, I love spending time with my husband, Tom, and our handsome, long boy, Jet (featured in my picture). I also enjoy gardening, baking, and attending as many concerts as possible.

With a lifelong passion for animals and their welfare, I decided to make a change from the insurance industry and joined Colton Vets for Pets in June 2023. I’ve already felt so welcomed by the team, and I thoroughly enjoy my role. It’s incredibly rewarding meeting our clients and seeing pets leave happy and healthy.

In my spare time, I love hiking and being outdoors, spending quality time with family and friends, attending music events, and travelling to new cities and countries. Above all, I cherish time spent with my three handsome boys—Teddy, Nacho, and Taco. In the future, I hope to add a dog to my family of cats.

I have been working at Colton Vets for Pets since November 2020, and this practice means so much to me. I am grateful to be part of such a kind-hearted and devoted team, and I especially enjoy working alongside my sister, our Head Nurse, who makes me proud every day.

Animals and their welfare are of utmost importance to me, and I strive to make a positive impact on our team, clients, and beloved patients. Having always had a deep connection with animals, I’m a proud zoophilist, with bonds to species of all shapes and sizes.

In my free time, I love relaxing with my cats, Soba and Sushi, playing video games, crocheting, reading poetry, and dreaming of the day I can welcome a dog into my life—his name will be Soy-Sauce.

I joined Colton Vets for Pets in November 2022, and I can already say it was the best decision for me. After spending 8 years working in hospitality, the transition has been significant, but the welcoming team here has made it a smooth and enjoyable experience. I love meeting our clients and their pets every day.

In my spare time, I enjoy going out for drinks with friends, dining at restaurants, and exploring different cities and the countryside on weekend breaks. In the future, I hope to have a dog of my own to join me on these adventures.

I have been working at Vets for Pets Colton since May 2022. From a young age, I’ve always had a passion for animals and their welfare, and I’m thrilled to be able to assist and meet wonderful clients and their beloved pets every day. No two days are ever the same, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see animals recover and go home happy and healthy.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two kitties, Koffiee and Mischa, playing video games, and drawing.

I joined the team at Colton Vets for Pets in November 2024 after relocating from Sydney, Australia, in August. The team has been incredibly welcoming, and I’m learning a great deal every day!

Cats have always been my one true love. After years of administrative work for Australian universities, I made a career change in late 2023 and found a role at a local cat hotel that operates above a vet practice. The team there offered me training on reception, and I quickly discovered my passion for the role. When I moved to the UK, veterinary reception was the only field I wanted to pursue, and I’m grateful that the Colton Vets for Pets team welcomed me onboard.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading Jonathan Kellerman novels, exploring Leeds, watching Pointless with my partner and his family, and indulging in coffee and sweet treats.