REDLANDS Veterinary Clinic has been a familiar name in the community for nearly half a century, but this week, locals voted it the best in the region.
After an array of votes for the second week of our Best of Redlands and Bayside series, readers crowned the long-running family practice as their favourite vet, a win that carries deep meaning for the people behind the clinic.
Veterinary Director Dr Katria Lovell says the recognition feels especially significant because the clinic has always had its roots in the region.
“This means so much to our team as a proud, family-owned and operated, community-focused clinic,” she said.
“As long-term Redlands residents, being recognised by our community means the world to us.”
The Lovell family’s connection to local pet care stretches back to 1978, when parents Dr David and Dr Gail Lovell first opened the clinic.
David, now more than 55 years into his career, still plays an active role, particularly in the major hospital redevelopment currently underway.
Gail continues to work both at the main clinic and at the Russell Island branch she launched years ago to ensure Bay island residents had direct access to veterinary care.
Today, Katria and her sister Abbey Lovell, the clinic’s practice manager, are steering the next chapter while keeping the same community first ethos their parents built the business on.
That approach, Katria says, is exactly what sets them apart.
“We’re committed to thorough diagnostics and developing realistic, sustainable management plans, always with our patients’ quality of life as the priority,” she said.
“We value clear communication, consistency and a team-based approach.”
It’s a philosophy that shows up in the day-to-day transparency and comfort for both pets and owners, and an approachable team that’s available seven days a week, even on most public holidays.
For many locals, that reliability has become part of the fabric of living in the Redlands.
The clinic’s win comes at an exciting time, with renovations underway on a new veterinary hospital and updated policies being rolled out to support staff, clients and patients.
Katria says the award is a boost as they move forward.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the uplifting feedback,” she said. “We’re proud to keep building a Centre of Veterinary Excellence while staying connected to the community at the heart of our practice.”
