Meet Our Staff

Dr. Robert Wright (Dr. Bob) - Dr. Wright graduated from the University of Guelph with a BSc. Agriculture in 1973 and a DVM in 1978. He then practiced in Northern Ontario, in a mixed practice, for nine years. Along with the day-to-day treatment of dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and horses, he treated a fox, a moose calf, and other wildlife. Injuries to his knees forced him to leave active practice and accept an extension position with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Veterinary Branch. During his years with the Ministry, he wrote policy, supervised the veterinary assistance program, and reviewed research. Eventually he became the Specialist for Horses and Alternate Livestock (deer, rabbits, ostrich, etc.).

His extension work involved speaking to interest groups, writing and distributing factsheets and other articles, research, and assisting the industry with trade missions to Germany, USA, and Dubai.

He also continued to practice in small animal field. He has always enjoyed the practice of veterinary medicine, encompassing the exam, diagnostics and treatment, and/or surgery and the challenges they present. In particular, he enjoys the relationship he develops with the individual animals and their owners. He continues to expand his interest in small animal practice.

His other interests are horseback riding, motorcycle riding, photography, kayaking, and enjoying the outdoors. He has also completed a solar energy generating project and converted the house and hospital to geothermal heating. 

Dr. Wright continues is an active member in the Fergus-Elora Rotary Club, following his term as Club President in 2014.

Arlene Wright – In 1993, Arlene's interest in veterinary medicine grew as she assisted Dr. Wright in establishing the current veterinary practice. Over the years she has expanded her knowledge of veterinary medicine by attending conferences and courses. Managing the clinic has allowed Arlene to develop skills in business administration, computers, and staff/client relations. Also, her writing skills are put to good use as editor of the clinic newsletter. 

Dr. Heather McClinchey - Dr. McClinchey joined our team in the Fall of 2021 on a part-time basis. A practitioner with 16 years' experience, she covers every other Saturday.

Dr. Andrea Patterson - Joining the clinic early in the spring of 2023, you will see Dr. Patterson on the weekends, covering a Saturday or two per month.

Ruth Cudmore - Ruth joined the team in November 2011 providing a skill set of combining her love of animals, in particular cats, with her administrative training. Also, Ruth's "techie" skills are put to good use as she looks after the clinic's Website and Facebook page.

Randi Smith - Randi has been part of the team since October 2014 as our Ultrasound Technician.  She has almost 40 years' experience as a human ultrasound technician.  Her cheerful demeanor makes Randi a joy to work with and her ultrasound expertise is a strong asset to the clinic. 

Justine Melch - Justine joined the team in July 2015. She is a graduate from the Registered Nursing Program at Conestoga College. Her nursing training makes her a great asset to our hospital and she has already proven to be a fast and enthusiastic learner. Justine is currently on maternity leave.

Betty McMahon - In the Summer of 2016, Betty came to us from Groves Memorial Hospital after twenty-one years as a laboratory technician and twelve years as laboratory manager. She retired from Groves, but was not quite ready for full retirement! Betty works part-time doing regular duties in the clinic, as well as assisting with administrative duties. 

Marcella Mortley - Marcella joined the hospital team in July 2019.  With almost 40 years of experience in an animal clinic setting, she is quickly proving how her many excellent skills are a valuable asset to our clinic team.  Her strong love of animals, in particular her feline friends, really shows through while taking excellent care of our patients.

Helena Bolger - Following high school, Helena joined the team in 2020. She desires to obtain experience working in a veterinary hospital setting before continuing with her education in the veterinary field. In the fall of 2023, Helena will attend Northern College studying to become a Veterinary Technician.

Emma Banks - Emma joined our team in September 2021, and has completed her fourth year as a zoology student, with plans to attend veterinary school in the Fall of 2023. She's continuing to acquire experience in veterinary medicine while working full-time in our hospital. 

Shayna Newton joined our team in September 2021. After completing the Veterinary Assistant course at Seneca College in 2021, Shayna returned to school in the fall of 2022 to complete the Veterinary Technician course.  She will continue to work at the clinic while she attends school. 

Johanna Kidd is the newest member to join the team in September 2022. She completed her Veterinary Assistant course at Ashworth College and her cats, dog, and horse are thrilled that she can stop using them as her test patients!