Get to know Dr Lydia – what she loves about working with animals and the advice she wishes every pet owner knew.
What inspired you to become a veterinarian?
Ever since I was a young kid, I always loved reading, especially picture books with farm animals! One day I came across a story book about a vet named Lydia, and that inspired me to constantly yearn for becoming a vet! Also, that’s when I decided to name myself “Lydia”.
Do you have any pets of your own?
Unfortunately, no. My latest pet was the cutest 16-year-old Labrador, whom I raised since he was a puppy. He basically grew up with me and I treated him like my younger brother. He still holds a big part in my heart.
What do you love most about working in this community?
I love meeting new people, but also meeting the ones I met! This community contains the loveliest of all people and I love listening to their pet stories. The painful ones are not so great, but it is really funny to hear what their dog/cat got up to this time. Also, I think Seaford has one of the most beautiful beaches in Victoria.
What’s one piece of advice you wish every pet owner knew?
Dental health is not optional! It is so easy to overlook dental care but in reality it is one of the most common BUT preventable disease in pet’s health. If you have a puppy, use a small amount of peanut butter to get them used to a toothbrush, but otherwise there are plenty of dental chews out there that you can try.
Do you have a favourite animal? What is it and why?
I absolutely love quokkas. But I hate to say, I have not seen one in my life! Travelling to perth to see wild quokkas is on my bucket list. Also, I love capybaras, they are the most gentle largest living rodents!
