Laura and Ciaran Ryan met while they both were living and working abroad in Australia — and brought that experience home to build Thedford Veterinary Hospital.
Veterinarian
Co-founder
Laura and Ciaran Ryan met while they were both living and working in Australia. After meeting on a tour through the centre of Australia, they discovered they shared more than a love of travel and adventure: they both loved and respected animals and had dedicated their lives to working with them.
Laura grew up in Bright's Grove and always wanted to be a veterinarian. She explored that interest at a young age by volunteering and working part-time at her local vet clinic. Her dream came closer to reality when she was accepted into the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph, where she graduated with honours in 2011.
Meanwhile, in Ireland, Ciaran grew up training and working with horses and developed a love of riding. His work took him to other horse-racing countries, including Australia, where he worked with and trained racehorses.
Laura worked for six years at a mixed-animal veterinary practice in Victoria, Australia, where referrals for specialty procedures and emergencies were uncommon. She gained extensive emergency medicine experience with a variety of animals and performed surgeries including wound repairs and soft tissue procedures. She also treated snakebite and other emergencies.
Laura was working at that clinic while Ciaran worked at a nearby horse training and breeding facility. They met up again and have been together ever since. Ciaran introduced Laura to horse riding, which has remained a source of fun and relaxation for her.
While in Australia, they lived on a small farm with sheep, alpacas, horses, their first dog together, Marley, and their cat, Skittles. Shortly before moving back to Canada, they added Lily and Czar, two Russian Toy Terriers, to the family. Lily and Czar's daughters, Penelope and Lexi, later joined them, along with Pepsi the cat.
After moving back to Canada to be closer to family, Dr. Laura Ryan worked for almost three years as an associate veterinarian at Bright's Grove Animal Hospital, where she had worked while growing up. Laura and Ciaran then started Thedford Mobile Veterinary Services and opened Thedford Veterinary Hospital at 83 Main Street in Thedford.
Assistant Manager
Originally from Caledonia, Tat is our assistant manager and an all-rounder at Thedford Veterinary Hospital. From welcoming clients at reception to clipping nails, taking blood samples and monitoring patients, she brings enthusiasm and a hands-on approach to every part of her day.
Outside the clinic, her dog Voodoo holds the top spot in her heart—with her boyfriend Nick a distant second! Tat enjoys early-morning fitness sessions, horse riding whenever she gets the chance, and heading up north for a camping adventure.
Veterinary Assistant
Originally from Forest, Chelsea first joined Thedford Veterinary Hospital as a high school co-op student in 2023. She stayed with us after her placement and has continued to develop her skills and become a valued part of the team. Along the way, she and Tat have become firm friends—although they might tell you that took a little time!
Chelsea is often fuelled by an energy drink and enjoys the occasional hike. At home, she has two dogs, Tucker and Dexter, and a three-legged cat appropriately named Tripod.
In January, Chelsea will begin a veterinary assistant program, building on the experience she has gained here at the clinic.
Veterinary Assistant
Olivia joined Thedford Veterinary Hospital as a high school co-op student in 2025 and continued working with us after her placement. In September, she headed back to school to pursue her goal of becoming a veterinary technician. Luckily for us, she still returns to the clinic once a week to help the team and keep building her practical experience.
Outside the clinic, Olivia is a dog person at heart, though she also has a soft spot for stray cats. She enjoys walks on the beach, nights out and dinner dates. We’re pleased to remain part of her journey as she works towards a career in veterinary care.
Receptionist
Renee brings plenty of laughter and a warm welcome to Thedford Veterinary Hospital. A proud Newfoundlander, she never misses a chance to remind the team of her roots—although we’re still waiting on that birth certificate!
After several years managing the paperwork and business administration for her husband’s farrier business, Renee brings that experience to our reception team and is happy to be back in the veterinary field.
Outside the clinic, Renee enjoys spending time with her husband and her dogs, Luna and Cora, and has a soft spot for men with ponytails! Her daughter, Alexis, has now flown the nest, and Renee is enjoying this new chapter in life.
Receptionist, affectionately known as “Mr. Dutchy”
John first joined Thedford Veterinary Hospital part-time before becoming a full-time member of the team about a year ago. Friendly and approachable, he enjoys chatting with clients and helping them feel welcome.
Originally from Germany, John earned the nickname “Mr. Dutchy” thanks to his Dutch girlfriend, Lisse—we’re aware the geography doesn’t quite add up! He speaks five languages: French, German, Dutch, Armenian and English, although the team occasionally gives him a little grief about the last one.
Outside the clinic, John enjoys making music, working on leather restoration projects, and spending time with Lisse, his dog Gonzo and cat Elmo. He also appreciates a good beer and looks forward to Oktoberfest every year!
