Dr Cathy Skinner is a Senior Para Hills Veterinary Clinic Veterinarian who joined our team in 2001. "I am truly one of those people who only ever wanted to be a vet," she says. "I do not know how old I was when I made the decision or why, but the desire never changed."

Dr Skinner spent her childhood in Oxford, England and Adelaide, South Australia, and attended the University of Adelaide and Flinders University, where she earned a science and veterinary science degree. She earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Queensland. She is a member of the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, and her professional interests include surgery, dentistry, medicine, acupuncture, rabbit medicine and surgery.

"I love surgery – it is like doing a giant jigsaw puzzle but with more rewarding, lasting results," she says. "Getting to know my clients and patients is satisfying – some have become friends. The relationship generated is fulfilling – knowing you have the knowledge and the desire to help another living creature."

Outside work, Dr Skinner enjoys cooking, travelling, movies, water and snow skiing, and spending time with her two daughters. She also cares for a domestic long-haired cat named Zed.