Erina Heights Vet Hospital

Veterinary hospital for Central Coast pets

Erina Heights Vet Hospital is a small animal veterinary centre located in Wamberal, in the Central Coast region of New South Wales (Australia). The practice cares for dogs and cats and presents itself as a modern hospital with a professional team of veterinarians and nursing staff. Its work focuses on the clinical care of pets, with services ranging from general consultations to surgical and dental procedures.

History and evolution of the practice

The hospital began operating in 1976 at its original Erina Heights site, under its founder Dr Michael Bates, as a mixed animal practice treating dogs, cats, horses, cows, alpacas and goats, among others. Dr Michael Jones joined in 1978 and became sole owner in 1987. By 1988, after the decline of the 1980s alpaca and goat trend, the practice had become almost exclusively a small animal practice.

In 2008, the Erina Heights site was compulsorily acquired by the Roads and Traffic Authority of New South Wales for the widening and reconstruction of the Central Coast Highway, forcing a move to its current location in Wamberal while retaining the practice's historic name. The centre reopened in late 2009 after extensive redevelopment and landscaping. In 2018, after more than forty years in practice, Dr Michael Jones began his transition to retirement and handed over the leadership to Dr Melissa Kozaruk, the hospital's current director.

Veterinary services

The hospital's range of services includes surgery, with specific mention of BOAS surgery (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome), consultations, dentistry, desexing, ophthalmology and end of life care. The practice describes itself as a small animal centre focused on the care of dogs and cats.

Professional team and continuing education

The hospital team is made up of veterinarians and nursing staff. The veterinarians include Melissa, Holly, Cameron and Michelle. The support team includes nurses Jacqui, Jade, Kelsie, Shannon, Leah, Emily, Laura, Jodie, Ellie and Robyn, as well as Toni on reception. The hospital has eleven nurses with level IV certification in nursing and surgical procedures.

Continuing education is presented as an essential element in maintaining the standard of care: the veterinarians regularly attend annual postgraduate conferences in Australia and overseas, and the nursing staff take part in various courses.

Service area and community ties

The hospital cares for pets and owners from Erina, Wamberal, Terrigal, Forresters Beach, North Avoca and Bateau Bay. The team takes part in the local community through its presence at the annual Bark in the Park event, the organisation of free microchip clinics and collaboration with local schools to educate children about responsible pet ownership.

Practical information about the centre

The published consultation hours are Monday to Friday 8:00am to 6:00pm, Saturday 8:00am to 12:00pm, and it remains closed on Sundays and public holidays. The website offers the option to book an appointment online and request medication.

Location and contact

661 Central Coast Highway, Wamberal, NSW 2260 · Phone: (02) 4384 5888 · Email: info@erinaheightsvet.com.au · Hours: Monday to Friday: 08:00-18:00; Saturday: 08:00-12:00; Sunday: closed; public holidays: closed