Dr James Tiernan is one of the owners of Vets of Geelong and has been caring for pets and their families for more than two decades. James grew up in country Queensland surrounded by animals, which sparked his early passion for veterinary medicine.
After graduating with a Veterinary Science degree from the University of Queensland in 2001, he moved to the United Kingdom where he spent nine years working in busy small animal practices, gaining extensive experience treating dogs, cats and many small “pocket pets” commonly seen in the UK such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice and birds.
While in the UK, James completed his General Practitioner Certificate in Small Animal Medicine (GPCert SAM) through the European School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies, further developing his skills in small animal medicine and complex medical cases.
After returning to Australia, James worked at the University of Queensland Veterinary Small Animal Hospital before moving to Victoria to join the Western Animal Emergency Centre at the University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital in Werribee, where he further developed his interest in emergency and critical care medicine.
In June 2010, James and his wife Dr Jane Tiernan fulfilled a long-held dream when they took over ownership of the Highton Veterinary Clinic. At the time the clinic had a small team of just eight people, including James and Jane.
Through a strong focus on clinical care, team culture and supporting local pet owners, the practice has grown steadily over the years into Vets of Geelong, now operating across four sites with a large team of veterinarians, nurses and support staff. Today Vets of Geelong has become a trusted clinic of choice for pet owners across the Geelong region.
James now works closely with the veterinary team across the clinics, supporting clinical decision making and helping guide more complex medical and emergency cases.
James has a strong interest in small animal medicine, emergency care and pocket pets.
He also has a soft spot for cats, particularly British Shorthairs, including his own cat Theo, and has always loved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. The Tiernan family have two Cavaliers, Maple and Zuma, who are much loved members of the family.
Outside of the clinic, James and Jane are kept busy by their four children Seamus, Niamh, Aislin and Declan. When he can find the time, James enjoys cycling and getting to the gym.
At home the Tiernan household is full of animals including Theo the British Shorthair, along with the family’s birds, guinea pigs, bearded dragon, two turtles, fish and even a beehive.