Greencross vet hospital saves the day for Werribee pet owners and vet students

Two months after U-Vet’s closure in Werribee, a new vet has taken over the space at the Melbourne University campus.

A new animal hospital has come to the rescue of Werribee’s pets and tertiary veterinary students, replacing the U-Vet hospital at Melbourne University which controversially closed last year.

Greencross Vet Hospital officially moved into the Melbourne University Werribee campus on Monday, where it will provide specialist vet services and act as a stepping stone for Melbourne uni vet students.

Greencross has set up shop inside a purpose-built veterinary hospital which was completed about five years ago with 14 consultation rooms and three surgical theatres.

There are also dedicated zones within the hospital for dogs, an exclusive cat only ward including consult rooms, and an area devoted to exotic pets.

This comes after the U-Vet hospital’s closure in December last year, which resulted in significant student backlash.

Melbourne Uni’s faculty of science dean Moira O’Bryan said the hospital would provide invaluable opportunities for students.

“We are very proud of our Doctor of Veterinary Medicine course and remain committed to ensuring high quality clinical teaching and learning outcomes for our students,” she said.

“This partnership will allow our students to experience a significant section of their clinical practice here at Werribee and gain exposure to a broad range of clinical opportunities throughout their placement.”

Likewise, Greencross chief operating officer Dr Michelle Kellaway labelled the opening a “wonderful milestone” for both the university and Greencross.

“Clinical placements are an important part of training for all veterinary professionals. We are thrilled that through our partnership with the University of Melbourne, Greencross veterinarians and vet nurses are able share their experience and knowledge with the next generation,” she said.

The hospital is tipped to treat more than 23,000 animals each year.

Greencross Vet Hospital will also be adding additional specialist services including neurology, oncology and internal medicine.