Meet the Team at Salisbury Highway Veterinary Surgery

Dr David Porublev has been dedicated to keeping tails wagging, whiskers twitching, and smiles bright at SHVS since 2013. With over a decade in the veterinary industry, he’s passionate about all aspects of small animal care, but he does have a soft spot for dentistry and oral surgery (because fresh breath is a gift to us all!).

After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Adelaide in 2013, David continued his studies, gaining a Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care and becoming a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Surgeons (ANZCVS) in Small Animal Dentistry and Oral Surgery in 2022.

Whether it’s a routine check-up or dental surgery, he’s all about helping pets feel their best. At home, David is outnumbered by his three feline overlords—Trevor, Candee, and Mr Business—a trio of domestic shorthair cats who ensure he never gets too comfortable on the couch.

When he’s not busy keeping pets happy and healthy, you’ll find him gardening, sipping coffee, or enjoying a great glass of wine (sometimes all at once!).

Dr David is proud to be leading the SHVS team alongside Dr Ellen and is passionate about keeping your pets happy, healthy, and thriving.

Dr Ellen has been part of the SHVS family for over a decade, starting as a Veterinary Nurse in 2013 before graduating with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Adelaide in 2016. Her career has taken her across Australia and beyond, with a strong passion for both clinical work and volunteer veterinary care.

After graduating, Ellen spent time volunteering overseas, dedicating the COVID years to animal welfare efforts in the South Pacific. She later worked as a Locum Vet around Adelaide and spent six months practising in Mackay, Queensland, before returning to SHVS in 2023. In 2024, she furthered her expertise by becoming a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Surgeons (MANZCVS) in Small Animal Radiology.

Outside of the clinic, Ellen loves camping, staying active at the gym, and catching up with friends. She also enjoys combining her love for travel with volunteer veterinary work whenever possible. At home, she shares her adventures with Sergio, a curious young grey tabby who insists on sampling everyone’s food and even joins in on camping trips—he’s due for his own swag soon!

Dr Ellen is excited to be leading the SHVS team alongside Dr David and looks forward to providing exceptional care to your fur family.

Michele is the heart and soul behind the scenes at SHVS, having been with the team since 1993! With 41 years in the veterinary industry, she brings a wealth of experience and a calm, organised presence to the clinic. Michele holds a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, and her knowledge of both animal care and practice management ensures that everything runs smoothly at SHVS.

At home, Michele is always surrounded by her pets. Her Tonkinese, Cobby, is an 11-month-old water-loving adventurer, while her six-month-old domestic shorthair, Manni, keeps things lively with her chirpy and playful personality.

Outside of work, Michele loves to unwind by reading, watching football, and indulging in her gardening passion—whether it’s arranging, remodelling, or upscaling different areas, she’s always thinking of new ways to make her garden bloom.

Michele is dedicated to ensuring that both our team and your pets are well taken care of, and she’s always happy to help make your experience at SHVS as smooth as possible.

Leah has been part of the SHVS team since 2002, bringing over 30 years of experience and a love for all things animals! As a Certificate IV Veterinary Nurse, she’s passionate about caring for every pet that comes her way.

At home, Leah’s life is full of four-legged friends. She shares her home with dogs Tessa and Indi, and Shelly, a turtle with a very slow pace of life. Leah also has an adorable squad of cats—Messi, Spaz, Ginger, and Ninja—each with their own quirky personality. But that’s not all! Leah is also the proud owner of a group of Welsh ponies—Kira, Jewel, Poppet, Cinder, Polly, Beth, and Harley—there’s never a dull moment at Leah’s house!

When Leah’s not at the clinic, she’s busy supporting her daughter, who competes in athletics. Leah also enjoys camping with her family and catching horse shows whenever she can.

Leah’s got plenty of energy to go around, and she’s always ready to help with a smile!

Lauren has been part of the SHVS team since 2020 and has been caring for pets in the veterinary industry for seven years. She’s a pro at keeping things running smoothly and making sure every furry visitor gets the VIP treatment (treats and belly rubs included!).

At home, Lauren’s sidekick is Sonny, a playful Golden Retriever who’s completely obsessed with his favourite toy—a Golden Retriever plush named Gus! When she’s not at work, you’ll find Lauren cooking up a storm, tending to her garden, or off on adventures with Sonny.

Lauren looks forward to meeting you and your pets at SHVS!

Annabel joined the SHVS team in 2024 and brings a solid foundation in animal care, with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and Animal Behaviour. She’s currently working towards her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing to become a fully qualified veterinary nurse. With five years in the veterinary industry, Annabel is eager to continue learning and helping animals in every way she can.

At home, Annabel shares her life with her quirky pair: Harvey, a seven-year-old domestic shorthair born without a tail, and Maisy, a five-year-old domestic shorthair who loves to be picked up in paper bags.

When she’s not at work, Annabel enjoys camping, being surrounded by nature, working on yarn crafts, reading, and spending quality time with animals, family, and friends.

Annabel is excited to be part of the SHVS team and looks forward to caring for your pets with the same passion she brings to her studies!

Kat joined the SHVS team in March 2023 after spending 12 years at the Animal Welfare League, where she gained a wealth of experience in caring for animals in need. As a Veterinary Nurse Assistant, Kat works directly with hospital and surgery patients, ensuring they’re comfortable and well cared for during their treatments and recovery.

At home, she’s kept busy by her quirky trio: Arnie, her ginger cat with no tail; Banksy, the Burmese who can’t resist hair ties; and Willow, a Maltese cross named after a Taylor Swift song.

When she’s not at work, Kat loves exploring beaches with her family, being a die-hard Taylor Swift fan, and indulging in her hobby of cemetery hopping (because who doesn’t love a bit of local history?).

Kat looks forward to meeting your pets and ensuring they get the best care during their time with us!

Grace joined the SHVS team in 2025 and is already a fantastic addition to our crew! Although she’s new to the veterinary industry, her enthusiasm is contagious. Grace holds a Certificate II in Animal Studies and is currently working on her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing—she’s well on her way to becoming an expert in all things furry and four-legged!

At home, Grace is kept busy by her loyal companion, Bowie, a playful one-year-old Golden Retriever who is always by her side and loves a good zoomie session. She also shares her home with Ziggy, a wise 12-year-old Burmese cat who knows how to relax and enjoy life.

When she’s not at the clinic, Grace loves to travel, hike, and spend time in the kitchen baking and cooking (we’re all hoping for some of her delicious creations!). She also enjoys walking Bowie and spending time with family and friends.

Grace is excited to be part of the SHVS team and can’t wait to meet you and your pets!

Jules has been a part of the SHVS team since 2022, bringing with her an impressive 18 years of experience in the veterinary industry. As a receptionist, Jules is the friendly voice you’ll hear when booking appointments or asking questions, always ready to assist with a smile.

At home, Jules shares her life with Kit, an eight-year-old Quaker parrot who’s absolutely obsessed with peas.

Outside of work, you’ll find Jules enjoying horse riding, gardening, and volunteering, always looking for new ways to keep busy and give back to the community.

Jules is excited to meet you and your pets and make your visit as easy and pleasant as possible!