Clinic History

The Furry Family Veterinary Clinic is an independent and family-owned practice that commenced operation in June 2018.  Veterinarian Dr. Jason Evans and his wife Jaysha took control of the clinic from previous owner Dr. John Parncutt who had been practicing in Bentleigh since 1994 as John The Vet.

This change in management allowed Jason and Jaysha to achieve a goal that had been more than 10 years in the making.  With over 50 years of combined experience in the veterinary field, Jason and Jaysha have carefully planned a clinic with the current needs and expectations of pets and owners foremost in mind, to bring their vision of a modern-day veterinary clinic to life.

John’s decision to remain at the clinic allows clients both old and new, to benefit from the service and expertise that John The Vet was known for while experiencing the new culture of The Furry Family Veterinary Clinic.

Staff Profiles

Dr. Jason Evans BVSc, BSc
Dr. Jason Evans BVSc, BScVeterinarian & Practice Owner

– Jason graduated from The University of Melbourne in 2006 and has worked in multiple clinics across Victoria including large animal, small animal, emergency, and specialist facilities.
– Professional interests include surgery, dermatology, and medicine. He has also completed post-graduate studies in surgery from The University of Sydney in 2013.
– Jason is methodical and thorough with attention to detail, but also loves to have a chat (sometimes a little too much!).
– Married to Jaysha with 2 children and multiple furry members – dogs, cats, and horses.

Jaysha Evans
Jaysha EvansManager & Practice Owner

– Jaysha has worked in general practice, emergency, and specialist surgery facilities during her career spanning more than 20 years.
– Excited and motivated to develop a veterinary clinic of exceptional standards and care.
– Bubbly and friendly with an infectious laugh!
– Married to Jason with 2 children and multiple dogs, cats, and horses.

Dr. John Parncutt BVSc (Hons), MANZCVS (Pharm)
Dr. John Parncutt BVSc (Hons), MANZCVS (Pharm) Veterinarian

– John has been practicing in Bentleigh since 1994 as John The Vet.
– Post graduate qualifications in pharmacology and is a long-standing member of Monash University’s animal ethics committee.
– Core values – excellence in medicine and surgery, compassion, honesty, friendliness, and commitment to service
– Married with 3 children, 2 dogs and multiple birds.

Dr. Sharon Wills DVM, BSc
Dr. Sharon Wills DVM, BScVeterinarian

– Sharon is a graduate of the University of Melbourne and has been with us since 2023.
– She loves the variety that general practice brings and is passionate about building lasting relationships with her patients and their humans.
– Her journey to becoming a vet took a winding path, as Sharon also holds a degree in Music Theatre. When not in surgery or puzzling over the latest pathology results, you can find her on stage singing and dancing!
– At home, Sharon and her husband are happily bossed around by their cat, Meeko…but they wouldn’t have it any other way!

Dr. Jesse Burgess DVM, BVSc
Dr. Jesse Burgess DVM, BVScVeterinarian

– Jesse is a recent graduate of the University of Melbourne, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.
– He is dedicated to providing compassionate care, with a strong passion for fear-free veterinary treatment, ensuring that every patient’s visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
– Outside of the clinic, Jesse is an outdoor enthusiast who loves camping and hiking, always eager to explore new trails and connect with nature.
– A devoted Carlton footy fan, Jesse enjoys every opportunity to support his team and bond with fellow fans.
– Jesse looks forward to building lasting relationships with pets and their owners, promoting a positive and fear-free veterinary experience.

Dr. Heidi Bao BVSc (Hons)
Dr. Heidi Bao BVSc (Hons) Veterinarian

– Heidi wanted to be a veterinarian since high school after witnessing the birth of a kitten, under difficult circumstances, at her local veterinary clinic.
– Graduated from The University of Melbourne with Honours and worked in research before joining the team in 2012.
– Offers consultations in Chinese Mandarin as well as English.
– She is an exceptional artist dividing her time between being a veterinarian and an artist. Heidi now works with us on Saturdays only.

Dr. Claire Gumbleton
Dr. Claire GumbletonVeterinarian

– Raised on a dairy farm in Ireland, Claire developed a deep love for animals from a very young age.
– With a special interest in senior and geriatric patient care, Claire has a soft spot for the golden oldies, ensuring they receive the care and comfort they deserve in their later years.
– She thrives on building lasting relationships with clients, supporting them through every stage of their furry family members’ lives.
– The variety of veterinary work keeps every day fresh and exciting—no two days are ever the same! And of course, the daily dose of pup cuddles is always a highlight!

Lis Hyndman
Lis HyndmanPractice Manager & Veterinary Nurse

– Lis is the Practice Manager of The Furry Family Veterinary Clinic, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong passion for creating a positive workplace culture. She focuses on supporting and encouraging every team member to help them reach their full potential.
– A devoted lover of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Lis not only breeds these affectionate dogs but also enjoys spending time with her own.
– Outside of the clinic, she balances life with her husband, three children, and her beloved Cavaliers, who keep her on her toes!
– Lis is excited to foster an environment where both staff and pets thrive, ensuring everyone feels valued and supported.

Carli Koonin
Carli KooninHead Veterinary Nurse

– Carli is our Head Veterinary Nurse, bringing over 15 years of experience from both Sydney and Melbourne to our clinic.
– She is passionate about animal care, with a special love for Cavoodles, and enjoys forming meaningful connections with clients and their pets.
– Known for her willingness to help, Carli is always ready to assist in any way she can, creating a warm and welcoming environment for both pets and their families. – Outside of work, Carli is a devoted mum who loves spending time with her husband, son, and their beloved Cavoodle, Jackson. Together, they enjoy fun-filled days at the park, making memories and enjoying the great outdoors.
– Carli’s expertise and compassionate approach make her an invaluable part of our team, ensuring every patient receives the highest level of care.

Sharon Ware
Sharon WareSenior Veterinary Nurse

– Sharon is a Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons qualified Veterinary nurse with over 20 years of experience both here and in the UK.
– She loves all aspects of the job but has a fondness for theatre work, and a strange fascination with expressing anal glands!
– Outside of work, she is a loving mum to her two rescue cats, who have a combined 7 legs! Other hobbies include going to the cinema, yoga and feeding her chai tea addiction.
– Originally from Wales…please do not call her a Pom (unless you want to have a good laugh)!

Lauri Koonin
Lauri KooninSenior Veterinary Nurse

– Lauri is one of our Senior Nurses, bringing over 15 years of diverse experience from Sydney, Melbourne, and Israel. She has developed a strong focus on surgical nursing and internal medicine.
– Known for her compassionate nature and multitasking abilities, Lauri thrives in high-pressure environments, making her an invaluable asset to our team.
– As Carli’s identical twin sister, Lauri shares a deep commitment to animal care and building strong client relationships.
– At home, she enjoys life with her husband, two children, and their gorgeous (and enormous!) cat, Slinky.
– Lauri’s expertise and dedication ensure every patient receives exceptional care, and she is passionate about supporting both her team and the families they serve.

Tennille Thompson
Tennille ThompsonSenior Veterinary Nurse

– Tennille is one of our highly experienced veterinary nurses, with over 20 years in the field. Specialising in surgical nursing, she brings extensive knowledge in surgery and emergency care, making her an invaluable asset to our team.
– Outside of the clinic, Tennille is a huge musical theatre fan and a self-proclaimed cat lady—she has three!
– She is also the proud owner of a gorgeous Welsh Corgi named Corey, who keeps her on her toes.
– At home, Tennille stays busy homeschooling her two children while caring for her many beautiful pets.
– Her wealth of experience and passion for animal care make her a key part of our nursing team, ensuring every patient receives the highest level of attention and expertise.

Macy Cramer
Macy CramerVeterinary Nurse

– Macy is one of our passionate vet nurses who is on her way to becoming a vet! Currently in her second year of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Melbourne, she is excited to combine her love for animals with her growing knowledge in the field.
– While she enjoys assisting in surgery, her favorite part of the job is caring for patients and building relationships with their loving families. She’s also a fan of nail trims—no task is too small for the Mace!
– When she’s not at work or university, you’ll find Macy chasing the perfect wave at the beach or snowboarding her way through winter.
– With her dedication, enthusiasm, and hands-on approach, Macy is a valued member of our nursing team, bringing energy and care to every patient she meets.

Allie McLennan
Allie McLennanVeterinary Nurse

– Allie is one of our devoted veterinary nurses and a second-year vet student at the University of Melbourne. Before diving into the world of veterinary medicine, she completed a degree in agriculture, giving her a strong foundation in animal care.
– When she’s not caring for our patients, Allie can be found on the water—she’s been part of a local sailing club her whole life and has a deep love for the sport.
– At home, Allie is the proud owner of a Cavalier named Maddie, three cheeky cats, and a recently rescued critically ill kitten, Collin—who has since become our part-time clinic cat and a favorite among the team (when he’s not trying to eat us!).
– Allie’s passion for animal care, combined with her veterinary studies and hands-on experience, makes her a valued member of our team.

Lily Scott
Lily ScottVeterinary Nurse

– Lily is a dedicated vet nurse and an aspiring veterinarian, currently in her third year of veterinary studies at the University of Melbourne. Having already completed a Bachelor of Science, she is passionate about expanding her knowledge and skills in animal care.
– Lily thrives in high-adrenaline, intense moments, always ready to rise to the challenge when emergencies arise. What truly brings her joy, however, is connecting with pet owners and getting to know all the adorable patients that come through our doors. Her compassionate nature and excellent communication skills make her a favourite with both pets and their families.
– Outside of work and study, Lily enjoys relaxing with friends and spending quality time with her own crazy pets. Her furry family includes a 16-year-old cat named Boston, a 12-year-old chocolate Labrador named Buddy, and a playful one-year-old Golden Retriever named Oscar.
– Looking ahead, Lily hopes to specialise in emergency care and pursue her dream of working in critical care. She also plans to take a few trips to Africa to get up close with some of her favourite wildlife!

Ash Williams
Ash WilliamsVeterinary Nurse

– Bio to follow soon!

Sandy Koonin
Sandy KooninReceptionist

– Sandy brings a unique blend of experience and passion to our team. After retiring from a fulfilling career as a high school language teacher, she decided to follow her true calling and pursue a career working with animals. Sandy completed her Certificate III in Animal Studies, opening the door to her new path in veterinary care.
– Relocating from Sydney to Melbourne last year, Sandy joined the Furry Family as our practice receptionist. She is the friendly face and voice you’ll often encounter when visiting or calling our clinic.
– Always ready with a warm greeting and kind word, Sandy has a genuine love for our furry patients.
– Fun fact: Sandy is Carli and Lauri’s mum, keeping the family tradition of animal care alive and thriving!
– At home, Sandy and her husband are proud pet parents to two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Daisy and George, who bring endless joy to their lives.
– Sandy’s passion for animals shines through in her work, whether she’s providing exceptional service to our clients or spoiling our patients with extra cuddles and treats.