Our Team of Veterinary Professionals.
Our team combines veterinary expertise with a personal, compassionate approach to pet care. As a privately owned and operated veterinary practice, we have been proudly serving the City of Kawartha Lakes for over 23 years. Being part of this community allows us to build lasting relationships with local pets and their families, providing consistent, trusted care close to home.
100+
Years of Combined Veterinary Experience
10+
Dedicated Veterinary Professionals
23+
Years Family Owned & Operated
3200+
Families Served Within Our Community
OUR Veterinarians
Veterinarian & Owner
Dr. Matt Bates, DVM
Dr. Matt Bates joined Morris Veterinary Hospital in 2020 and is proud to serve the community as both a veterinarian and owner. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2020 and has developed a strong professional focus in advanced diagnostics, anesthesia, and soft tissue surgery.
As the hospital's primary soft tissue surgeon, Dr. Bates performs a wide range of surgical procedures. He completed additional training through the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance Externship Program, an internationally recognized program focused on advanced, high-quality spay and neuter techniques. This specialized training emphasizes minimally invasive surgical methods that reduce tissue trauma, shorten anesthesia and procedure times, promote faster recoveries, and help achieve the best possible outcomes for patients.
Dr. Bates also completed an additional four-month anesthesia placement at the Ontario Veterinary College, where he trained directly under board-certified veterinary anesthesiologists. During this intensive placement, he gained experience developing advanced multimodal anesthetic protocols for a wide variety of routine, advanced, and emergency procedures. This additional expertise allows him to tailor anesthetic plans to each individual patient, helping maximize safety, improve comfort, and support smoother recoveries.
Dr. Bates enjoys building strong relationships with both people and their pets, believing that the bond between them is at the heart of every successful outcome. His approach to patient care is comprehensive, focusing on understanding not only what condition a pet is experiencing, but why it has developed. He values taking the time to get to know each family and understand their individual circumstances. He believes the best care comes from working together, providing clear explanations, practical recommendations, and personalized treatment options that align with each client's goals and budget.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Bates enjoys spending time with his wife and their two young children. He volunteers with charitable organizations, including serving as a Director on the Board of the Canadian Angus Foundation. At home, he cares for a small herd of purebred Black Angus cattle, a Black Labrador named Nova, and three cats, Zoe, Zeus, and Biscuit.
Veterinarian & Founder
Dr. Claude Morris, PhD, DVM
Dr. Claude Morris founded the practice in 2003, bringing a rare combination of academic excellence
and practical veterinary experience. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Prince Edward Island in 1998, following a PhD in Zoology from Cambridge University in 1988, and a BSc (Hons) and MSc from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Claude has also completed training in basic veterinary forensics and point-of-care ultrasound, reflecting his commitment to expanding his expertise to better serve patients and clients.
For Claude, the greatest reward in veterinary medicine comes from seeing the joy in a client’s voice after a successful outcome. His approach to patient care is grounded in practicality and compassion: he strives to do what is best for each pet while considering the client’s circumstances. He deeply respects the dedication of pet owners, recognizing that they often make sacrifices for the animals they love, but he also believes that care should never come at the expense of the owner’s well-being, and encourages clients to make decisions without guilt.
Outside of the clinic, Claude enjoys spending time with his family, riding motorcycles, and playing guitar. At home, he shares his life with two cats, who are always ready to remind him of the joys of pet companionship.
Veterinarian
Dr. Brent Tanney, DVM, BSc
Dr. Brent Tanney has been a valued member of the practice since 2008, bringing decades of experience and a genuine passion for helping both pets and the people who care for them. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1982 after completing a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Toronto in 1978.
Before joining the practice, Dr. Tanney owned and operated both Fort Erie Animal Hospital and Blue Cross Animal Hospital for more than two decades. He also spent a year in Nova Scotia working with the Department of Agriculture, further broadening his experience in veterinary medicine.
One of the aspects Dr. Tanney enjoys most about his profession is the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. He believes that client education is an essential part of exceptional veterinary care and takes the time to ensure pet owners understand their pet's condition, diagnosis, and treatment options. By helping clients feel informed and confident, he empowers them to make the best decisions for their pet's health and wellbeing.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Tanney enjoys golfing, snowmobiling, travelling, and spending time with his four children. Throughout the years, he has shared his home with many pets, including three dogs and five cats, and even spent time breeding Siamese cats.
Veterinarian
Dr. Robyn Budgeon, DVM
Dr. Robyn Budgeon joined the practice in 2025, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep love for connecting with clients. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1996 and holds an Honours BA from the University of Toronto.
For Dr. Budgeon, the heart of veterinary medicine lies in the connections she builds with the people she serves. While she has a deep love for animals, she is equally passionate about supporting pet owners and guiding them through the care of their companions with empathy and understanding.
Dr. Budgeon's approach to patient care is practical, thoughtful, and flexible, she provides options that can bring comfort and relief to pets, even when uncovering the root cause isn’t immediately possible. Robyn takes the time to consider each client’s unique circumstances, recognizing that veterinary care is an out-of-pocket investment, and strives to offer guidance that is both compassionate and realistic.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Budgeon enjoys spending time with her grandson, whose company drew her to Lindsay in the first place. She is also dedicated to her Gypsy Cob pony, Sultan, and enjoys practicing Tai Chi at Lindsay’s local club. At home, she shares her life with her terrier-cross dog, Dobby, who keeps her active and smiling.
OUR Technical Team
Registered Veterinary Technician
Cassie Lownsbrough
Cassie has been a valued member of the Morris Veterinary Hospital team since 2013, bringing over a decade of experience, exceptional technical skill, and a deep commitment to patient care. She is a Registered Veterinary Technician and a graduate of the Veterinary Technician Program at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus.
With a natural ability to understand and handle animals, Cassie is known for her calm confidence, patience, and attention to detail. She has a remarkable ability to make patients feel comfortable, even during procedures that may be stressful or unfamiliar. Her gentle yet skilled approach allows her to provide exceptional hands-on care, from collecting blood samples and placing catheters to performing thorough ear cleanings, administering treatments, and assisting with complex medical procedures.
Cassie takes great pride in doing things correctly and thoroughly. Her strong technical abilities, careful observation, and commitment to high standards make her an invaluable part of the veterinary team. Whether she is assisting with surgery, monitoring a hospitalized patient, or helping a pet through a routine visit, Cassie approaches every task with the same level of care and dedication she would provide to her own animals.
Beyond her technical expertise, Cassie is deeply compassionate and understands that every pet and family has unique needs. She takes the time to support clients, answer questions, and help them feel confident in the care their pets are receiving.
Outside of the clinic, Cassie enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dogs. At home, she shares her life with her two dogs, Minnie and Sadie, and her cat, Gracie.
Registered Veterinary Technologist
Beth Cameron
Beth has been a dedicated member of the practice since 2003, bringing decades of experience and a calm, reassuring presence to patient care. She graduated from the Veterinary Technologist Program at St. Lawrence College in Kingston in 2000, where she was recognized by the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association for above-average standing with an emphasis on clinical practice.
Beth has a longstanding interest in surgery and in supporting healthy puppy and kitten behaviour, and she is especially focused on ensuring every patient feels safe and comfortable during their time in the clinic. Her approach to care is compassionate and patient-centered, always prioritizing comfort and trust.
When working with clients, Beth believes there is no such thing as an unreasonable question. She understands that veterinary medicine can feel overwhelming and takes pride in explaining care and conditions in clear, relatable ways, often using analogies to help clients better understand what their pet may be experiencing.
Outside of work, Beth enjoys reading, watching horror movies, swimming, and spending quality time with her daughter, Ashlyn. At home, she shares her life with her Yorkie/Pomeranian cross, Jax, who keeps her smiling and grounded.
Receptionist / Veterinary Assistant
Dylan Giles
Dylan joined the practice in April 2024, bringing enthusiasm, dedication, and a warm, welcoming presence to every client and patient interaction. He completed his Animal Care program at Durham College in August 2018 and is passionate about using his skills to make every visit a positive experience for both pets and their owners.
Dylan loves the variety and energy of veterinary medicine, from meeting animals of all breeds to helping clients navigate the challenges of pet care. His approach to patient care is rooted in empathy and respect, always striving to support pets and their owners with patience, understanding, and reassurance. He values the trust clients place in the team and takes pride in providing guidance, comfort, and knowledge when it’s needed most, ensuring that every pet receives the best possible care.
Outside of work, Dylan enjoys playing sports, video games, camping, and spending quality time with his family. At home, he shares his life with his dog, Oreo, and two cats, Dobby and Petunia, who keep him joyful and remind him daily why he loves working with animals.
Receptionist
Laura Staples
Laura has been part of the practice since it first opened its doors in 2003, bringing a warm, compassionate presence and a genuine love for animals to the team. As one of the original members of the practice, she has become a familiar and trusted face to clients and the broader community, helping create a welcoming experience from the moment families walk through the door.
Laura’s approach to client care is rooted in compassion, empathy, and clear communication. She understands the deep bond people share with their pets and values the love and dedication clients have for their animals. She takes pride in supporting families through every stage of their pet’s journey and helping ensure they feel heard, cared for, and welcomed.
Outside of the clinic, Laura enjoys life on the farm, gardening, camping, and spending time with her family. She is a dedicated grandmother who treasures every moment with her grandchildren, spending countless hours creating memories together, attending their events, and cheering them on throughout the year. Laura has also dedicated many years to supporting her community through 4-H, volunteering for more than 28 years. At home, she shares her life with Leo, her beloved cat, who keeps her company and reminds her daily of the special connection between people and their pets.
Receptionist
Lisa Klein
Lisa joined the practice in 2022, bringing with her decades of experience in veterinary care and client support. Her career in veterinary medicine began more than 30 years ago when she was offered a position at the clinic she trusted with her own pets. Through hands-on training, she developed her skills as a veterinary receptionist and assistant, and she has remained dedicated to the field ever since.
Lisa values being part of a team that truly cares about the health and wellbeing of both animals and their owners. Her approach to patient care is rooted in kindness and consideration, she treats every pet as if they were her own and strives to ensure each visit is as calm and supportive as possible. She especially enjoys meeting the wide variety of pets who come through the clinic doors, along with the people who love them so deeply.
Outside of work, Lisa enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and relaxing by the lake at the cottage. While she doesn’t have pets at the moment, her love for animals remains at the heart of everything she does.
Receptionist / Veterinary Assistant
Kattie Sims
Kattie has been a valued member of the Morris Veterinary Hospital team since 2004, bringing more than two decades of experience, a genuine love for animals, and a warm, welcoming presence to the clinic. Over the years, she has become a familiar and trusted face for generations of clients and their pets.
With a lifetime of experience caring for and handling animals, including both small animals and livestock, Kattie has developed an exceptional ability to understand animal behaviour and help pets feel comfortable in the clinic environment. Her calm approach, patience, and confidence allow her to connect with a wide variety of patients, while her practical experience gives her a unique perspective on animal care.
Kattie is known for her positive outlook, sense of humour, and ability to make everyone feel at ease. Whether she is welcoming clients at the front desk, answering phone calls, or helping the team behind the scenes, she brings the same level of enthusiasm, kindness, and professionalism to everything she does. Her ability to communicate clearly and connect with people makes her an important part of the client experience at Morris Veterinary Hospital.
Beyond her work at the clinic, Kattie is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She has dedicated countless hours to supporting youth and agriculture through programs such as 4-H Ontario, sharing her knowledge, encouraging the next generation, and helping others develop a greater appreciation for animals and agriculture. Outside of work and community involvement, Kattie enjoys spending time with her family and continuing to be surrounded by the animals she loves.
Careers at Morris Veterinary Hospital.
We’re always happy to hear from Veterinarians and Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) who care about providing kind, high-quality veterinary care.
As a privately owned and operated veterinary hospital, we have been proudly serving pets and their families in the Cith of Kawartha Lakes for over 23 years. We value long-term relationships, both with our clients and within our team, and take pride in being a steady, trusted part of the community.
Our clinic is a supportive, team-focused environment where we work together, help each other, and share a genuine commitment to patient care.
If you’re looking for a veterinary career where you can grow your skills, work with a great team, and make a real difference for pets and their families, we’d love to connect with you.