Meet the team
Robert Pattinson –Lead Veterinary Surgeon and Owner
Growing up on a Northumbrian hill farm meant Rob’s passion for animal care and welfare began at a very early age. The experience gained in his early years on the farm provided him with the skills necessary to embark on a varied and successful veterinary journey. Following graduation from Edinburgh University he began his career in mixed animal practice in North Yorkshire, here he gained a fantastic footing in the profession before moving to solely small animal practice as the years went by. Rob has worked in a wide range of veterinary centres, both independent and corporate, from Sri Lanka to The Outer Hebrides as both a permanent member of staff and locum veterinary surgeon.
Over a decade and a half spent working in the veterinary sector, experiencing The Good, the Bad and the Ugly has given Rob valued insights into many different practices and their characters! It has all helped him to forge his own high standards and values in veterinary care.
Rob prides himself on providing excellent client and clinical care. He has an authentic, honest, relaxed, caring and approachable style which allows him to quickly build strong relationships with his clients.
Rob is married to Amber, practice manager, together they have two young daughters; Ophelia and Isabelle alongside two fluffy Ragdoll cats, Patch and Misty, who you see featuring in a few photos on the website!.
Outside of work, Rob enjoys spending time with his family, experiencing the Northumberland countryside and our beautiful local beaches.
Amber Pattinson –Practice Manager and Owner
Amber is a clinical psychologist but won’t be working therapeutically in the vets! She will however be drawing on her skills in communication, empathy, line management and problem solving to support the practice, and team, in her role as practice manager. Amber’s interest in promoting positive mental health allows her to support North Shields Vets to not only be a welcoming place for clients, but also a nurturing and supportive place to work.
Outside of work, life is about spending time together, but when time does allow; you might spot Amber running along the Tynemouth coastline or catching a quiet moment in one of North Tyneside’s local coffee shops.
Together Amber and Rob have created North Shields Vets to provide a service that aligns with their values of providing honest, high quality, veterinary care with continuity and compassion. They look forward to getting to know you and caring for your pets.
Ellie-Animal Care Assistant
Hi, I’m Ellie, part time Animal Care Asssitant here at North Shields Vets! I recently gained my qualification in Animal Care and Dog Grooming at Kirkley Hall College, Northumberland.
I currently spend much of my free time volunteering at an animal sanctuary in Morpeth, where I help to look after all kinds of animals ranging from highland cows and horses, to pigs and sheep.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going for coastal walks and the occasional run, and listening to Taylor Swift.
Sam-Animal Care Assistant
Sam is a Veterinary Receptionist and Animal Care Assistant who joined the veterinary industry in 2021. Originally from Australia, she grew up on a hobby farm, where her love for animals began. After spending time back in Australia, Sam returned to the North East in 2024 and is very happy to now call it home.
She enjoys working across both reception and clinical support, and is passionate about making visits to the vets as stress-free as possible for pets and their people. Sam has a particular interest in fear-free care and is often the one making a fuss over patients, helping them feel safe, comfortable, and at ease during their visit.
Before moving to the UK, Sam spent time hand-rearing neonatal kittens and running puppy preschool classes, both of which strengthened her interest in behaviour, early socialisation, and building positive experiences for young animals.
Outside of work, Sam enjoys spending time on the coast, especially a good walk around Tynemouth and finding a coffee spot in the sunshine.
Caroline-Receptionist
Hi, I’m Caroline, one of the friendly receptionists here at North Shields Vets, where I help welcome you and your pets. I previously ran my own dog walking business, so caring for animals has always been at the heart of what I do. Combining this with my reception experience, I aim to make your visit as smooth and welcoming as possible.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and exploring new walks with my dogs, Jess, Eddy, and Arlo. You might even recognise my miniature dachshunds from our morning walks along the beach or around the Fish Quay.
Harriet-Receptionist
Hello, I’m Harriet and I’ll be one of the receptionists welcoming you to North Shields Vets.
I have a wealth of administration experience as well as a customer service background which will both assist in delivering a friendly and straightforward visit for you and your pets.
Having grown up around and experienced the bond with an array of animals, I know just how much your pets will mean to you and will ensure you both receive nothing but the best care.
I am originally from Yorkshire, but now proudly live in North Shields and love spending my time exploring the coast, visiting local businesses and making noise within the local music scene.
(I also have a very mischievous 2 year old cat called Rupert who has his own instagram account!)
Amy-Registered Veterinary Nurse
I’ve worked in the veterinary industry since 2012 and qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2017. I’m a local girl, having grown up not far from where the practice is today!
I’ve always had a love for animals, so a career caring for them felt inevitable. After leaving school, I initially explored an equine career before moving into small animal practice, where I worked in a busy hospital environment. I’m now here to make sure your pets receive all the care, cuddles, and comfort they deserve during every visit with us.
In my spare time, you’ll usually find me socialising with family and friends or at the local ice rink…sometimes both!
Aimee-Animal Care Assistant and Receptionist
I’ve been working in the veterinary industry for the past six years at a small independent practice, which I absolutely loved. I’m currently working towards my veterinary nursing qualification and hope to begin my Level 3 course at college later this year.
Outside of work, I have my own lovable terror of a Boxer called Marley, who I absolutely adore. I also enjoy hiking with my brother, and Marley too, if the walk isn’t too far! When I’m not out exploring, I love spending time with family and friends, usually taking part in quizzes that we somehow always seem to lose!