Meet the Team

Experience you can trust

We bring years of experience and devotion to every appointment. Discover more about our team or better yet, come meet us in person at our Bexleyheath clinic.

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Meet Our Founders

Javier and Rafael often get praised for their ability to understand their patients and clients to deliver the best possible treatment. Their warmth, professionalism and openness shine through everything they do.

Javier Herrero

Veterinary Surgeon and Director

Originally from Spain, I became a Veterinary Surgeon at the University of Leon in 2007. Since 2009, I have been practising in the UK, with a primary focus on patient care. At the beginning of my career, I balanced day clinic and emergency service work, which led me to pursue additional training in surgery and minimally invasive procedures, that we provide at NoviVet. 

As a vet, I understand that decisions about our pets' health are not always straightforward. My goal is to help pet owners understand their options and make the best decisions for their pet's wellbeing. 

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, watching sports, and going hiking.

Rafael Garrido with his cat

Rafael Garrido

Veterinary Surgeon and Director

Born in Granada, Spain, I followed my lifelong dream of becoming a vet, graduating from the University of Córdoba in 2006. Since 2007, I've been caring for small animals in the UK, forming strong bonds with pets and owners alike. 

The most satisfying part of my job is helping my patients overcome obstacles in the way and lead long, happy lives. Their gratitude and joy when they get better are priceless to me. With a keen interest in surgery, I strive to deliver the best possible care to every patient. 

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, indulging in fossil hunting, photography, and travelling.

Get to Know Our Staff

You will receive a warm welcome and support throughout your visit. Our staff goes the extra mile to create a stress-free experience for you and your pet.
Lucy Craig with her dog

Lucy Craig RVN, Head Nurse

I graduated from Harper Adams in 2019 with a degree in Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management. I have a keen interest in animal nutrition, and I completed the BSAVA merit award in nutrition in 2023. Additionally, I enjoy inpatient care and love seeing my patients return to full health. Despite being very clever and knowing lots of tricks, my cocker spaniel, Bramble, often ends up visiting the vet after eating things he shouldn't, such as socks, gloves, and even parts of footballs.
Tasha Wilson with her dogs

Tasha Wilson, RVN

I began my journey in vet practice as a receptionist/VCA in 2007. After training at Hadlow College, I became a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2015, driven by my lifelong passion for animal welfare. I've rescued and re-homed numerous animals, fostering a deep connection to their care. Seeing the transformation of sick pets into happy and full-of-life pets brings me immense joy. I've worked across various practices in the South East, specializing in patient care, wound management, and ECC. With a keen interest in behavior, I am hoping to complete a course in this field soon. Outside work, I cherish time with my children and fur baby, Poppy, enjoying outdoor activities and tending to my new allotment.
Phoebe Mallion with her dogs

Phoebe Mallion, RVN

I qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in January 2024 from the Central College of Animal Studies. My favourite part of the job is caring for all of the animals that come into the practice and the fact that every day is different. Outside of work, I love spending time with my two dogs, Poppy and Milo.
Toni Day with her dog

Toni Day, Receptionist

I have worked as a veterinary receptionist for 12 years, where I get to combine my love for working with people and my passion for pets. Before this, I spent 25 years working in libraries. My job as a receptionist is incredibly fulfilling as no two days are the same. I face different challenges and get to enjoy a cuddle with pets and a chat with their owners. When I'm not at work, I enjoy staying active through fitness, hiking gardening and taking care of my beloved dog and rabbits.
Katie Puttock

Katie Puttock, Receptionist

I’ve been a Veterinary Receptionist since 2017 and enjoy every aspect of my role from chatting on the phone to submitting your insurance claims. The best thing about my job is watching your pets grow up and building a relationship with the clients. Your pets will know me as ‘Auntie Katie’ and gain another 1kg before they enter the consulting room (don’t tell Javier or Rafael!) Outside of work, I enjoy a bottomless brunch, smiling at strangers’ dogs on a walk and a cat nap.
Ashleigh Hodge profile photo

Ashleigh Hodge, Student Veterinary Nurse

I have been working in the veterinary industry for seven years. Before that, I worked as a kennel hand and with a rescue organisation. I share my life with three wonderful dogs: Albert, a blind and deaf border collie, Tilly, a retired working cocker spaniel, and Ernie, a cockapoo with special needs as he has a cleft palate. My area of expertise is juvenile care, and I have a lot of experience in hand-rearing puppies, kittens, and, occasionally, wildlife. Apart from work, I enjoy playing darts and going on long adventures with my partner and dogs.