MEET OUR TEAM
We think it’s important for pet owners to know a little bit about the people
caring for their pets.
Here you can learn about our vets, nurses and support staff, including some of their professional and personal interests.
We value a culture of team-work at Avenue Vet Centre, something which shines through in the positivity, motivation and commitment of our team.
Veterinary Surgeons
Mark Picton
BVSc MRCVS
Owner & Veterinary Surgeon
Mark C Picton
I qualified from Bristol in 1994 and joined the practice in January 1995, and thoroughly enjoyed what mixed practice offered, encompassing all creatures great and small, and have treated some unusual creatures ranging from a leopard gecko to a reindeer.
I joined the partnership in 2000, and have been the sole director since 2013. My current menagerie includes a labrador, Islay, who makes up with enthusiasm what she lacks in training, and 3 cats Kitty, Tank and Luna. I believe it is important to think as a pet owner, and to try to provide a practice where we do the right thing at the right time. I enjoy spending time with my family and keeping fit.
Jenny Rawling
BVM&S MRCVS
Veterinary
Surgeon
Jenny Rawling
I have been working at AVC since 2005, after moving to Bristol from the North of England. I have a GP medicine certificate and an interest in epilepsy and in pain management including acupuncture. Outside work I am a founder trustee of an epilepsy charity and my three children and dog keep me busy.
Heidi Richards
BVSc MRCVS
Veterinary
Surgeon
Heidi Richards
Heidi graduated from the University of Bristol in 1992. Before joining us, she worked as Head Vet at Bath Cats & Dogs Home and was proudly part of the charity for 12 years. Her work in the charity sector has given Heidi lots of experience working with anxious and fearful animals and she is a big advocate for the gentle handling of pets.
Heidi is an ‘all-rounder’ and enjoys all aspects of first opinion practice – although she does have a keen interest in medicine. Heidi is passionate about pain management, and focuses on ensuring pets are comfortable and pain-free – especially as they age!
Outside of work, Heidi is a keen competitive rower.
Veterinary Nurses
Lucy Rowe
RVN
Veterinary Nurse
Lucy Rowe
I first came to the practice in 2012 as a work experience student and helped out once a week. I began training as a Veterinary Care Assistant and then furthered my skills and began my Veterinary Nursing Qualification. I qualified as an RVN in 2021.
I have a 13-year-old Westie named Harvey and 3 chunky guinea pigs: Boris, Heimlich & Winston!
Claire Perkins
RVN
Veterinary Nurse
Claire Perkins
Claire qualified as an RVN in 1999. She joined us from another local practice after working there for 24 years!
Claire loves the variety that comes with being a Veterinary Nurse, but she has a particular interest in nurse consultations – as she loves being able to care for patients, while also enjoying a chat with their owners!
Jade Fincher
SVN
Student Veterinary Nurse
Jade Fincher
I joined the AVC team as a receptionist in 2019, and I enjoy building lasting relationships with our clients (and their pets!).
I completed my Animal Nursing Assistant qualification in 2018 and started my new role as a Student Veterinary Nurse in January 2022.
I have a huge interest in anesthesia and enjoy keeping up to date with the latest research and evidence to ensure our patients receive the best standard of care. I’m passionate about all things feline and have been a cat owner my entire life. My very spoilt cat – Max, keeps me busy outside of work!
Jayden Boulton
VCA
Veterinary Care Assistant
Jayden Boulton
I joined the Avenue team in October 2021. As a Veterinary Care Assistant, I am constantly on the go – ensuring everything behind the scenes is running smoothly. I love the variety of my role and particularly enjoy spending quality time with our lovely patients.
At home – I have a Guinea Pig called Wilbur, and a Brazilian Black Tarantula named Nimbus.
Customer Care Team
Kimberley Skinner
Receptionist
Kimberley Skinner
I joined the team in February 2022 and love greeting and assisting clients however I can. If I’m not busy at the front desk, you can usually find me sneaking in a quick cuddle with one of our lovely patients.
Outside of work, I have two crazy Cockapoos called Elsie & Dexter that keep me busy!
