More Than Vets—Partners in Your Pet’s Health
Our team of veterinarians brings together a wealth of experience, knowledge, and compassion. Each member of our veterinary staff is deeply committed to the health and well-being of every animal that comes through our doors.
With diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, our vets work collaboratively to provide comprehensive and personalized care. From preventive medicine and diagnostics to surgery and rehabilitation, they approach each case with dedication, empathy, and a love for animals that drives everything they do.
Dr Carrie Fischer
Dr. Carrie Fischer brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her role as veterinarian and co-owner of the clinic. With degrees in science and veterinary medicine, including a PhD, Carrie is deeply committed to providing exceptional care to animals and their families.
Originally from rural Nova Scotia, Carrie moved to Fernie in 2018 to start a family and embrace the mountain town lifestyle she had always dreamed of. She’s proud to call Fernie her forever home and is passionate about serving the community she loves.
When she’s not at the clinic caring for your furry family members, Carrie enjoys life to the fullest—whether she’s in her garage gym, on the ski hill, hitting the local bike trails, or out adventuring with her husband, daughter, and their loyal dog Huck.
Dr Shannon Perz
Dr. Shannon Perz brings decades of experience and compassion to Fernie Vet Services. A graduate of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 1977, she has spent her career dedicated to small animal practice, working in Calgary for many years before making the move to Fernie in August 2023.
With a special interest in behavior, senior pet care, and internal medicine, Dr. Perz is passionate about helping pets live healthy, happy lives at every stage. She also enjoys working closely with new pet owners, offering guidance on puppy training and early care to set the foundation for a lifetime of wellness.
Outside the clinic, Shannon embraces the mountain lifestyle through hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. She shares her life with her loyal 8-year-old black Lab, Clark, and two charming black cats, Nyles and Dave. She’s thrilled to be part of the Fernie community and continue doing what she loves in such a vibrant, pet-loving town.
Dr Sylvia Hurdle
Dr. Sylvia Hurdle is a knowledgeable and highly skilled veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in animal care. A graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College, she began her career in mixed animal practice in Grey County, Ontario, and has since built a diverse background that includes emergency medicine and clinic ownership.
Now part of the team at Fernie Veterinary Services, Dr. Hurdle brings a special interest in abdominal and cardiac ultrasound, radiology, and oral and dental disease. She is also a member of the CVBC Dental Care Standards Committee, reflecting her dedication to advancing veterinary dental health.
Known for her thorough and thoughtful approach, Dr. Hurdle is passionate about providing high-quality, compassionate care that enhances the well-being of every animal she treats.
Dr Cali Lewis
Dr. Cali Lewis joined the East Kootenay veterinary community in 2020 and currently splits her time between Fernie Vet Services and our partner clinic, Tanglefoot Veterinary Services in Cranbrook. Veterinary medicine runs in Cali’s blood—she grew up immersed in the profession, following in the footsteps of her parents, both respected veterinarians.
Cali practices both small and large animal medicine, with a particular passion for bovine and equine care. She also has specialized training in animal chiropractic medicine and enjoys helping both large and small animals move and feel their best through this unique modality.
At home, Cali cares for two horses, a spirited blue heeler named Enzo, and a cat named Mia. When she’s not at the clinic, you’ll likely find her riding her horses—often with a bow in hand for mounted archery—hiking or paddleboarding with Enzo, or enjoying the beauty of the outdoors in the East Kootenays.
We’re grateful to have Cali as part of our extended team and appreciate the knowledge and energy she brings to every visit.