Dr Briar graduated from The University of Queensland in 1995 and began her career in mixed practice in Mount Gambier, South Australia, before travelling overseas to work as a locum veterinarian in the United Kingdom and at an animal shelter in Jaipur, India—an experience she still describes as life-changing.

Since settling in Brisbane in 2003, Dr Briar has cared for pets and their families across inner Brisbane and the Redlands. She is passionate about building lasting relationships with clients and providing compassionate care through every stage of a pet’s life. Outside of work, Dr Briar enjoys spending time with her husband, their three busy children, Betty the Golden Retriever x Labrador, two cats, five chickens and one very elderly guinea pig.

It always starts with one. Who was your special pet? For me, it was Samson, my first dog—a much-loved Labrador Retriever and truly the dog of my heart. Like many family dogs of the 1970s and ’80s, he spent his days roaming the neighbourhood with my brothers and me.

Looking back, I know Samson probably needed a veterinary advocate during the final chapter of his life. That experience has stayed with me and is one of the reasons I feel so privileged to now provide compassionate care and support for other pets and the families who love them.

What else are you passionate about? Giving back to my community has always been important to me. I’ve volunteered since high school and, over the past decade, have been actively involved in my children’s school P&Cs through fundraising, committee work and supporting the wider school community. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, travelling and sewing, especially creating cosplay costumes for my teenagers. I’m also passionate about advocating for people with additional support needs and promoting greater understanding of neurodiversity.

What do you love about palliative medicine? I believe that when we welcome a pet into our lives, we make a promise to always do what is best for them. Sometimes that means surgery, special diets or endless games of fetch. Other times, it means compassionate palliative care and, when the time is right, a peaceful, pain-free goodbye. Helping families honour that promise is one of the greatest privileges of my profession.

Qualifications: Bachelor of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland (Hons)