Meet our Team
We have assembled a skilled team that includes Dr Philip Witte and Dr Harry Scott, two of the most experienced orthopaedic surgeons in the UK. Harry and Phil worked together from 2008 to 2020 at a growing multi-disciplinary referral centre. During that time Phil underwent specialist training, culminating in his RCVS accreditations in surgery and orthopaedic surgery. Harry was Phil’s mentor and teacher during this time. They have an excellent working relationship and they were delighted when, after a hiatus of four years working in different centres, the planets aligned and an opportunity to develop a new centre arose.
Orthopaedic Surgeons
Phil Witte
BSc BVSc CertAVP(GSAS) DSAS(Orth) MRCVS RCVS Diplomate and Recognised Specialist in Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics) Learn moreHarry Scott
BVSc CertSAD CCRP CBiol FRSB DSAS(Orth) DECVN DECVSMR FRCVS RCVS Diplomate in Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics) and European Diplomate in Veterinary Neurology and Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Learn moreRegistered Veterinary Nurses
Laura Brooks RVN
Laura began her career in veterinary nursing in 2017 as an animal care assistant in a large referral centre. She completed her nurse training at a large general practice and attained her RVN status in 2022. Laura loves all aspects of veterinary nursing but is particularly passionate about patient care and surgical nursing. She is currently working toward a surgical nursing certificate to further expand her knowledge and is looking forward to developing and putting new skills into practice.Samara Brown RVN
Samara started her veterinary nurse training in 2021 at a busy first opinion practice in Southampton. She qualified in 2024 and shortly after started working at Wessex Veterinary Orthopaedics. Samara strives to continually learn, always keen to build on the high quality of care she already delivers. She is working toward an advanced anaesthesia certificate. Her passion for animals extends into her personal life, having volunteered caring for elephants in Thailand and performing conservation work in South Africa. At home she cares for Lilly the English springer spaniel.Ellie Rodriguez RVN
Ellie started her veterinary nursing career in 2020 as an Animal Nursing Assistant. She trained at a first opinion practice in Bournemouth and qualified as an RVN in 2024. Her love for surgery and the theatre environment encouraged her to join the team at Wessex Veterinary Orthopaedics, and with an enthusiasm for continued learning, Ellie is undertaking a Surgical Nursing certificate. She has a particular love for felines, and shares her home with her three-legged friend, Sunny.Mia Earle RVN
Mia started her veterinary nursing career in 2021 at a busy first opinion practice in Southampton and qualified as an RVN in 2024. Mia is passionate about patient care, particularly pain management and rehabilitation of orthopaedic and spinal patients. She always strives to advance her knowledge and is planning to undertake a certificate in physiotherapy in 2026. At home, Mia looks after her two cats Bonnie and Huggles and is currently training her New Forest Pony, called Forest, for riding.Administration Staff
Gail Birkin
Gail joined us in March 2025 having previously worked as a receptionist at a busy local veterinary practice for 3 years. Gail has always worked in a customer service background and enjoys interaction with clients and especially animals. She is currently working towards British Veterinary Receptionist Association (BVRA) qualifications and looking forward to learning more about orthopaedic and spinal surgery referrals. Gail also worked as a foster carer for several years and has 2 grown up children, 3 dogs and a husband.Alison Salter
Alison joined our team in 2024 to oversee the accounts office. She is also involved in the day to day general management of the practice. At homes she cares for her dog Dexter and Donald the runner duck.