Non-Profit Programs

All Fantastic Beasts clinics use a unique model that blends traditional veterinary care and non-profit programs. 2 of our 3 divisions function on a not-for-profit basis. This means that all of our clinics are effectively 2/3 non-profit.

The main goal of our non-profit programs is to increase veterinary accessibility on Vancouver Island. 

Did you know that according to a July 2025 PetSmart survey, half of Canadian pet parents (50%) have recently faced barriers to accessing needed veterinary care? Among them, 31% visited a veterinarian but were unable to proceed with recommended treatment, and 19% did not access veterinary care at all.

The Veterinary Accessibility Crisis

The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association has formally declared reduced access to veterinary care is the #1 animal welfare issue in Canada today.

“Barriers to accessing veterinary care have created a crisis that is negatively impacting animal health and welfare”

More Info

Learn more about the Veterinary Accessibility Crisis through PetSmart Charities research here

What do we mean by "Veterinary Accessibility" and "Access to care"?

The CVMA defines ‘access to veterinary care’ as the sustained condition of having the:

  • economic
  • physical
  • social
  • mental
  • and emotional

 

resources necessary to benefit from the services of a trusted veterinary service provider

What are the most common bariers to accessing veterinary care?

The trend toward reduced access to care is a complex and multi-factorial problem. Most sources separate these factors into at least 2 categories.

  1. Community/Individual Factors, such as
    • Finances
    • Geography (physical distance)
    • Language and Cultural differences
  2. Veterinary Factors, such as
    • Shortage of veterinary professionals
    • Increased patient load
    • Availability of after-hours care

How Fantastic Beasts is facing the Accessibility Crisis Head-on

The Fantastic Beasts Vet

MISSION STATEMENT

To increase access to veterinary care for all animals in our local community through a spectrum of care approach and non-profit partnerships.

Fantastic Beasts was built on a revolutionary premise — use the strength of a high-quality clinic to fund the programs that serve the animals and people who need help most.

Sustainably.

By design.

Everyday clients help support this model through donations to the pet foodbank, small contributions to the Pawsitive Care Fund, or simply by spreading the word. Every dollar spent in our traditional clinic helps close the accessibility gap on the island.

The Fantastic Beasts 3-tier model and blend of traditional and non-profit work is one of the first of it's kind in Canada.

We’re always happy to talk about veterinary accessibility and our unique programs. Call us today to find our more!

Contact Us

Karen Hoard

Karen’s love for companion animals and their care started at a young age – she first began volunteering with the SPCA at age 7. Over the years, she has been the proud caretaker to hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, salt and freshwater fish, a dozen cats and two beloved dogs. Karen was the manager of Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital from 2011 – 2018 and manager and dog trainer at Best Paw Forward Dog Training from 2015  – 2021. Karen currently shares her home with her husband and their two cats, Miizou and Hezekiah, and their rescue dog, Cypress. In her spare time, Karen’s primary passion is hiking, but she also enjoys gardening, reading, cooking, and anything sci-fi. 

Sarah Yaredic

Sarah has worked in veterinary medicine for almost 10 years. She has spent time working in both general practice and emergency medicine. While Sarah enjoys the critical thinking, fast pace and thrill of emergency medicine, she also loves spending time with the patients that come in for routine care, and learning their quirks and unique personalities. 
 
When not at work, Sarah loves spending time with her family. Sarah has a few hobbies, such as embroidery, painting and reading, that she likes to do when she has a few quiet moments to herself.

Valina Zanetti

I am a recent graduate of Douglas College’s Veterinary Technology Diploma Program and I am currently working as a Veterinary Technician. I’ve been in the field for a few years, starting as a Veterinary Receptionist before moving into my current role. I live with my partner and our two cats, Shadow and Bai Bai. In my free time, I enjoy watching media, reading, cooking, and dabbling in various crafts (even if I’m not very good at them!). I recently moved back to Vancouver Island to be closer to family and friends.

Laura Revane

Laura, an RVT since 2015, enjoys providing thoughtful care for the many fluffy personalities we work with and always strives for a low stress, positive clinic experience. An animal fanatic for life, when not working, Laura likes spending her days playing with her horses and napping on the couch with her cats.

Sarah Christensen

Sarah’s love for animals began at a very young age, and from the moment she could imagine a career, she knew it would be one devoted to their care and wellbeing. In 1999, she attended West Coast College of Healthcare, where she became a Certified Veterinary Assistant, marking the start of a lifelong journey in veterinary medicine.

Through years of hands-on experience, Sarah expanded her skills well beyond her formal training. She was mentored on the job to become a veterinary technician and gained extensive experience in reception, administration, and clinic management. This well-rounded background allows her to see veterinary care from every angle, with a deep understanding of both patient needs and the importance of compassionate, clear communication with clients.

After moving to Vancouver Island in 2014, Sarah discovered her passion for emergency medicine, where her calm presence, strong clinical skills, and dedication to patient care truly shine. She takes great pride in advocating for animals and supporting their families during some of their most stressful moments.

Outside of the clinic, Sarah embraces the West Coast lifestyle. On her days off, she can often be found riding her Harley or dirt bike, tending to her expansive vegetable and fruit garden, swimming in the ocean, or simply floating and soaking in the coastal calm. She cherishes time spent on Lasqueti Island with her large, wonderful family and loves being at home with her partner, daughter, two dogs, and five cats. Sarah’s life, both inside and outside the clinic, is guided by compassion, balance, and a deep respect for animals and the people who love them.

Jill Harrison

Dr. Jill Harrison has been practicing on Vancouver Island since 2014, and graduated Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 2010. With a strong clinical interest in both surgery and internal medicine, Dr. Harrison brings expertise and dedication to every case she handles.

Her passion for veterinary medicine is matched only by her love for her cat, Talulah Rhododendron Jones, who holds a very special place in her heart. When she’s not caring for patients at the clinic, Dr. Harrison can be found exploring her love of the ocean through scuba diving and kayaking, embracing the natural beauty of British Columbia’s coastal waters.

Known for her tremendous compassion and commitment to both her patients and their families, Dr. Harrison strives to provide the highest standard of care and works tirelessly to ensure every animal receives the attention and treatment they deserve. Her warm, empathetic approach makes her a trusted partner in your pet’s health and well-being.  

Moira Reilly

Originally from Saskatoon, Dr Moira has dreamed of becoming a veterinarian since childhood. That dream took her all the way to Perth, Western Australia, where she earned her veterinary degree from Murdoch University in 2017. 

With experience living on three different continents, Moira brings a unique global perspective to her work. She shares her home with Ivy, her beloved labrador, and two rescue cats, Ripley and Roo- both of whom made the journey with her from Saskatoon.

Moira is passionate about all aspects of veterinary care, but she’s especially at home in the surgery suite. Performing procedures in our state-of-the-art surgical facilities is one of her favourite parts of the job. Her love for animals, dedication to their well-being, and warm, compassionate approach make her an invaluable part of our team.

Marwan Abdulhaleem

Dr Marwan is a dedicated veterinarian with many year of experience caring for pets in Egypt and Dubai before bringing his expertise to Parksville. Passionate about providing compassionate, high-quality care, he is skilled in treating both chronic and acute conditions, as wel as performing a range of surgical procedures. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, writing, and making music.

Marwan is an internationally trained vet, with seven years of working experience. While completing the process of licensure in Canada, he works under direct supervision.