

A privately owned companion and exotic animal veterinary practice
Established in 2024, we are a new practice aspiring to grow alongside our community.
Our Mission
At Warmland Animal Clinic, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, integrative veterinary care for the cherished pets of Lake Cowichan and beyond. Through a balanced approach of advanced medical treatments and holistic wellness practices, we empower pet owners with choices that support lifelong health and happiness for their companions.
Our Vision
To become a trusted, self-sustaining cornerstone of the Lake Cowichan community; a place where pets receive exceptional care, families find support and education, and the well-being of animals is nurtured through both modern medicine and time-honored healing traditions.
Our Values
- Compassion First: Every pet and client is treated with empathy, kindness, and understanding.
- Integrative Healing: We believe in the power of combining modern medicine with holistic care to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Community Commitment: We exist to serve and strengthen the Lake Cowichan community, creating a legacy of care that lasts generations.
- Education & Empowerment: We share knowledge openly, helping pet owners make informed decisions about their pets’ health.
- Excellence in Care: From routine checkups to advanced diagnostics and surgery, we are committed to the highest standards of veterinary medicine.
- Sustainability & Growth: We build a practice that nurtures its people, supports its community, and evolves to meet future needs.
- Team Development & Success: We believe that when our team thrives, our community thrives. By supporting the personal and professional growth of every staff member, we foster a culture of learning, advancement, and pride in the care we provide.
A Unified Team with Unique Talents
Rooted in Veterinary Care. Enriched by Individual Strengths.

Dr. Carmen Bell
Practice Manager & VeterinarianFounder of Warmland Animal Clinic, Carmen brings a unique integrative approach to veterinary medicine, blending cutting-edge treatments with holistic wellness. She holds a graduate diploma in Veterinary Western Herbal Medicine and earned her veterinary degree from the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom in 2015. Dr. Bell believes that optimal health comes from treating the whole animal and not just the illness.

Dr. Matthew Guenther
Medical Director & VeterinarianWith a calm presence and a wealth of knowledge, Matthew makes both pets and their people feel at ease. Graduating from the University of Melbourne in Australia in 2013, Dr. Guenther brings advanced skills to our team; he has a special interest and additional training in ultrasonography and emergency medicine. He is passionate about providing comprehensive, high-quality care. When he's not in the clinic you'll likely find him exploring the outdoors and spending time with his family.

Rhiannon
Office ManagerThe engine behind our smooth operations, Rhiannon keeps the clinic running like a well-oiled machine. She brings years of veterinary management experience and an impressive depth of knowledge in veterinary medicine. Her organizational skills are legendary, and her warm smile helps create the welcoming atmosphere we're known for. When she's not keeping everything on track she's enjoying life on her hobby farm, caring for her own little menagerie of happy animals.

Keely
Registered Veterinary TechnologistKeely brings a wealth of experience and calm confidence to the Warmland team. With a strong background in emergency medicine and anesthesia, she is a leader in the treatment area. Her technical skills are top-tier, but it's her ability to make pets feel at ease that really sets her apart. Friendly, efficient, and endlessly capable, Keely ensures your pet is in the best of hands. Outside of the clinic she enjoys life with her family and beloved pets.

Samantha
Veterinary Technologist In-TrainingKnown as the heart of the clinic, Sam brings a warm, fun and uplifting energy wherever she goes. With several years in the industry, she started as a veterinary receptionist before chasing her lifelong dream of becoming a registered veterinary technician. Now deep into her training and set to finish in December 2025, Sam is a massive asset to the clinic. She's a natural with pets, a favorite among clients, and her bright spirits is inspirational. When Sam's around, good vibes follow!

Mckenzie
Lead Veterinary AssistantMcKenzie is a powerhouse of hands-on knowledge and quiet dedication. She began her clinic journey in Saskatchewan, continued her path in Alberta, and has now brought her passion and experience to Vancouver Island. McKenzie is planning to enroll in the distance learning veterinary technician program soon, but her depth of knowledge already rivals many in the field. With a passion for exotic pets and small furries- and a home full of them- she's a versatile and deeply caring team member with a bright future ahead.

Sarah
Veterinary AssistantSarah has been with Warmland Animal Clinic since day one. Quiet and thoughtful, she's a steady presence who's grown immensely since the beginning. Now known as our behind-the-scenes multitasking queen, Sarah keeps the clinic running smoothly in countless ways. Though she's soft-spoken, her presence in the clinic is strong, stready, and invaluable. She has a natural ability to anticipate what needs to be done and is always right there when someone needs a hand.

Carley
Veterinary Assistant & ReceptionistCarley is the newest addition to our team! With experience in both veterinary clinics and the SPCA, Carley is passionate about animal welfare and community involvement. She's excited to bring her skills and compassionate nature to Warmland Animal Clinic, helping both behind the scenes and up front with our clients.

Theresa
ReceptionistTheresa brings a special kind of sweetness to our front desk- literally and figuratively. Known for her kindness and thoughtful nature, she often spoils the team with her delicious home-baked treats. She's always looking out for everyone's well-being and makes sure both clients and their pets feel completely at home. Theresa makes the clinic feel like a second home for clients and staff. She has a deep love for animals and takes care of two beloved malamutes.

Patty
ReceptionistPatty brings a strong background in pharmacy to the front desk, giving her a sharp eye for detail and a natural understanding of medical processes. Organized, dependable, and thoughtful, she transitioned smoothly into veterinary care and has quickly become a key part of the team. With years of customer service experience in the local community, she offers familiarity and trust with every client interaction. Off the clock, Patty enjoys life with her family.
Veterinary Professionals. Distinct Perspectives. One Incredible Crew.
We're proud of the work we do- but even prouder of the trust we've earned.

Warmland is by far the best veterinary clinic I've been too. The staff are all extremely kind, caring and knowledgeable. I really feel they go that extra mile to make us and our pup feel at ease.
Exceptional!

Very knowledgeable and service was top notch. Drove an hour but was worth it and will definitely be going there in the future.
Super Amazing

My big meat head needed to have a very large and uncomfortable growth removed from his eye. They were able to get him in asap after trying to get him in to numerous other vets, they were knowledgeable and took me step by step through the whole procedure.
Definitely Recommended!

Easy to find in Lake Cowichan with lots of parking. Very welcoming front lobby and waiting room. The two receptionist were very helpful and pleasant. The doc was great. She has a way with dogs that some vets do not. Definitely will go back.
Great Place!

All the staff members that we interacted with were warm and friendly. The staff accommodated my anxious girl and even checked to make sure the coast was clear as she can be leash reactive. Their prices were actually reasonable as well.
Absolutely wonderful vet!

It was a great experience for my dog, he got a great check up and he just loved it, and all the staff he met. What a great addition to Lake Cowichan. Beautifully remodeled building too.