Locations 
Dr Mark Owens
BVSc BASc (Hons)
After completing a Bachelor of Wildlife Science with honours in 2010, Dr Mark went on to graduate from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 2016. Immediately following graduation, Dr Mark relocated to the North of England, where he practised as a small animal and exotics veterinarian in a busy mixed practice. This experience facilitated his pursuit of a General Practitioner Certificate in Exotic Animal Practice and gave him valuable exposure to various exotic companion animals and zoological species. Mark especially enjoyed his time in the UK working with Mediterranean Tortoises, Tegus, Chinchillas and a number of different bird of prey species within the falconry industry.
Mark has also been lucky enough to have worked with several zoos during his career, such as the Northumberland Zoo, Kirkley Hall Zoo, and Ipswich Nature Centre. In 2021, Mark rejoined the University of Queensland as a veterinarian within the Avian and Exotics department at the UQ Gatton teaching hospital, focusing exclusively on the care of exotic pets and wildlife.
Dr Mark’s dedication to improving exotic animal health has culminated in the establishment of the Gold Coast’s first exclusively exotic veterinary clinic. This initiative addresses a critical need for specialised care, allowing him further to advance the treatment and well-being of these unique animals.
Hobbies and Interests
Relocating to the Gold Coast allows Dr Mark to be closer to family and enjoy the coastal lifestyle. He is a regular at the Palm Beach/Currumbin Creek dog park with his dogs, Dale and Douglas. Dr Mark also pursues his interest in ornithology and bird watching when he can and hopes to share this passion with his son.
Owned Pets
In addition to Marks two canine companions, Dale and Douglas, controversially, Mark’s household also includes two cats; Wilson and Misty, which presents practical challenges alongside his desire to one day have a companion parrot.
