
Diagnostics

Orthopedic Surgery

Medical Imaging

Soft Tissue Surgery
At East Coast Veterinary Specialists, we are more than just a specialist clinic
We are more than just a specialist clinic — we are a privately owned, locally operated veterinary practice on the Sunshine Coast, led by a highly experienced specialist veterinarian who understands the complexity of patient care, outcomes, and finances.
We provide the most advanced treatments and surgeries, tailoring care to the individual needs of each pet. We also openly discuss alternative options, ensuring owners can make informed decisions that suit both their pet and their circumstances.
We understand the importance of working closely with your local veterinarian. With long-standing relationships with many Sunshine Coast vets, we actively discuss cases to ensure the best treatment options are selected. If travel is a concern, we can provide post-operative care in collaboration with your local vet, with regular updates to monitor your pet’s recovery and progress.
Your trusted specialist animal clinic in the Sunshine Coast
Direct communication is at the heart of our service. Owners have personal mobile access to the specialist veterinarian, ensuring questions, updates, and guidance are always available throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. We treat each patient and owner as partners in care — not just a number — and provide compassionate, professional attention to every detail.
Meet The Team
Our lead veterinarian has deep local experience and the longest-standing specialist support on the Sunshine Coast, having worked with many clinics and local communities over the years. This ensures a unique understanding of local needs, allowing us to build genuine clinic-client relationships with flexibility, support, and care at its core.
Our Speciality Services
Spinal & Orthopaedic Surgery
At East Coast Veterinary Specialists, we provide advanced spinal and orthopaedic surgery with a focus on exceptional patient care, personalised attention, and clear communication.
All surgical cases are managed by an experienced veterinary surgical specialist, supported by a dedicated nursing team. Our small, cohesive practice ensures that every team member is closely involved in each patient’s care, prioritising comfort, safety, and optimal functional recovery throughout diagnosis, surgery, and hospitalisation.
Owners and referring veterinarians have direct mobile access to the specialist surgeon, allowing open discussion and regular updates throughout treatment and recovery.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture & Medial Patella Luxation
At our specialist veterinary clinic we provide advanced surgical treatment for cranial cruciate ligament rupture and medial patella luxation. Our dedicated specialist surgeon and experienced orthopaedic team perform these procedures three to four times every week, delivering consistently excellent outcomes.
We offer an efficient service with the option for same-day consultation and surgery when appropriate. Each patient is supported by a highly trained nursing team and a structured recovery program, including collaboration with a canine physiotherapist to optimise rehabilitation.
Fracture Repair
We provide expert fracture repair and orthopaedic surgery for pets with broken bones. Craig brings extensive experience and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accurate assessment, precise alignment, and stable fixation.
Using advanced surgical techniques and equipment, we offer a range of treatment options—from cost-effective approaches to the latest fixation methods, including plates, screws, pins, and external fixators. Each option is discussed openly with owners and referring veterinarians, including benefits, considerations, and expected outcomes.
Post-operative care and follow-up are central to recovery. Our team provides clear guidance and specialist support throughout rehabilitation.
BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) Surgery
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) affects many short‑nosed dog breeds, including French Bulldogs, Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers and others, causing noisy breathing, snoring, exercise intolerance, overheating and respiratory distress due to narrowed nostrils and elongated soft palate. BOAS can also contribute to secondary airway changes over time if left untreated.
At our specialist veterinary clinic, we focus on surgical correction of BOAS with experienced specialist surgeons and a dedicated team. Corrective procedures such as widening the nostrils (alarplasty), shortening the soft palate and removing obstructive tissue improve airflow, reduce respiratory effort and can significantly enhance your dog’s breathing and quality of life. Early intervention often leads to better long‑term outcomes and may slow or prevent progression of secondary airway problems.
Many owners report improved energy, reduced snoring and more comfortable exercise tolerance after surgery—helping pets enjoy walks, play and everyday life with less strain on their breathing.
We use the most up‑to‑date techniques and maintain a calm, low‑stress environment to support peaceful recovery. Where clinically appropriate, we offer consultation, surgery and same‑day discharge, allowing your dog to return home with you as soon as it’s safe. Our team collaborates closely with you on pre‑operative planning and post‑operative care to ensure the best possible experience.
Endoscopy Services
Our endoscopy services provide minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment options for pets. Procedures include rhinoscopy, bronchoscopy, gastroscopy, and other scope-based interventions to manage respiratory, gastrointestinal, and other internal conditions.
Using state-of-the-art equipment, our procedures reduce discomfort, speed recovery, and deliver precise results. Patients are cared for in a calm, professional, and compassionate manner, with direct communication available to owners and referring veterinarians throughout diagnosis, procedures, and recovery.
Oncology
We offer comprehensive veterinary cancer care, including surgical tumour removal, chemotherapy, and non-surgical treatments. Our team specialises in mast cell tumours, spindle cell soft tissue sarcomas (STS), and complex thoracic and abdominal procedures.
Advanced diagnostics—including CT and ultrasound—support tailored treatment plans. Our small, dedicated team ensures personalised attention, clear guidance on treatment options and costs, and ongoing support for owners and referring veterinarians.
Transparent Surgical Pricing
We believe pet owners and referring veterinarians deserve clear and predictable pricing. For a number of common procedures we offer fixed pricing packages, allowing you to plan treatment with confidence.
Example Procedures:
Fixed Cost
IVDD Spinal Surgery – $5,500.00
TPLO Cruciate Surgery – $5,500.00
BOAS Surgery – $2,500.00
Packages include:
- Specialist surgery
- Diagnostic imaging (where relevant)
- Hospitalisation (day stay)
- Medications
Supporting Local Animal Rescues
At East Coast Veterinary Specialists, we are proud to partner with local animal rescue groups to provide reduced-rate specialist care for rescue patients. Our goal is to ensure every animal has access to expert diagnosis, treatment, and surgery while supporting the vital work of our rescue partners. Reflecting our commitment to both pets and the people who love them.
Trusted by Sunshine Coast Pets
EXCELLENT Based on 41 reviews Posted on Leanne GroomTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What an amazing experience…I can’t rate the team enough. They took all the stress out of my Frenchies surgery. Not only is the team professional but they genuinely care and love what they do. Highly recommendPosted on Bronnie DalyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was referred to Dr Craig Thompson at East Coast Veterinary Clinic by my regular vet whom I have 100% confidence in when it comes to looking after any one of my 4 fur babies. I adopted Draco 2.5 years ago when he was 5 years old and at his annual health check my vet discovered Draco’s patella was popping in and out, ‘subluxed patella’ , and on X-ray he saw Draco’s tibia was curved like a bow. He suggested I would need to see a specialised specialist, and sent a referral email to Dr Craig, who then also made the time to discuss Draco’s situation with my vet over the phone. Straight away I felt a sense of relief and confidence that I was being referred to a specialist who really cared about their patients. I arrived for my appointment, a bundle of nerves and extremely tearful and I was greeted by the most caring compassionate staff. Dr Craig took Draco and I through, did his examination and again explained the process from the CT Scan, through to the surgery, post op care and recovery period and expectations. He was gentle and kind and helped allay the many fears I had for Draco heading into surgery. I was kept informed of Draco’s progress throughout surgery by the delightful Emily who had greeted us in reception and then received a phone call from Dr Craig when Draco was in recovery to explain how well the surgery had gone. When I arrived to pick Draco up Dr Craig took me through to the imaging room and showed me Draco’s CT scan explaining everything in a language I was able to understand. At this point he advised me he had not operated on Draco’s tibia as it had been from an injury he would have sustained at about 8 months of age and he could not justify operating on it so little Draco only had the subluxed patella surgery to recover from. As you can see, Draco is 2.5 kg and his patella is extremely tiny, and in my opinion , only a surgeon with Dr Craig’s extensive expertise could operate on something so tiny. I was given Dr Craig’s after house mobile contact should I have any problems, which thankfully I did not have to use but it was so reassuring knowing I could call him should I need to. I cannot recommend Dr Craig and his team highly enough for expertise, compassion, empathy and being beautiful humans who genuinely care about you and your fur babies. I would definitely give East Coast Veterinary Specialists 10 stars if I was able. I am happy to report Draco has completely healed and is running and jumping around with the rest of the crew as if he had never had surgery. Thank you so much Dr Craig and your amazing team.Posted on K BTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Asher was referred to Craig in a last resort situation after 12 months of failed leg surgeries. In the very first consultation Craig acknowledged the huge roller coaster the previous 12 months had been - for me emotionally and for Asher physically. That seemingly small acknowledgement spoke volumes about the care and compassion that has been provided by Craig and his team throughout Ashers treatment. Craig operated the same day and we brought Asher home in a custom fitted leg brace, ready to start his recovery, feeling so much more hopeful for his future. The whole team at East Coast Veterinary Specialists have been beyond amazing throughout Ashers treatment and recovery! Over 10 weeks of weekly bandage changes we've built this wonderful relationship around the care and rehabilitation of Asher where no concern is too small, and everyone is as invested in seeing Asher recover as I am. The minute you walk through the door.. from reception to consultation to surgery to follow up care.. there is something genuinely special about how the clinic operates. Emily, Danielle, Dylan, Jo, Karen, Lottie, and especially Craig... your skill and expertise, your compassion, your availability, and your understanding & reassurances.. your clinic provides such a high level of care, both physically and holistically, and I am beyond grateful for all you have done. Thank you so much for giving Asher his best life back!Posted on Ash FTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our 3 year old Boston needed BOAS surgery & after extensive research, being recommended by our regular vet and other Boston owners we decided on Dr Craig. From the first phone call, I felt confident in my decision. The staff were extremely helpful & went above and beyond to answer all of my questions; Craig himself spent nearly 20 minutes on the phone talking through the surgery with me. I love his approach of having the dogs wake in their owners arms, we found our dog was so calm & settled. Our dog has recovered so well & we are already seeing the benefits! Would 10/10 recommend Craig. Also a shout out to all of the staff we came across, from phones calls to checking in at the front desk, everyone was honestly lovely.Posted on heidi loeveTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend Craig and the team at East Coast Veterinary Specialists. I have an anxious pooch and the entire team handle her with the utmost care, respect, and kindness. Dylan has to rate a mention also for his calm and reassuring approach when canulating my girl, without sedation!!! Summer's had 2 surgeries with Craig and recovered completely from both. A lower lumbar spinal setback also, where I was given options and outcomes to weigh up with affordability after 2 surgeries within 12 month. Then the spinal stenosis. She is making a sound recovery from her treatment for this also. At just 6 a week ago I'm confident she'll have a full and happy life ahead. We are forever grateful 🙏 Heidi and SummerPosted on Shelley SimonsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After adopting my greyhound, he sadly came with a broken leg in the strangest of places, which had happened years earlier with no treatment. Lucky for me - Craig and his team at east coast are outside of the literature thinkers, as I came to learn, greyhounds don’t have a lot of medical literature and are built like a paper kite made with toothpicks. Between the team, they came together with a plan that had his best interest at heart, Shadow was in a specially designed cast for 5 weeks (in which time I had the bandages changed, the vet team would always try to have fun with it. Even making him a candy cane for Christmas) 5 weeks later, a 3 year old break .. was healed! No surgery, no rehab, just patience and confidence the vets were all here for Shadows best outcome. From the front of house team to the back, everyone is delightful and happy to see you! I drove a 240KM round trip every Friday for 7 weeks, worth every KM.Posted on Jen MurrayTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Craig is truly the best veterinary specialist I have ever encountered. He is professional, dedicated, compassionate, and genuinely caring. His surgical skills are exceptional, and he is incredibly particular about both his work and the after‑care he provides. Craig and his team create an environment where you always feel welcome, supported, and confident that both you and your animals are being looked after with the highest level of care. Their prices are also very reasonable, especially compared to other specialists who can charge an arm and a leg. One of the things that impressed me most is Craig’s commitment to his patients beyond the clinic. He makes himself available after hours if you have concerns once you’re home. Living over an hour and a half away, this support meant the world to me—he helped guide me through everything until the next visit. I cannot recommend Craig and the entire team at East Coast Veterinary Specialists highly enough. They are truly outstanding.Posted on gae dTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional and caring service. After care and follow up excellent.Posted on Jodie RobertsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Craig was very empathetic and professional. He went above and beyond to reassure us our puppy was in safe hands and provided us with the best advice, hands down 5 stars!!!Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Contact East Coast Veterinary Specialists Caloundra
At East Coast Veterinary Specialists, we appreciate that every veterinary journey is personal, and we are dedicated to walking it with you, providing expert, compassionate, and attentive care for your pet every step of the way.
- admin@ecvs.net.au
- 1/2 Park Place, Caloundra, QLD 4551
- MON – FRI 8:30am – 5:30pm