Always kind, respectful, and approachable.
Encourages innovative and creative solutions.
Encourages students to explore new ideas.
Christine Heyward serves as a Lecturer in Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care within the School of Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch University in Perth, Western Australia. Her primary academic discipline is Veterinary Medicine. She completed her veterinary degree at the University of Adelaide, graduating in 2016. Following graduation, she commenced her career at a 24-hour small animal hospital, building essential clinical experience. She advanced her specialization through an emergency and critical care internship in Melbourne and subsequently completed a residency in small animal emergency and critical care at The Animal Hospital at Murdoch University. In 2025, she passed her board examinations, attaining Diplomate status with the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (DACVECC).
In her position at Murdoch University, Dr. Heyward engages in comprehensive clinical work at The Animal Hospital, conducts research, and delivers instruction to veterinary students, residents, and interns. Her academic interests and research specializations encompass immunology and microbiology, contributing to advancements in veterinary critical care. A notable publication is her 2022 paper, 'Characteristics and outcomes of dog attacks to dogs and cats in Melbourne, Australia: A retrospective study of 459 cases (2018),' which examines injury patterns and treatment outcomes in veterinary emergency contexts. As a board-certified specialist and educator, she plays an integral role in training the next generation of veterinarians in emergency and critical care practices and supports the school's mission in veterinary education and clinical excellence.
