The Team

The Ironwood team is a diverse group of veterinary professionals who share a love for animals and the expertise to care for them.

Dr. Liza Lackner (Owner)

Liza Lackner was born in Richmond, B.C. and raised in Steveston. Her love for animals drew her to Veterinary Medicine, and her dual Canadian/Australian citizenship led her to study at the University of Melbourne in Australia. She received her Bachelor of Veterinary Science in December of 2008 and joined the Seafair Animal Clinic team in 2010. Liza also is a member of the Canadian Animal Assistance Team (CAAT), an organization that provides much needed veterinary services to low-income communities. Liza is passionate about the animals she treats and strives to provide the highest standard of veterinary care for each patient.

Dr. Emily Russ (DVM)

Emily Russ grew up in rural Alberta, where her love for veterinary medicine began working with farm animals and horses. She earned her veterinary degree from the University of Calgary and has since focused her practice on small animal medicine.

Emily is passionate about building strong relationships with clients and creating personalized care plans for each pet. Outside the clinic, she enjoys running, hiking, and spending time outdoors.

Dr. Russ works full-time between both locations and looks forward to meeting you and your pets.

Dr. William McAleese (DVM)

Dr. William McAleese grew up in County Meath, Ireland, surrounded by animals in the countryside. He graduated from University College Dublin in 2023 and began his career in mixed practice, working with companion animals, farm animals, and horses before moving to Canada. He brings a well-rounded clinical background and a calm approach to patient care. Outside the clinic, William enjoys playing GAA and skiing, and appreciates British Columbia’s scenery — and its familiar Irish-esque weather.