Meet Your Pet Care Team

Dr. Liza Lackner

Liza Lackner was born in scenic Richmond, BC, and raised in Steveston. A granddaughter of the city's first farmers, she has deep roots in the community and continues to call Steveston home, where she lives with her family.

Liza's deep 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. After earning her Bachelor of Veterinary Science in December of 2008, Liza joined the Seafair Animal Clinic team in 2010, and has been privileged to care for multiple generations of pets in the Richmond community.

A member of the Canadian Animal Assistance Team (CAAT), an organization that provides much-needed veterinary services to low-income communities, Liza's clients at CAAT and at Ironwood/Seafair will tell you that she is as passionate about the animals she treats and strives to provide the highest standard of veterinary care for each and every furry patient.

Dr. William McAleese

Dr. William McAleese grew up in County Meath, Ireland, surrounded by animals in the countryside. He graduated from the 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 Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and skiing, appreciating British Columbia's scenery — and its familiar Irish-esque weather.

Dr. Joseph Martinez

I was born to Italian parents who immigrated from Sicily and grew up on an isolated farm in the harsh wilderness of Israel’s Negev Desert.

Growing up in this remote environment nurtured my appreciation for nature and a deep fascination with desert wildlife, from insects and tarantulas to reptiles and mammals. Observing and interacting with these creatures inspired my childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian, turning my love of animals into a profession dedicated to their well-being and the people who care for them.

My connection with animals went beyond fascination. At the age of ten, I chose to become vegan, guided by an early understanding that animals are sentient beings. This deep respect for animals has remained central to who I am.

Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving. I believe being a good exotic specialty veterinarian requires passion, curiosity, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to lifelong learning. These qualities continue to make my profession both engaging and rewarding.

Outside my professional life, I volunteer with non-profit organizations and support pet owners facing challenging circumstances. I also enjoy tending to my organic garden and travelling, which keep me connected to nature and the world around me.