Dr Izidora Sladakovic
BVSc (Hons I), MVS, DACZM - Board-certified specialist (ZCA)
Dr Izidora graduated from the University of Sydney in 2007 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (First Class Honours). After working in both exotics and general practices for several years, Izi completed a rotating internship at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) in Sydney and then joined Sydney Exotics and Rabbit Vets as an associate. She also obtained a Master of Veterinary Studies from Murdoch University.
In 2017, Izi completed a three-year zoological medicine residency, with a focus on exotic pets, at the University of Georgia, USA. She became a Diplomate of the American College of Zoological Medicine in 2017, passing the sub-specialty examination in zoological companion animals (ie. exotic pets). Izi is currently the only veterinarian in Australia to hold a qualification, and is a registered specialist in both Australia and USA. Izi is the owner and director of AVES, and is a Fear Free Certified® Professional.
Izi has published numerous journal articles and book chapters, undertaken research projects on diagnostic techniques in exotic pets, presented at various exotics conferences, and regularly contributes to the continuing education of vets and vet nurses. She was also integral in the development of an antibiotic policy for exotics.
Izi volunteers with the Sydney Wildlife Mobile Care Unit, providing veterinary care to injured and orphaned native wildlife.
Tori Allen
Certificate IV Veterinary Nurse, AVNAT Accredited, APVN (Avian)
Tori has been working in the veterinary industry since 2015. Tori loves working with all animals, but has a particular interest in exotics and Australian wildlife.
Tori joined AVES in February 2022 to further her nursing skills in the exotics field, which is where her real passion lies. Tori has also volunteered for wildlife rehabilitation groups since 2018 and recently completed a veterinary professional course with Taronga Zoo focusing on the treatment and care of native wildlife. In 2024, Tori successfully completed the Advanced Programme in Veterinary Nursing of Avian Species.
In her spare time, you will find her birdwatching, bushwalking, studying, spending time with her pets and gardening.
Graziella Subloo
Certificate IV Veterinary Nurse
Graziella has been in the veterinary industry since 2010, having worked at various general practices on the Northern Beaches. Ella has always had a passion for exotics and wildlife. She has completed a number of courses on wildlife care, and has volunteered with WIRES, Birdlife Australia and in a sperm whale field study in the Mediterranean Sea surrounding Italy.
Ella joined AVES in January 2025 and is enjoying nursing of exotic pets and expanding her already impressive clinical skillset.
In her spare time, Ella enjoys the beach, Pilates and spending time with her family and pets.
Susan Smith
BA (Marketing), MA (Psych) - Reception & Admin
Susan has vast experience in client services and information systems, having worked as an IT consultant and manager in the human healthcare field. Although she almost went down the road of becoming a psychologist, the animal calling was too strong!
Susan loves all animals and has been a volunteer with Sydney Wildlife for many years. She was integral in upgrading the Kukundi Flying Fox Rehabilitation Centre in Lane Cove National Park.
As a pet owner and wildlife rehabilitator, Susan deeply understands the impact of a human-animal bond and the importance of communication within a clinical veterinary setting. Susan is excited to join AVES and meet our wonderful clients and their adorable exotic pets.
What is Zoological Medicine?
Contrary to popular belief, zoological medicine is not equated with zoo animal medicine, but encompasses the following major areas:
- Exotic pets
- Zoo animals
- Aquatic animals
- Wildlife and conservation
Izidora has undergone extensive training and examination in all areas of zoological medicine, and is available for project work relating to zoo, aquatics and wildlife.
The American College of Zoological Medicine is currently the only college in the world to provide specialist certification in ALL exotic pets, a qualification that is held by a small number of veterinarians worldwide.
