Dr Bruce Irvine-Smith is our esteemed founder.

Matriculating in 1960 from K.E.S and enrolling at the University of Pretoria for Veterinary Science, Dr Bruce graduated in 1965 and joined Sandown Veterinary Hospital as an assistant, running the after-hours emergency service. After two years, he left to travel and practice in Ireland and Britain during 1967 – including a few months at Cornell University.

On returning to RSA, he joined Dr G Frost in Randburg. He decided to start his own small animal high-quality practice with his brother, Dr Craig, who qualified a year after him. The current building was completed and opened in 1970, the original design having been done by Dr Bruce’s father, Charles Irvine-Smith. Dr Bruce’s passion for surgery led him to obtain his Small Animal Specialist’s Surgery Degree in 1976.

The practice grew steadily over the years and, with additions to the original building and vast improvements in facilities, equipment, and services, it now offers a modern, well-equipped small animal first-opinion and referral veterinary service. Until his well-deserved retirement in 2015, Dr Bruce was in partnership with his son, Dr Greg, Dr Remo Lobetti, and Dr Chris Collie. Even in retirement, he remained a cherished part of the BVH family, occasionally visiting the practice to the delight of staff and colleagues.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr Bruce’s interests evolved from squash to road cycling and mountain biking, with his later passion being wildlife photography. He enjoyed spending time in the Kruger National Park with his loved ones, and his captivating photography continues to grace the walls of BVH. Dr Bruce Irvine-Smith passed away in 2025, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of excellence, mentorship, and compassion that continues to shape our practice today.