Westport Veterinary Clinic wishes its longest-serving team member, Gail, a happy retirement.

The team recently celebrated Gail's long-standing service, and bid an emotional farewell on 30th June as Gail heads off to enjoy her well-earned retirement.

Gail started working at Westport Veterinary Clinic in 1988, beginning her career before some of the current team were born!

Gail says:
"My role back then was receptionist/nurse when we didn't have the qualified staff we have today. Helen Porteous interviewed me, she asked if I had experience with animals, so I replied, "I have a Rottweiler," and I got the job! I helped out with basic ops, taking blood samples from pets and also some emergencies if extra help was needed. Handling snakes, cats, dogs, deer, wild birds and more. Moving forward, my role as Receptionist has improved massively due to more modern technology and learning new skills all the time."

What have you enjoyed the most?

Gail says:
"I love chatting to our clients and being with them through their pets' journey, from young to old. I've also loved having some hands-on experience and getting lots of cuddles!"

Gail has been an active member in the South Queensferry's community during her time with Westport Vets. She's visited schools and nurseries to educate children on life at the veterinary practice, gets involved in the South Queensferry Fair Day, helps with open days, charity events and fundraising. She took part in the Looney Dook in 2020 and the Pirate Rowing event at the marina in 2023.

What has changed the most during your 38-year career?

Gail says:
"It's hard to find the words but what can I say? After 38 years being with Westport, seeing all the changes and where the practice is today. The practice has grown immensely and improved so much due to new management and a great team of experts in their fields, which in turn offers our clients the best care for their pets."

"I think old David Porteous would be proud to see all the changes now."

Westport Veterinary Clinic is an independent practice. It originally started as a 'mixed practice' with branches in Linlithgow and South Queensferry, where David Porteous was Head Vet for over 30 years. Current owner, Director and Senior Vet, Stuart McMorrow, took over the practice in 2012. 

In 2013 it changed from a mixed practice to a small animal practice. In 2018 Westport Veterinary Clinic aquired Capital Vets in South Queensferry and Drumbrae Vets in Edinburgh, and moved their South Queensferry branch into larger (current) premises at The Loan. In 2023 the Linlithgow branch moved from its original small practice into their (current) custom-built large premises in Mill Road Industrial Estate.

In 2025 they started their own out-of-hours emergency service 'Westport 24' which operates out of the Linlithgow branch, offering 24-hour care when their other branches are closed. This year, 2026, they opened a fourth branch in Winchburgh.

Director of Operations Fiona Leathers says:
"Some people do a job. Others become part of the very fabric of a place. For 38 years, Gail has been exactly that. She has been the heart of South Queensferry - our practice mammy, the person who quietly looked after everyone else, whether that meant a listening ear, wise advice, a bacon roll on a hectic morning, or simply knowing exactly what someone needed before they even asked. She has shared our happiest moments, carried us through our hardest ones, and held more confidences than any diary ever could."

Gail's bubbly persona and larger than life character will not only be missed by her colleagues, but also by the clients she has helped, supported, laughed with, and cried with over the years.

Westport Vets client, Carol Miller, says:
"What an asset to Westport Vets, Gail. She always makes time to go out of her way to help. She has helped me as a dog mum and friend on numerous occasions. I will miss our chats lovely lady, but I will see you out walking our furries no doubt. Thank you for your patience and encouragement over the years. Hope you have a fabulous retirement."

Gail says:
"I have loved my job, the diversity and challenges, and the great team of people who become like family - which is why I find it hard to let go. But moving forward I need to do more partying and travelling. Especially with our motorhome."

Westport Vets' Director and Senior Vet, Stuart McMorrow, says:
"I have loved working with Gail over the years. She is such an awesome team member who has always been there to offer support. The team will miss her, the clients will miss her, and I will miss her. I hope she continues being a bit wild and has an amazing retirement!"

Gail's advice for the current and future team members:
"Be kind and support each other, just as our pets give unconditional love. Stuart, you have an amazing team."

Fiona Leathers says:
"While retirement marks the end of an extraordinary 38-year career, the impact Gail has had on all of us will remain for many years to come. She leaves behind not just a role, but a legacy of kindness, compassion, and unwavering support. Thank you, Gail, for everything. You will always be part of the Westport family."