Stronghold™ Veterinary Pet Care Awards 2007
The National Stronghold™ Veterinary Pet Care Awards invites
pet owners and members of the public to submit nominations by writing about the
care and work of their veterinary teams.
This year nominations were
received about a wide variety of pets and animals. Stories were written by pet owners as well as
by rescue centres and animal welfare organizations. Nominations were received for individual
veterinarians; for veterinary nurses and support staff; and for entire
veterinary practices.
The following is a selection
of nominations received from members of the public for 2007, which the judges feel give a flavour for the
very real stories behind the Awards.
These are presented in alphabetical order (by county) with an index
preceeding the full stories. The order
of presentation in no way relates to the results of the 2007 Awards.
The names and personal details
of the pet owners who submitted the nominations have deliberately not been
included here. Media enquiries to
Progress Communications tel 01-2766117 or
email info@progresspr.ie
Index
to Judge’s Selection
CLARE
Veterinary Service nominated:
Roseville Veterinary Clinic, Ennis Road,
Newmarket on Fergus, Co Clare – Vet Louis Hassett and vet nurse Trish Tel 061-368536
“What is special about
Veterinary Service nominated:
Aardveld Veterinary Clinic, Ballydehob,
Co
“She followed me everywhere
and indeed was my “very best” friend….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
“Following Homer’s death, Lisa
rang almost every day (at her own expense) to listen, sympathise, talk about
our beloved, loving dog……Without her unbelievable support and help it would
have been even more difficult than it has been to have lost him….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
“ I know without a shadow of a
doubt that my husband and I would not have been able to care with such an ill
dog without the knowledge that we had Lisa in support….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
“John saved Misty’s life. She now runs all over the place on 3 legs and
doesn’t even realise she is missing a leg.
….The accident hasn’t stopped Misty doing what any “4” legged dog
does. She even out-runs our other dog
Veterinary Service nominated:
“In April this year, Easter
bank holiday, Buddy became dangerously ill.
John still spent that weekend treating Buddy, and again the recovery was
miraculous. Always John would say “enjoy
the time you have left…..”
Veterinary Service nominated:
“I started my life as a feral…... I was foraging for food I got a chicken bone
stuck in my jaw. To paint the picture, I
was in (their) garden, bald and frothing at the mouth and submitting myself for
help (I am sure you will understand this is not easy for a cat). The people of the house referred to me as
that “skanky legged cat out the back”.
They also contacted the Animal Care Society and 2 mornings on the trot
before
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co
“My husband bought Sally Ann
for me for my 69th birthday in June, as he knew I wouldn’t stay alone in the
house without a dog (result of a stroke)……Today she barks when the phone rings
and I’m deaf and I go and answer it. The
door bell she barks again. I told Liam
the dog was my ears.”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co Cork – Vet Liam O’Reilly &
Barbara Tel 021-4613672
“I have lost my best friend
and most loyal companion……However I am happier in the knowledge that over his
final months he enjoyed himself without any pain or distress, and we were all
able to enjoy the extra time we had with him…..Bruce was a dog in a million and
in Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, he was treated as just that.”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9, Knockgriffin
Industrial Park, Midleton, Co
“Unkowns to me, she was struck
by a car on the main road causing her serious injury. The car failed to stop, but a kind lady and
her daughter, who were travelling behind, witnessed the accident and stopped to
attend to daisy. They were shocked at
what they had seen and at the distress of the dog…..Daisy was, and is, a part
of our family, who has brought warmth and love to enrich us all…”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co
“But the one nurse that stood
out for us was Yvonne. She just has a
loveliness and gentleness about her……Some things are hard to put into words but
when you come across someone who has a natural kindness, you don’t forget them…”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co
“I had to call them out at
Veterinary Service nominated:
Mackessy Veterinary Hospital, Demesne,Newmarket,
Co.Cork – vet Denis Mackessy Tel 029-60039
”I have a beautiful Bernise Mountain dog
named Libby…….I said she could be in pup……I was sick with worry and so were my
kids ….after Xraying her again he said he would operate straight away….my
kids and I left in tears.......He rang and said are you missing a baby ELEPHANT
and I said O MY God I know what you mean she had swallowed a soft teddy
elephant belonging to the kids............We are now awaiting the arrival of
her puppy ... and NOT A ELEPHANT... which is due this week PG.”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary Group/
Botanic Veterinary, 183 Botanic Rd., Glasnevin,
“Fintan was exceptionally
skilled, he researched the disease, treatment and outcome extensively. He was extremely patient, yet he was 100%
positive at all times.”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary Group/
Botanic Veterinary, 183 Botanic Rd., Glasnevin, Dublin 9 – Vets Fintan Browne,
Susan Barry and colleagues Maria Tel 01-8375543
“During the thirteen years
while I had Sammy (rescue cat) the team have been most helpful and
understanding. Sammy had many visits to
the practice. Particularly during the
past eighteen months…. “
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary Group/
Botanic Veterinary, 183 Botanic Rd., Glasnevin, Dublin 9 – Vet Michael Hatton
and all of the team Tel 01-8375543
“They actually have 3 clinics, we have used all - our
main one however is the Botanic Clinic. …..The practice has increased in size
over the last few years, but due to great management they have not lost that
homely and friendly manner. …”
Veterinary
Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary
Group/Clontarf Veterinary, 66 Malahide Road, Clontarf,
Tel 01 8330744
“They mix professionalism with
care both to my pet and the other visitors to the clinic.”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary
Group/Clontarf Veterinary,
“Some people are lucky enough
to win the lotto, but I am lucky to have the best veterinary practice in the
world right at my doorstep…”
Veterinary Service nominated:
The Animal Clinic, Ashton House,
“All the practice team but in particular
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animal Welfare Veterinary Hospital, 40 Charlemont
Street, Dublin 2 - John Hardy, Michael Brady, Paul Hurley and team Tel 01 6714303
”This is an exceptional practice, where
the emphasis is on care. Each vet…..displays the same attitude of kindness,
consideration and concern…”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animal Welfare Veterinary Hospital, 40 Charlemont Street,
Dublin 2 - John Hardy, Michael Brady, Paul Hurley, Suzie Mitchell, John, Hazel,
Grainne and team Tel 01 6714303
”She is very nervous at the visits. The vets have been very resourceful in
suggesting ways to relax her and ger her, her treatment, with tenderness and
understanding on an ongoing basis.”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Artane Veterinary Clinic,
…Her dream began, learning,
working and caring for animals on a daily basis. As she has a warm personality this shun
through to pet owners coming into the practice worried about their little pets…..
But in October 2002, her whole
world fell apart…..”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Blackrock Vetinary Clinic, 5 Proby Square, Carysfort Ave., Blackrock, Co Dublin – Vet Eamonn
Moore & Team Tel 01-2889641
“ …. So why the nomination? Well it seems
petty not to, when you think about it. After all, it's not Eamonn's fault that
the little sod hasn't tried to do himself in recently and Eamonn is still the
same considerate, patient and professional person he was two years ago…”
Veterinary
Service nominated:
Blackrock Vetinary Clinic, 5 Proby Square, Carysfort Ave., Blackrock, Co Dublin – Vet
Eamonn Moore Tel 01-2889641
“I know all owners think their dogs are
special, but Kruger really was an exceptionally loving, intelligent and gentle
dog who will be irreplacable…..
I cannot imagine how we would have dealt with Kruger's
passing if Eamonn had not been such a wonderful vet
. ….we knew he was, even in death, in the best hands
possible”.
Veterinary Service nominated:
Blackrock Vetinary Clinic, 5 Proby Square, Carysfort Ave., Blackrock, Co Dublin – Vet
Eamonn Moore Tel 01-2889641
“It is hoped that most people will have the
pleasure of loving someone or something at least once in their lifetime. I fell in love with a bitch called Lady…..
A dog of no exalted breed, no
particular beauty, became for ten years, in many respects, my reason d’etre.”
Veterinary Service nominated:
O'Scanaill Vet Hospital,
” …..I phoned Conor at
Veterinary Service nominated:
Priory Veterinary Clinic,
Tel 01 4513577
“One particular occasion was a litter of newly born puppies
that were fading no matter what we did. They arrived with extra heat
lamps and after countless visits administering fluid injections over many days
the pups made it through….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
UCD Equine Clinic, Veterinary Surgery Unit, Veterinary
Services Centre, UCD, Belfield, Dublin 4
- Florien Jenner (Lecturer),
Luanne Hunt (Surgery Resident),
Wilfried Schneeweiss (“Michael”) (Surgery Intern); and team
Tel 01 7166001
''Boo'' passed
away peacefully in his stable on 14th August, five months after his accident.
As far as we can tell he had a heart attack in his sleep and suffered no pain. He had recovered from his ordeal and spent
his last summer at home, with his friends and in his field. Without the staff
of UCD I doubt if he would have ended his days in such a quiet manner. Both
Florien and Luanne contacted us to express their sympathy at the passing of 'a
great character' and 'a real gentleman'….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
The
“Our
hamster Blanks was growing a tumour in his abdomen and it was getting bigger
very slowly……We considered the life expectancy of a hamster and Blanks age (2 ½
years), and thought if it was worth it or not to do it….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Tom Rennick Veterinary, Church View, Tuam , Co Galway-
Vet: Tom Rennick & colleague
Tel 093-24546
”Claddagh has a number of illness's
but I would not change him for the world neither would I change my vet….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Western Veterinary Clinic, Clifden Business
Park, Galway Rd., Clifden, Co
“He ran through broken glass
windows and the team led by Ronad (vet) saved his life and his leg with great
love, tender care and of course professional service…..”
KERRY
Veterinary Service nominated:
AllCare Veterinary Practice, Park Road,
Killarney, Co Kerry - Vets Danny O’Sullivan,
“….we were always met at the
vet practice promptly – even at Christmas and another time at
Veterinary Service nominated:
Hurley’s Veterinary Hospital, Brewery Road,
Tralee, Co Kerry – Patricia Somers and team
Tel 066-71297560
“When my dog Sonna was in his
last few weeks and his legs weren’t great and I myself was ill at the same
time, Patricia, one of the nurses, would call to my house daily and give Sonna
his medication and take him for a little walk….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Kenmare Veterinary Centre, Mart Road, Kenmare, Co.
Kerry - Henk Offeriens and team Tel 064
42695
”We recently lost our eldest dog, Baxter, who had been an animal
assisted therapy dog in the U.S…..”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Treacy & Sheehan, 25
Market Street, Listowel, Co Kerry - Vet Paul Treacy Tel 068-21377
“Tiny waddled his way along
our lawn during the hot summer of ’95.
He sipped water from the hose-pipe, looked up at us with his big liquid
eyes and shared our hearts and home for years to come…..
Last year, the week before
Christmas, he became lethargic then went off his food and water. We knew he was about 13 or 14 years and we
felt old-age was about to take him from us…..In two days he began deteroriating
more quickly and we tried to prepare ourselves for what would be a very, very
lonely Christmas without our little friend……..Paul Treacy will never know the
happiness he brought to us……He gave us the greatest Christmas gift we have ever
had – the gift of life of an old friend…”
KILDARE
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animals First Veterinary
Hospital, Links
Business Park, Kilcullen, Co Kildare – Vet: Rachel Gordon
Tel 045-480478
“Benson is getting older now
and has since been diagnosed with diabetes……He is almost blind now – it’s
amazing how they adapt. ….Benson has had two strokes since but thanks to Rachel
and Conor he has bounced back. He walks
every day out the Curragh and trots like a Clydesdale and when we go to Wexford
on holiday…..”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Newbridge Veterinary Clinic, Morristown,
Newbridge, Co Kildare - Mr D McHenry, Denis Hayes, Mrs S O’Leary, vet nurses Evelyn
Eustace and Yuliya Dmytriyeva (“Julia”) and team Tel 045-421555
“Our little rescue dog, Shep,
a collie of approx 2 years, life was saved after suffering near fatal injuries
following a vicious attack by no less than 5 dogs….. The
Newbridge staff said he was like a “patch-work quilt” when all his injuries
were bandaged…”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Vetcare,
” My cat, Granny……she went missing for a
while, and when she came home she had a snare around her body and her back leg
was hanging off….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Vet Care, Well Road,
Portlaoise, Co Laois – Vet Caroline Wallace Tel 057-8664841
“My little dog Trixie was
recently attacked by 4 other dogs. It
all happened so quickly but by the time I got to her she was covered in blood
and was in complete shock and was breathing very heavily….Her injuries were so
bad I didn’t think she would make it to the vets that night….”
LOUTH
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animal Health Veterinary Clinic, 5 St. Alphonsus Rd,
Dundalk, Co. Louth – Vet: Michael F. J Cahill
Tel 042-9357000
” ….. One evening while my owner was
preparing tea I was just on my way to get food and I had a terrible
confrontation with another four legged animal…..My paw was so bad that Michael
told me that I would need surgery and that he thought it may have been a fox….”
MAYO
Veterinary Service nominated:
Crossmolina Veterinary Clinic,
Chapel Street, Crossmolina, Co Mayo - Eamonn Connor, Vet Siobhan O’Malley, Vet
Nurse Julia Collins & Team Tel 096-31116
“My favourite and best spaniel
injured herself on barbed wire on the 6th May this year (bank
holiday weekend) and I was in the far west of Mayo in the Nephin Bog
mountains. A local farmer recommended
this veterinary practice to me and gave me the phone number….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Hanaghan Veterinary Hospital, Ballyvary , Co Mayo -
Vet: Runa Hanaghan, vet nurse Elisha Fahy & Team Tel 094-9289007
“When your animal is ill, no matter how minor, it's an
anxious time and I really can rest assured knowing that they are all in such
good hands….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Skeldale Veterinary Clinic, High Road, Ballinrobe, Co.
Mayo - Vet: Conal Finnerty, colleague Aisling Niland and team Tel 094 95 41980
“our cat Gustav…..is obsessed with technology, whether
it is computers, printers, TVs, DVD players, CD players, or whatever. Usually,
after one of his 'close observations' some part will not be working…… Unfortunately he also has FIV - but this
does not stop him in his plans, rather it offers further scope. There is so
much interesting and useful equipment in a veterinary surgery!”
Veterinary Service nominated:
DeLacy, Clancy and Kent, Clonmel
Road, Carrick on Suir, Co Tipperary – Vet Ger Clancy
Tel 051-641640
” ….He is the last of the Customs dogs to
be trained in
….Following a large drug seizure in a wooded area near
Dungarvan, Scamp ingested some cannabis as he tried to retreive packages. He
was on the verge of dying….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Mulcair Veterinary Clinic, Newport, Co Tipperary –
Vet: Sean Coffey Tel 061- 378113
” … The only thing that eases the pain of
losing a most beloved pet is knowing that she couldn't have been in better
hands…..”
WEXFORD
Veterinary Service nominated:
“….Then just 2 years ago Sam
was knocked down by a car. Of all the
dogs on our road she was watched 24 hours of the day – a real freak accident….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Gubbins & O Shea
Veterinary Centre,
Tel 053-9145755
“…..My heart was broken having
my toy poodle put to sleep at 15 ½ years of his love and constant
companionship, but Richard was wonderful about it all. …I’m an O.A.P. so a bit
of kindness goes a long way these days and my dogs mean everything to me….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Pet Vet,
Tel 051 445484
“Having
a pet shapes your life and your lifestyle for the duration of their lives with
us. Anyone who has ever had and loved a pet will understand the sadness that is
involved when their pet dies….”
Veterinary Service nominated:
Pet Vet,
“…..To Caroline who on
WICKLOW
Veterinary Service nominated:
Bairbre O’Malley Veterinary
Hospital, Kilmaintain
Place, Bray, Co Wicklow – entire team
Tel 01-2723857
„....Four years ago this month, two boys would enter our
lives – Del Boy and Rodney, two red eared terrapins…..As their name suggests,
they were a comical pair, the boys were “rescued” as their previous owner
received a new go-kart for Christmas and had lost interest in his terrapins……. “
Veterinary Service nominated:
Cloverhill Veterinary, Glenealy,
Co Wicklow - Vet Gillian Hick, colleague
Nicola and team
Tel 0404-44505
…She is not only an excellent
vet, she is the most compassionate, considerate and caring person I know. She is part friend and social worker….”
Judge’s Selection
2007 Stronghold Veterinary Pet Care Awards
CLARE
Veterinary Service nominated:
Roseville Veterinary Clinic, Ennis Road,
Newmarket on Fergus, Co Clare – Vet Louis Hassett and vet nurse Trish Tel 061-368536
Reason for Nomination:
There was something about
As time passed and Setanta became a lively handful that we now recognise
as typical of the breed, the welcome was no less warm. Caradh the cat followed last year and Anakin
this year…each visit a flurry of small children and animals that one might
imagine would be disconcerting for the professionals…On the contrary, we felt
at ease on every visit, and it was a special treat for the children.
The reason I have put pen to paper essentially is to commend Louis and
Trish on their sincere empathy with me on my father’s recent diagnosis of
cancer. In the blurr following the bad
news I missed appointments or cancelled at the last minute. It was then I was made aware of the quiet
sympathetic warmth of this team who smiled and reassured me they understood.
What is special about
I now realise that in order to truly love animals, you must also
empathise with their owners.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Aardveld Veterinary Clinic,
Ballydehob, Co
Reason for Nomination:
We would like to nominate our vet, Tim O’Leary, because of the
exceptional service he gives. He is a
very caring man.
I had to have my old Collie put to sleep 10 days ago. She followed me everywhere and indeed was my
“very best” friend. I rescued her 3
years ago, approx age 16-17 and Tim was treating her for heart failure. When the time came, Tim came to the house
and we discussed the situation and her quality of life. He is such a gentle understanding vet and
always puts the animal first. He is also
fair with bills.
My husband is chairman of the Animal Care Society, a small rescue
charity in
I would like to nominate Tim O’Leary for an award.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate our veterinary nurse because, in our opinion as
a family, she is simply outstanding in every way. We have known Lisa since she first came to
Abbeyville almost 12 years ago – cannot speak highly enough of her in every
way, her expertise with the pets (and their owners !), professionalism and
understanding is impossible to describe in such a way to do her justice.
We have always been aware of this, never more so than in February of
this year – 2007 – when our beloved Homer became unwell, was operated on and
had to be put to sleep – all in the space of 2 hours.
Lisa brought in one of her own dogs to give blood to Homer. She and Michael Ryan MRCVS stayed in the
surgery almost all of the Saturday afternoon before Homer’s operation. During
this time they rang us and were with us for a considerable time both after Homer’s
surgery and after he died.
We were in shock. Neither Michael
nor Lisa could have been more compassionate or sympathetic than if it had been
the loss of their own pet.
Following Homer’s death, Lisa rang almost every day (at her own expense)
to listen, sympathise, talk about our beloved, loving dog. She had known him from when we first got
him. So it was personal to her too.
Without her unbelievable support and help it would
have been even more difficult than it has been to have lost him. Lisa continues to ring regularly and has done
so since February, giving advice and general counselling – she has been and is
superb. A wonderful veterinary nurse.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
I would like to nominate my veterinary nurse because Lisa is always a
tower of strength. We have had some very
serious problems with Keri’s health. She
took ill in March 2004 and was referred to the vet. Hospital at Belfield. Her illness was extremely sudden (space of one week).
At Belfield she was given a 30/40% chance of survival. Thankfully she pulled through.
In October 2004 she had to have a malignant thyroid tumour removed from
her front paw. During all this time and
to date she is on serious medications – mydrea,
dilzem, vetmedin and Soloxine (sp).
In late April this year she suffered a major stroke, once again she
pulled through.
However I know without a shadow of a doubt that my husband and I would
not have been able to care with such an ill dog without the knowledge that we
had Lisa in support. She made herself
available to us 24 hours a day, seven days a week and never fails to make
contact on a regular basis to check on both Keri and the others, even if we are
not pestering her in a total panic during the past 2 ½ years – Keri has given
us numerous scares but Lisa has always been there to help.
Thank you Lisa, We can never repay your kindness and support.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Reason for Nomination:
On
We phoned John O’Mahony, our dog’s vet.
He was due to close but he waited for Misty to arrive to assess her
condition. On checking her over he
informed us she had nerve damage to her front right leg, 99.9% she would lose
the use of her leg and it would have to be amputated.
She stayed in his care until the Monday when we collected her from him.
We brought her home hoping her leg would mend but unfortunately it was
not to be the case, as the muscle started to wear away. We decided to go with John’s decision after a
few weeks as Misty’s leg was falling limp and annoying her, so we decided on
amputation.
We booked her in for the week starting the 5th March but on
the eve of the 28th Feb we noticed her paw was infected and starting
to rot (the week previous to this we had to dress it daily as her paw was
dragging on the ground).
First thing next morning we phoned John and told him about Misty’s paw,
he told us to bring her over straight away.
That morning, he amputated her leg from her shoulder down as the
infection was spreading. John saved
Misty’s life. She now runs all over the
place on 3 legs and doesn’t even realise she is missing a leg. It if wasn’t for John and the care and
attention she received promptly from him, we would not have Misty today.
Even when my partner brought his Dad’s dog over to his surgery John made
it his business to ask how Misty was doing.
I would like to nominate John O’Mahony for the care, attention and
personal service we received for Misty from him.
PS When the accident happened we were heart broken, but so happy now to
see Misty running all over the place.
The accident hasn’t stopped Misty doing what any “4” legged dog
does. She even out-runs our other dog
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate my veterinary team.
John has been our vet since 1994.
He has always been a wonderful and competent vet and I have always
recommended John and his staff.
My story of what I think makes John the no. 1 vet in this country,
starts in January 2005. My springer
spaniel, Buddy, was then nearly 14 years.
A dog bowled Buddy over on our walk, and for a day Buddy was very, very
quiet. I drove him down to John and from
his examination John diagnosed that his spleen was about to burst from a huge
tumour.
If this had happened, Buddy would have bled to death in a very short
time. John removed the spleen and for
four days kept Buddy in the clinic, even calling into my workplace to keep me
informed, and, just talk me through it.
Buddy made a full recovery and led a full and active life way beyond our
expectations.
In April this year, Easter bank holiday, Buddy became dangerously
ill. John still spent that weekend
treating Buddy, and again the recovery was miraculous. Always John would say “enjoy the time you
have left.”
Buddy was still swimming daily within a week of dying. A blood test showed his kidneys were collapsing
and rather than put my happy dog through any suffering, as John said: “ We will
help him on his way.”
That happened, with Buddy in my arms, in his own home, on
John and his assistant stayed with me for a good twenty minutes
after. The next day he rang to see how I
was.
On the front of your nomination form you have printed:
“care…professionalism….humour….compassion…”
John and his wonderful staff are the very personification of those
attributes.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Reason for Nomination:
Good morning.
I will give you a very short introduction to myself – my name is Skank
McDonald-Landers. You may think that is
not a very attractive name for a cat, but that is where my story begins.
I started my life as a feral. I
found myself in a lot of trouble at about 2 / 3 years of age; being in the
wrong place at the wrong time….you know how it goes….anyway….
I noticed that there was a water bowl outside a particular house, there
were cat people and I ingratiated myself on them. Unfortunately I was not as attractive as
their cat (which apparently was also a stray).
To describe myself at the time, I had no hair on my back legs or stomach
and was beginning to lose it on my body also.
Unfortunately when I was foraging for food I got a chicken bone stuck in
my jaw. To paint the picture, I was in
the McDonald/Landers garden, bald and frothing at the mouth and submitting
myself for help (I am sure you will understand this is not easy for a
cat). The people of the house referred
to me as that “skanky legged cat out the back”.
They also contacted the Animal Care Society and 2 mornings on the trot
before
I finally submitted on the third morning and there my relationship with
John O’Mahony, 14 The Fingerpost, Douglas East,
I was shipped down there and the McDonald-Landers people assumed that
was the end of me. John checked me out,
removed the chicken bone, treated my worms, and gave me a hysterectomy. He said I was good to go home, he also
discovered I was feeding my recently new-born kittens. I had no home !!! What was to happen ? He refused to give up on me and wanted me to
have a second chance of life.
He contacted the McDonald-Landers and requested that they look after me
to ensure my babies did not die. They
fed me, restored me to good health and I brought my babies to them. Once they came of age they were taken again
to John, who neutered/spayed them and found them good homes. My name was shortened from the skanky legged
cat, to Skank.
About a year later I disappeared for a few days, and dragged myself
home. Back to John, broken leg (back
left) – superb care from both John and his staff in my confinement. It took me approx 5/6 weeks recovery , but I
did not give up, I had an obligation to these people not to.
Nosiness led to a damaged hip, again my hero John to the rescue, his
tenderness and care continued.
Apparently as a result of my irregular bladder movements I have some
kind of crystals in my kidneys…back to the vet and “hey presto”…I am cured with
special food on John’s advice.
I spend 2 weeks of each year boarding in John’s practice when my
servants go on holidays – do not get me wrong, I do not like it, but if it was
a choice between there and a cattery, John wins hands down all the time – we
now have a mutual respect for each other.
To surmise, what I would like to say is the following:
1) John O’Mahony gave me a proper chance
of life, he suggested the people that found me should care for me – once he had
cured me – he did not give up, I firmly believe many others would have
2) He has nursed me through
numerous illnesses with dedication and care
3) He has taken care of my
babies with his work through the Animal Care Society
4) He along with his
dedicated staff look after my 2 week sojourn every year.
Through my owners I have a Pure Bred Burmese Cousin. This cat before conception was guaranteed a
life of luxury and pampering.
Ironically enough I spent 2 / 3 years in the wild and am now living the
same life as this cat, obviously through my owners, but it would never have
happened had it not been for John, with his dedication, passion and love of all
animals, he is to be applauded – and as you know, not many cats acknowledge
humans !! I’m not kidding.
My life today consists of sleeping on numerous beds, couches, fresh food
at all times, chasing mice and butterflies and above all, a secure future. Thank you Mr O’Mahony and staff….I will
forever be in your debt, you gave me a glorious life.
Skank x x x x x x
P.S. All dogs stink like wet
carpet.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co
Reason for Nomination:
Liam O’Reilly who cared for my dog Sally when she was 7 months old she
got meningitis and was very, very ill.
Liam cared for her and visited the clinic at
The dog made it and is fit and well today.
My previous dog had died as she was 17 years old and my husband bought
Sally Ann for me for my 69th birthday in June, as he knew I wouldn’t stay alone
in the house without a dog (result of a stroke). Now Liam knew I had the dog half trained and
I was so attached.
Today she barks when the phone rings and I’m deaf and I go and answer
it. The door bell she barks again. I told Liam the dog was my ears.
His nurses and staff each and every one, office etc, were all in love
with Sally. She was loose in the office
with the girls when my husband called to see how she was as I was too afraid
and upset to go.
I told Liam O’Reilly I’d like him as a doctor for myself. He has a lovely kind nature and always in
good form. The dog is 100% well and I
love her to bits, as she minds me.
Excuse writing please.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co Cork – Vet Liam O’Reilly &
Barbara Tel 021-4613672
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate my veterinary team because of the outstanding
care and attention they showed to my dog Bruce.
Bruce was 8 ½ when he developed a bad cough. When we took him to our local vet, he was
soon diagnosed with a serious heart condition which was at a very advanced
stage. We were expecting to be told we
would have to put him down and were dreading the recommendation.
However, to the contrary, our veterinary team enlisted the help of an
ultra-sound expert, and together they worked out a mix of medication for Bruce
to take that would nullify the secondary effects of his disease which were what
was causing him great pain and distress.
With painstaking efforts, over a period of time, a mix of medication was
devised which suited him and he began to respond. Over the next few weeks he regained weight,
and began to lead a more normal lifestyle again. Whilst he was unable to run or engage in any
energetic activity, he was able to enjoy his meals, potter about the garden and
spend time with his best friend, our grandson Oscar.
Sadly Bruce died a few weeks ago.
In the end his heart just gave up.
But he died quickly and peacefully at home and without pain. Our house has not been the same since. I have lost my best friend and most loyal
companion.
However I am happier in the knowledge that over his final months he
enjoyed himself without any pain or distress, and we were all able to enjoy the
extra time we had with him.
None of this would have been remotely possible without our veterinary
team who went above and beyond the call of duty and attended Bruce with such
kindness and attention that I have yet to see anywhere else. Bruce was a dog in a million and in
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, he was treated as just that.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co
Reason for Nomination:
Daisy’s Story
Daisy is our six months old Jack Russell bitch (of a slightly questionable
pedigree), and off spring of our other pet, Lucky, a grand old lady, who has
been since neutered by the vets at Knockgriffin, Midleton, Co
One day last April, Daisy left the garden to follow me as I drove into
Liam the vet was on hand to take charge of the situation. After stabilizing the dog with the necessary
infusions, an examination revealed serious injury to the pelvic area. A series of x rays later confirmed the extent
of the injury, namely a crushed pelvis on both sides and a broken femur. His initial thought was to humanely put the
dog down, as there was no one to claim her.
But just as quick, he thought he recognised the dog ! But as the practice covered a large area, he
had no idea where to start.
Meanwhile, at home the dog was quickly missed and we began a search of
the immediate area. This search grew as
friends came to help, but by night fall
nothing was found. Our kids made up a
“lost” poster on the computer, complete with a picture of our dog, and ran off
copies for placement on ESB poles and at local shops. As one day moved to the next, our sadness
deepended as we feared the worst. We
hoped that she was alive and that perhaps someone was taking care of her.
We called to our local Garda station to report the loss and to give a
description of Daisy. We also contacted
the Cats and Dogs home in
Daisy, after three days in the care of the vets of Knockgriffin, was
again taken to be put down, but Liam reconsidered as he was sure the dog was
known to him. The staff rallied and
began to make phone calls. Some time
later, a phone call to Cobh Garda station produced a positive result. They passed our telephone number to Liam who
endeavoured to make contact. This was
now day five.
As he rang our number, he found he was reaching our fax machine. Undaunted, he sent a fax to enquire if we had
lost our dog. All hell broke lose as we
scrambled to make our way to Knockgriffin.
We were very upset to find Daisy on a drip in a recovery room. Liam explained in detail the extent of her
injuries and a possible course of action.
“It won’t be cheap”, he said, “but I will do my utmost to give her some
quality of life.” “I’m confident I can
help her, even if she ends up with only three legs..”
We were devastated, but a three legged dog was better than none. As regards the cost ? Well our SSIAs which was earmarked to
renovate our bathroom, was about to mature.
Without a moment’s hesitation we agreed amongst ourselves that it should
go to look after Daisy.
The operation went ahead over two days.
Extensive rebuilding of the pelvis and femur joints was carried
out. Tough ordeals for any dog, but
again the staff were brilliant. All
seemed to be willing Daisy on to a good recovery and offered great support to
us.
We eventually came to take Daisy home.
It was like taking a new born baby.
Everything had to be done for her.
Over the coming weeks Daisy slowly improved. Our visits to the vets were encouraging each
time. On our final visit, Liam was taken
back at Daisy’s progress, as she no longer walked with a “flailing” leg, but
running and jumping almost like her old self.
Daisy was, and is, a part of our family, who has brought warmth and love
to enrich us all. We are so grateful to
the lady and her daughter who stopped to help, to the Garda who logged our
details and to the consistent Trojan efforts from the staff at Knockgriffin
Veterinary Clinic, Midleton.
To you all, THANK YOU.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate my vet Liam O’Reilly for the outstanding care
and attention he showed to my much loved Storm.
She didn’t have the best start.
We got her at 6 months. So she
was very wary of men. But for some
reason she really trusted Liam from her very first visit, which turned out to
be a Godsend for us, because we came to rely on Liam so much over a period of 5
months.
Storm had to have surgery for a torn cruciate ligament and developed an
infection for which she needed non-stop treatment and medication.
During this time Liam gave me his home and mobile number which I had to
use and it was never an inconvenience to Liam even on a Sunday or while on his
family holiday, day or night. He would
make house calls 2-3 times a week at all times to suit me to change her
dressing By doing this, Storm was kept
stress free and secure in her own home and with the least amount of discomfort.
She trusted Liam so much not once did Liam put a muzzle on her and she
was a big dog, approx 58 kgs. He could
do anything to her, she knew he was only going to do her good.
He always explained everything he did to us, so we’d know how to react
if anything changed, as we were first time dog owners.
I have to say all the staff, nursing and reception are lovely. Nothing is too much trouble or any bother for
them.
But the one nurse that stood out for us was Yvonne. She just has a loveliness and gentleness
about her. During her treatment Storm
grew fond of Yvonne and would always know a big rub and petting was on the way
while we waited to see Liam. If Yvonne
was busy with work when we went in,
she’d come into the waiting room when she was done for a chat on Storm’s
progress and of course a rub for herself.
Some things are hard to put into words but when you come across someone
who has a natural kindness, you don’t forget them.
Unfortunately Storm wasn’t meant to survive her illness. But it wasn’t through any lack of trying on
Liam’s behalf. His care was ongoing for 5 months between house, veterinary
clinic and contact with
I hope sincerely you consider both Liam O’Reilly and Yvonne for your
award so they will know how the work they do, is done with so much compassion
and means so much to those of us who love our pets so much. As I feel no words I can write will do
justice to them. But they are held in
such high regard.
Thank you for giving me this chance to express my heart felt thanks.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Knockgriffin Veterinary Clinic, Unit 9,
Knockgriffin Industrial Park, Midleton, Co Cork – Vets Barbara Fleming and Liam
O’Reilly, vet nurses Yvonne and Therese
Tel 021-4613672
Reason for Nomination:
Simon, our most treasured black cat, developed cancer of the thyroid but
our vets Liam and Barbara did not give up on him and kept him going for 2
years. They gave him kindness and
attention beyond their professional remit, visiting him at home and keeping him
pain free.
He died in June of 2007 peacefully with Liam and myself and my husband
by his side.
Blondie was diagnosed with a detached retina and had to have his eye
removed (aged 10 years). Barbara (vet)
did the operation which was a complete success but with a few problems. Again they were always on hand at the
practice to help and advise.
I had to call them out at
I would love to see the practice receive this award. They truly deserve it. We have the best veterinary practice in the
country.
My husband and I are semi retired now and our cats mean the world to us.
Thanking you.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Mackessy Veterinary Hospital, Demesne,
Reason for Nomination:
My vet saved my dogs’ life
and I am so greatful to him. I have a
beautiful
He examined Libby and said
she had a slight temperature, he also examined her tummy and said he could find
a little lump but I said she could be in pup , he said that yes it was a pup he
was feeling . He then scaned her and and there was one pup. At this stage Libby
got very sick again all over the floor.He then Xrayed her and could see nothing
unusual but said he would keep her for the night and gave her Antibiotics.
I was so relieved he was
keeping her because at this stage I was sick with worry and so were my kids
wondering what was wrong with our poor Libby............
I collected her the following day as he felt she was a little better and had
not got sick anymore.
But on Monday she was sick
again so after Xraying her again he said he would operate straight
away.The girl in reception said they would take good care of Libby and my kids
and I left in tears wondering what he would find when he opened her up.......
He rang and said are you
missing a baby ELEPHANT and I said O MY God I know what you mean she had
swallowed a soft teddy elephant belonging to the kids............
He said she was doing fine
and was keeping her until the following day.We were all so relieved as we
thought she would die..........
I am ever greatful to my vet
for saving our Beautiful Libby’s life and for working in such a very
professional and compassionate way with her. The service that he and his wife
who is also a vet gave to us was like being in a hospital with one of my kids
which indeed that is what she is like to us.....She is our pride and Joy !!!!!!
We are now awaiting the
arrival of her puppy ... and NOT A ELEPHANT... which is due this week PG.
== END OF ENTRY ==
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary Group/
Botanic Veterinary, 183 Botanic Rd., Glasnevin,
Reason for Nomination:
The service we received was beyond the call of duty.
Fintan was exceptionally skilled, he researched the disease, treatment
and outcome extensively. He was
extremely patient, yet he was 100% positive at all times.
I also found him to be extremely understanding, displaying empathy and
sensitivity all the time.
Excellent vet, to be highly recommended !
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary Group/
Botanic Veterinary, 183 Botanic Rd., Glasnevin, Dublin 9 – Vets Fintan Browne,
Susan Barry and colleagues Maria
Reason for Nomination:
During the thirteen years while I had Sammy (rescue cat) the team have
been most helpful and understanding.
Sammy had many visits to the practice.
Particularly during the past eighteen months.
All were so caring and particularly those most often involved in our
visits – Susan Barry, Fintan Browne and Maria (desk nurse). I always felt he was well cared for when he
was “boarding”. He just seemed happy, as
he was made a fuss of.
They just treat animals as individuals there and owners do appreciate
this. I just want this recognised
although my Sammy is gone since last week.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary Group/
Botanic Veterinary, 183 Botanic Rd., Glasnevin, Dublin 9 – Vet Michael Hatton
and all of the team
Reason for Nomination:
Dear Sir and Madam
We would like to nominate the whole team of Anicare Veterinary Group.
They actually have 3 clinics, we have used all - our main one however is the
Botanic Clinic.
What can we say, only that Mr Michael Hatton's Team from Vets to nurses and
receptionists are outstanding. Everyone has time for you and your pet.
The practice has increased in size over the last few years, but due to great
management they have not lost that homely and friendly manner.
We have dealt with all the Vets and have found them great - we never have this
feeling ~ that we would prefer one vet over the other - if we have a problem
with our cats
We also use their cattery in Blanachardstown and are delighted with the new
cattery they have built.
Thanks again to them all for all the help during 2007 and especially with our
younger cat Bella who is deaf.
Wish all the team the best of luck
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary
Group/Clontarf Veterinary,
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate my veterinary team in the Clontarf branch of
Anicare Veterinary Group. They mix
professionalism with care both to my pet and the other visitors to the clinic.
Advertising services by others in the community with animal products and
services to offer, thus saving pet owners additional stress during potentially
difficult times.
Supplying a range of foods appropriate to your individual animal’s care.
Showing care for stressed pet owners and visitors with love for the
little creatures they care for.
Homing or directions for homing centres for potential pet care givers. I know of several families they’ve completed
as a result.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Anicare Veterinary
Group/Clontarf Veterinary,
Reason for Nomination:
Some people are lucky enough to win the lotto, but I am lucky to have
the best veterinary practice in the world right at my doorstep.
Every single person in the practice is always smiling, warm and each and
every one of them carry out their work in a fantastic way with utter
professionalism, helping our cats in the best way – always.
Thank you Anicare.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
The Animal Clinic, Ashton House,
All the practice team but in
particular
Although the practice was
particularly hectic, Syd assigned a staff member full time to attend and watch
Sabi. He himself checked on him between each patient and arranged an emergency
appointment with a heart specialist for a scan next morning. In brief, Syd's
accurate diagnosis, and preliminary care strengthened Sabi enough to undergo a
strenuous test regime.
A massive fluid build up
around his heart distorted it to such an extent that the valve was plopping in
& out instead of opening and closing. 500ml of bloody fluid was drained
from around his heart in a labourous and lengthy process - all whilst lying
conciously awake on the scan table. Sabi was praised for his superb trusting
temperament and a patient nature. He is a big hit with the surgery.
His recovery was amazing and
12 hours later was improved enough to come back home with us. Four weeks on,
he's his boisterous, happy and active self again. Sabi had a follow-up consultation
with Syd and the team recently and he made a bee-line straight in Syd's open
exam room, for a cuddle and hug.
Thank you Syd, your quick,
knowledgable and caring response undoubtedly save Sabi's life. On behalf of
Joan and I and our other 3 Ridgebacks we are delighted to be afforded this
opportunity of expressing our 'heart felt' thanks and appreciation.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animal Welfare Veterinary Hospital, 40 Charlemont
Street, Dublin 2 - John Hardy, Michael Brady, Paul Hurley and team Tel 01 6714303
Reason for Nomination:
This is an exceptional
practice, where the emphasis is on care. Each vet, from John Hardy to Richard
(now sadly departed for
They have an awareness of
pet/owner relationship and a real understanding of how important this is to the
well-being of every animal they treat. Time is never an issue here - each
vet will spend as much time as is needed with their patients, no matter how
crowded the waiting room is.
There is never a sense of
reduced care if the animal in question is old (as my cat is) - in fact if
anything the level of treatment is increased, as they understand the distress caused
by illness in a pet who has spent a long lifetime with their owner(s).
I know Lolita's great age and
excellent quality of life is due in no small part to the Animal Welfare Vets in
Long may they continue to
help and care for the pets of
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animal Welfare Veterinary Hospital, 40 Charlemont
Street, Dublin 2 - John Hardy, Michael Brady, Paul Hurley, Suzie Mitchell,
John, Hazel, Grainne and team Tel 01 6714303
Reason for Nomination:
I WOULD LIKE TO NOMINATE THE
WHOLE TEAM AT THE
THEIR INCLUSIVE APPROACH TO
ANIMAL HEALING,IS VERY EFFEECTIVE AS THEY TAKE THE TIME TO EXPLAIN THEIR
DIAGNOSIS AND THE STEPS NEEDED TO HEAL THE ANIMAL WHICH IS VERY REASSURING.MY
CATS WERE TREATED BY ALL THE VETS AT THE CLINIC BUT MOSTLY BY RICHARD
SCOTT,MICHAEL BRADY,SUZIE MITCHELL,JOHN HARDY AND LATELY BY PAUL HURLEY
OUR TWO CATS ,AGED 14 AND 13
YEARS,HAVE RECEIVED TENDER CARE FROM BOTH VETS AND NURSES ALIKE ,ONE BELOVED
CAT HAS BEEN TREATED FOR OVER TWO YEARS FOR AN AUTOIMMUNE CONDITION. AS SHE IS VERY NERVOUS AT THE VISITS THE VETS
HAVE BEEN VERY RESOURCEFUL IN SUGGESTING WAYS TO RELAX HER AND GIVE HER , HER
TREATMENT WITH TENDERNESS AND UNDERSTANDING ON AN ONGOING BASIS .
OUR OTHER CAT WAS DIAGNOSED
WITH DIABETES BY THE TEAM.THEY TOOK THE TIME TO EXPLAIN THE BLOOD TESTS IN
DETAIL ,AND THE IMPLICATIONS OF DIABETES FOR THE LONG TERM CARE OF SAMMY.OUR
CATS ARE HAVING A GOOD QUALITY OF LIFE THANKS TO THE TREATMENT AND CARE OF THE
TEAM AND I AM VERY GRATEFUL TO THE TEAM FOR THIS.
HAVING WORKED IN A WELFARE
ENVIRONMENT MYSELF I APPRECIATE THE EFFORT IT TAKES TO BE CONTINUOUSLY
COMPASSIONATE ,WEEK IN WEEK OUT.
THIS ETHOS IS APPARENT EVEN
IN THE WAITING ROOM, WHERE THE
I FEEL THIS TEAM DESERVE TO
BE RECOGNISED FOR ALL THEIR HARD WORK FOR ANIMAL WELFARE AND ARE TRULY
DESERVING.
IT WOULD BE GREAT IF THEIR
WORK WAS TO BE RECOGNISED.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Artane Veterinary Clinic,
Reason for Nomination:
N = natural ability
U = unconditional love
R = responsible
S = sensitivity
E = empathy
I would like to nominate an individual nurse/receptionist fo rthe
Veterinary Pet Care Awards.
Caitriona from an early age loved small animals and always said she was
going to work with them as a veterinary nurse.
We had “Sonny” a cocker spaniel when she was young and one year we went
to
Transition Year in secondary school as part of work experience she got
work with Dr Grimes in the small animal clinic in Ballsbridge and even offered
to work for nothing after that. But for
insurance reasons he could not give her work.
With her Leaving Cert done still this line of a career was with her.
In 2001 she could not get started here in
But in October 2002, her whole world fell apart, as here in
In 2003 Caitriona decided to come home.
CV after CV went out to vet practices.
She got a temporary position in Roscrea, following that to a practice in
Clonmel. Moved back to
This is pure dedication, no other job in life would do, never has, had
to be animals.
As a person, Caitriona is 24 years old now and has a heart bigger than
life for animals. Such care and dedication
to them each day in work and out of work.
Friends and relatives look for advice and seek her opinion about their
pets. Her advice would always be of a
responsible nature. Pet owners have
commented on her smile and friendly approach to them on entering vet
practices. She knows how worried they
are about their little pets and immediately tries to put them at ease.
Approximately 4 months ago, puppies were born early in the practice and
the mammy was unable to feed them herself.
As they had to be fed every 2 hours to survive, Caitriona and the other
nurses voluntarily brought them home with them in turns and fed them every 2
hours even during the night, and still went to work the next morning. Dedication !
On days when Caitriona has finished early she would ring work and speak
to the vet to ask about a particularly sick dog or cat she had been looking
after. So even though when she is not at
work, her mind is still thinking about them.
From the time a sick animal comes into the practice she likes to follow
through on what is wrong with them up to the time they go home. Even new born puppies that come in for their
injections she advises the owners and gives them puppy packs to get them
started.
Caitriona had form an early age a great fear of getting a “needle”
(injection) and still does to this day.
As her brother Alan RIP had leukaemia when he was 4 years old and
Caitriona would have been 6 years old.
She saw him going through chemotherapy and this greatened her fear. She collapses of a needle touches her
skin. Having said this, it was a huge
worry for her about entering this line of career. She did not want to hurt the animals by
injecting them. But over the years she
gained confidence and knew she had to be “cruel to be kind”. Now she has no problem doing this. It was a major issue for her at the
beginning.
Caitriona had 5 teeth taken out last week and is going through a lot of
pain with the stitches etc. her own dog,
“Archie” is 1 year and 9 months old and she discovered he has an ear infection,
so we got drops from her vet for him even though she is ill herself she would
not let her dog suffer.
Overall, I as her mum would know her dedication to small animals and I
feel she has overcome major issues in her young life. But her love and dedication to her job has
thankfully got her through the very hard times – she could have given up the
caring and loving heart she has particularly losing her brother.
To me she is a very special person and more importantly a loving and
caring daughter and I wanted to nominate her for the “person she is.” I hope after reading this you too will see
her “special gift for life and small animals.”
Caitriona does not know I am nominating her so if she is successful it
would be a huge bonus for her to show ho much she is appreciated in both her
family’s life and those of all the little animals she has cared for and will
continue to care for.
From - The Proud Mum
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Blackrock Vetinary Clinic, 5 Proby Square, Carysfort Ave., Blackrock, Co Dublin – Vet
Eamonn Moore & Team Tel 01-2889641
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate
Eamonn Moore for the Stronghold Veterinary Pet Care Award, em, again.
A couple of years ago, I nominated Eamonn because of the exceptional care and
professionalism he displayed when he cared for my cat, Ticker, on two
occasions. Ticks had originally suffered acute anaphylactic shock and also got
run over a year later. Since then, he has not attempted to obliterate any more
of his nine lives and thankfully has not been in need of Eamonn's services.
So why the nomination? Well it seems petty not to, when you think about it.
After all, it's not Eamonn's fault that the little sod hasn't tried to do
himself in recently and Eamonn is still the same considerate, patient and
professional person he was two years ago and therefore deserves to be
nominated.
Popping into the Blackrock Veterinary Clinic to get something is one of the
more enjoyable errands that one has to do. Eamonn is always happy to chat and
joke for a bit (assuming that he's not busy tending to an animal) and will
occasionally show you some interesting aspect of whatever he was working on
that day.
It's reassuring to see the
enthusiasm and care with which he carries out his work with and it's always
good to know that the levels of skill and professionalism that we availed of in
the past are still there, should Ticks ever require them.
In short, Eamonn is one of the good guys.
A decent person.
The same of course also applies to Melanie, Eamonn's assistant, who, like my
other cat, never gets a mention.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Blackrock Vetinary Clinic, 5 Proby Square, Carysfort Ave., Blackrock, Co Dublin – Vet
Eamonn Moore Tel 01-2889641
Reason for Nomination:
Eamonn Moore has been an exceptional vet both professionally and
personally.From the first day we brought our lovely dog Kruger to him as a
young dog, Eamonn showed exceptional insight, sensivitity, care, compassion and
patience.
Over the years, he has on
many occasions shown extraordinary acute clinical knowledge and perception in
diagnosing Kruger's problems and in accessing and understanding the whole dog,
not just his clinical symptoms.
Over the twelve years of his life, Kruger was frequently unwell. He suffered
from IBS, Horner's syndrome, hypothyrodism, and frequent tummy upsets, as well
as having a highly sensivitive temprament which resulted in his frequently
becoming very anxious and panicy especially in his later years. Keeping him in
good health was an art as well as a science, and Eamonn managed to have him
healthy against all the odds, most of the time.
Kruger was ultra-sensitive, and with his lovely character he was known as
"the gentleman of the practice" and treated as such. I cannot count
the number of times we visited Eamonn, but on each occasion we were treated
with absolute professionalism, kindness, patience, a desire to teach and
explain every detail of what was the problem.
Eamonn was so sensitive to the nuances of Kruger's personality, that before he
had even walked in the door of the surgery he could spot what was wrong with
him. Unlike a lot of dogs going to the vet, when Kruger was ill, he trusted
Eamonn so much that he used to get out of the car and walk straight in and
stand looking pleadingly at Eamonn, as if to say, I know you can make me
better.
If Kruger was too unwell to go to the surgery,Eamonn made himself available to
call to the house, despite having such a busy practice. On one occasion when Kruger
became ill late on a Saturday night, Eamonn left a meal with friends and came
to look after him, staying until the small hours to make sure Kruger was
stable. There was absolutely no sense of his having been disturbed or
inconvenienced-although obviously it was the last thing he needed on a Saturday
night out with friends.His priority and only thought was to make him better,
and to support and reassure us as we watched our beloved dog try to overcome a
serious bacterial infection.
Kruger was such a sensitive dog, we could never put him in kennels. When my son
was getting married, Eamonn knew I was unhappy at leaving Kruger too long with
a young sitter. He volunteered, at his own expense, to send his nurse Melanie
over for the day to "babysit" Kruger. When circumstances made this
impossible, Eamonn called over himself-an act of care and support which was way
beyond the call of duty. He checked in on his way home after a long day to make
sure Kruger was still ok.
As Kruger aged his health deteriorated badly this year and his back legs
weakened. It became obvious and inevitable that the dreaded day would come when
he needed to be put to sleep. I cannot even begin discribe the wonderful manner
and professionalism with which Eamonn dealt with this He spoke with the various
members of the family-some resistant to the idea and in denial as to the
necessity of letting Kruger go. Eamonn gave all the time needed over a couple
of weeks to talk it through until all came to understand the inevitability of
the decision.
He was especially kind and patient with one daughter who had just come home at
last from years of study abroad and was not ready to let go. He led her to make
the decision herself, rather than have it imposed on her by the rest of us,
something for which I will always be grateful.
I know all owners think their dogs are special, but Kruger really was an
exceptionally loving, intelligent and gentle dog who will be irreplacable. That
we had him so long was a tribute to Eamonn's care. Without his care I know he
would have not survived so long.
I cannot imagine how we would
have dealt with Kruger's passing if Eamonn had not been such a wonderful vet.
He offered to come to the house so it would be less traumatic for Kruger, and
also for the family. He told us he would put aside two hours of his day as it
was the most important thing he had to do.
Eamonn rang to say he was on his way exactly at the time he had promised he
would try to be with us-an important detail when waiting on such a painful
event. He gently talked to Kruger and explained everything to us all before
putting him to sleep. Although it was such a heartbreaking occasion the way in
which Eamonn dealt with it makes it a peaceful memory, a wonderful gift to have
given us all.
When some of the family were
not ready to let him take Kruger away, Eamonn said he would leave him with us
and come back in an hour so we could say goodbye at our own pace. When he came
back and collected him in his own car, he treated Kruger's remains with such
tenderness and respect that although it was awful, we knew he was, even in
death, in the best hands possible.
I cannot speak highly enough of Eamonn's absolute dedication to his veterinary
profession. He is its most wonderful ambassador. Mention his name to any dog or
cat owner in Blackrock, and the immediate response is one of praise and
appreciation for all he does for our pets and how personable he is in dealing
with the clients.
I know he received Vet of the Year last year, much to the delight of his
clients. I do hope this does not mean he cannot receive this award again, or
that because it may be more politic in encouraging other practices that his
nomination will not be treated in the same way.
It would be wonderful for me,
and for all my family who are so grateful to him for twelve years of absolute
dedication and professionalism, if Eamonn were to be awarded Vet of the Year
again. Perhaps you have an award or this may be instrumental in a new award for
care during the lifetime of a particular pet? It would be a great tribute to
both Eamonn and Kruger, our beloved pet who gave us so much love during his
life.
Thanking you,
Casual conversation in the park with
other pet owners always results in Eamonn's praises being sung, and it being
said how superior the service we recieve for our pets from Eamonn is, than that
which we receive for ourselves from the medical profession!
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Blackrock Vetinary Clinic, 5 Proby Square, Carysfort Ave., Blackrock, Co Dublin – Vet
Eamonn Moore Tel 01-2889641
Reason for Nomination:
Eamon Moore is a special vet to whom both pet and owner can relate. I attach story of my wonderful dog. He was a special vet and my dog Lady loved
him. He made her passing bearable ! He made her life happier by keeping her a
well dog:-
“It is hoped that most people will have the pleasure of loving someone
or something at least once in their lifetime.
I fell in love with a bitch called Lady.
A dog of no exalted breed, no particular beauty, became for ten years,
in many respects, my reason d’etre.
Lady came into my life one fine summer’s day in 1997, when a friend
organised an unwanted bitch from a pound for me. She was perhaps eighteen months old and while
well trained in toilet manners, she displayed a sense of deep insecurity. When taken for walks, her attachment to the
lead and to her own person, me, never waned.
In the initial stages, she would keep looking back to make sure I had
not disappeared. She had been rejected
twice by her original family and dogs never forget !
She was with me 24/7. Her basket
was in my room. She travelled happily in
my car and we walked together. Lady had
a beautiful face and a peculiar tuft on her little head. She was a middle sized black dog, who unfortunately
dispensed enormous amounts of hair.
Some were amused at her name, Lady, because she was not a pedigree
animal. However her nature was more
queenlike than mere lady.
Her gentle demeanour had a huge Alsation like personality. A knock to the door was met with a snarling
animal who bounced off the door like a Sumai wrestler. Many a grown man trembled at the door
anticipating devouring. But she
personified gentleness. Her soft brown
eyes were pools of affection. She was
universally loved by those on whom she dispensed her affection but she was a
very discerning dog. Not all were
included in her coterie. She had
character and humour, dogs to smile and occasionally they have a good laugh at
you !
For my son, Tom, and me, she was a central part of our small
family. As she grew older, she became
grey. When her eyes were rheumy my son,
Tom, would gently clean them with tissue.
She never stole, peed or messed in the house. One time, when I suffered a bout of sickness,
she became unwell as if in sympathy with me.
With age, she got arthritis but a spoon of olive oil in her dinner every
day seemed to prevent pain if not stiffness.
This year, our grand old lady dog was showing a little her age. However in March, suddenly she became very
ill. We took her to the vet, Eamonn
Moore, who had minded her over the years and with whom she had a great
affinity.
Not all vets appealed to Lady and she had shown disrespect to at least
two. Eamonn sent her immediately to the
For another week Eamonn gently treated her and I sat with her, filled
with trepidation. She received wonderful
care from Eamonn but deterioriated and on Friday 9th March, I was
with her as Eamonn gently and with great dignity put her to sleep. As I write I can feel the tears well up but
they only follow an unrelenting flow that followed in the weeks after her
death.
Every year, a doggy Christmas stocking was put under the tree for
Lady. It was as important a ritual as
the turkey or Christmas pudding. This
year there will be no Christmas tree. It
was my privilege to love and be loved by Lady and her great spirit will always
sustain me. Her ghost is present in my
care and home and I am a better person because she shared her life in good and
in bad times with me.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
O'Scanaill Vet Hospital,
Reason for Nomination:
Well where do I start - I
have two dogs and have been going to Conor with our first dog for a year and a
half now. I often take fosters from the pound - so needless to say with
two young boisterous dogs and fosters we do tend to be in the vets more then
the average pet owner!
The reason I want to nominate
Conor is not because he has always helped look after my dogs to the highest
care and not because we are in and out almost every two weeks - we always have
somebody sick - and not because of his sense of humour and his ability to put
us at ease but because of his compassion, quick thinking and the fact that he
saved my young collie crosse’s life!
At around 10.30 at night my 9 month old collie cross Charlie vomited. I
thought nothing much of it and just brought him to bed with me to keep an eye
on him. At
By 1.30 I decided it was best
we go down, as his tummy was turning and had started to show blood in his poo
also. So I phoned Conor at
He met me half an hour later
on a horrible wet March night. He did a full examination of Charlie and
it was very hard to tell what was wrong with him - he was lifeless and
unresponsive. He was given plenty of injections and put on a drip - it took a
long time to find his veins as he was gone so sick in such a short space of
time.
Thankfully Conor made a
judgment call not to operate on him which was the right thing to do as he
didn't have any blockages and was very very weak. He assured me I did
everything I could for Charlie and that he would do the same. I left my
baby behind and it must have been after
Conor had stayed to help him
through and was there until
We were so relieved Charlie
had pulled through the night as it was not expected that he would - our vet
rang different vets to see if anyone had any similar illness as was so unusual
for a dog to get sick so quickly and no apparent cause. Its thought that
Charlie may have lived for another hour perhaps two if we hadn't got him in so
quickly and taken to such a brilliant vet!
It was a long road back to
recovery for Charlie he was still vomiting lots of blood the next day and would
remain in the vets for the next 5 days on a drip. He was losing too much
blood but his vital signs were okay. We finally got him home and of
course have been up and down to Conor with him since - always putting my mind
at ease and listening to an extremely over-protective pet parent!
A second thing I want to thank all the vets and nurses for was that they didn't
mind me coming down to see our little fella - at least 3 times a day - they let
us spend as much time with him as we wanted and to bring him out for little
rambles with his drip! I think this helped him and us loads .
What happened to Charlie is
still unknown - but without our vets quick thinking and going that extra mile
for us all the time - I am sure Charlie would not have survived! Our
little collie is the life and soul of the house - most defiantly the fun
factor! I can't thank Conor and all the staff at O'Scanaills enough!
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Priory Veterinary Clinic,
Tel 01 4513577
Reason for Nomination:
As Dog Exhibitors &
Breeders, our Dogs are a huge part of our lives and Nikki and Suzanne offer a
friendly, caring, efficient, professional service to us.
On many occasions outside
surgery hours they have helped us. One
particular occasion was a litter of newly born puppies that were fading no
matter what we did. They arrived with extra heat lamps and after
countless visits administering fluid injections over many days the pups made it
through. They had arranged to take the pups and hand rear them until they got
stronger but in the end this was not necessary.
One is almost a Spanish
Champion, another is being shown successfully in
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
UCD Equine Clinic, Veterinary Surgery Unit, Veterinary
Services Centre, UCD, Belfield, Dublin 4
- Florien Jenner (Lecturer),
Luanne Hunt (Surgery Resident),
Wilfried Schneeweiss (“Michael”) (Surgery Intern); and team
Tel 01 7166001
Reason for Nomination:
Whilst on holiday in
He made the arrangements and
instructed us as to how to safely load him and to get there as quick as
possible. The following morning, St
Patricks Day, we loaded ''Boo'' at 07.30 and travelled to UCD arriving at
08.30.
Despite the early hour a full
team was already assembled awaiting him including Dr. Florien Jenner who would
become a firm friend in the coming weeks. After we got ''Boo'' into his stable
they recommended we go for coffee while they commenced X-rays, we returned two
hours later only to find they had still not finished. It later transpired that
the X-rays were so conflicting that they had to call in a senior radiologist
who lived on the north side of
Following her examination she
confirmed that not only was his stifle dislocated but the joint was popping in
and out of place every stride. ''Boo'' was finding it very hard to do anything
else other than stand at this stage and even then wouldn't put weight on his
leg. When he moved he merely dragged the affected limb behind him. They settled
him in and began pain relieving treatment and TLC.
Over the coming days no
change was evident, they had never encountered a case like this. There seemed
to be no way to keep the joint in place and no reason for it not to stay in
place. They videoed him and sent the case to experts in
The support we got from the
staff was incredible, Dr. Jenner seemed to live with ''Boo'', when we called in
at
We didn't think there was any
hope at this stage but she thought otherwise - his pain was alleviating and it
may be possible for him to walk, albeit dragging a leg, but free of pain.
While he was there they decided to examine his teeth and try to improve his
eating ability by correcting them, they spent two days doing this and added no
further charge. They simply said that he'd be happier now and hopefully be able
to chew his food properly
Then things took a bad turn
and an extremely potent abscess formed in his foot. Poulticing two to three
times a day was required and nerve blocks had to be administered every eight
hours. At this point Dr. Jenner took a few days leave and entrusted his care to
Michael who was diligent in care as she was. We later heard indirectly that
while attending a dinner function one night he excused himself around
After three weeks they were
happy enough to release him into my care with a strict set of instructions
which were diligently followed. Although now discharged ''Boo'' was still
upfront in Dr Jenners mind and I received almost daily emails following his
progress. In addition she was regularly on the phone to me to check that the
abscess was draining correctly and what treatment to continue with. She did this
for a further week and was a real star and a great source of encouragement.
All went well and several
weeks later a very poorly but relatively sound horse walked into his field,
eight weeks after his accident. He seemed to have made it!
A month later he was found in
his field badly lame and unable to put one of his hind legs on the ground, the
symptoms appeared to be the same but it was on the other hind leg he was now
lame. The following day we contacted the hospital only to find Dr. Jenner was
on leave for research, however on hearing our plight they tracked her down and
although no longer at the clinic she arranged for him to be readmitted.
Once again when we arrived a
team was assembled to greet him headed by Dr. Luanne Hunt who was familiar with
his case and had in fact attended to him with Dr. Jenner during his previous
stay. While examining him the 'phone went and it was Dr. Jenner herself
enquiring as to whether he had arrived yet and what the prognosis was!
Her parting comment to Luanne
is forever in my mind 'Be gentle with him, he's not very brave!' She came down
at the weekend (her weekend off) to see ''Boo'' and several of the 'old' team,
including Michael, also attended. Thankfully it was not a repeat
occurrence, although his stifle was loose it was not dislocated and the source
of his problem was another abscess.
However they decided to keep
him in for the weekend while they gave him the once over and monitored his
progress. During this time they did a parasite check as his condition was in
pretty poor condition. He was clear of parasites so once again they did another
dental check and corrected several further dental faults over the next day or
two.
Dr Hunt was concerned enough
about his condition that although he was being treated for an abscess she went
off and researched his diet. After he had been discharged she contacted me
every day to see how he was, both by email and by telephone. She then informed
me that she had spoken with several dieticians in the
They also made arrangements
to see him every six months to monitor his teeth and to keep them in as good
condition as possible so that he can continue to chew.
It is now five months since
the accident and ''Boo'' now has a glossy coat and can be seen cantering around
his field. He has a slight limp but otherwise seems to be managing OK and can
be described as content in life!
I think it is worth pointing
out that at 21 years of age and with advanced arthritis, Boo had no 'future'
other than grazing in his field. However they did not let this cloud their
judgement and never discussed any alternative other than getting him better. In
gratitude for this and their work I would like to see the award(s) presented to
-
1. The staff and grooms of the Large Animal clinic.
Their handling and attention to detail with him was above the bounds of duty.
From his daily grooming, mane pulling, changing of rugs to even giving him his
polo mints at night, their work was without compare. Anytime we went in both he
and his stable were immaculate. For facilitating our daily after hours visits
when they were finished for the night, they deserve even more praise.
2. Dr. Florien Jenner
For her ceaseless care of Boo over a period of four weeks I could not thank her
enough. The concern she showed was so outstanding that she even came in on days
off to check him. At no point did she give up or say that it was time to let
him go. She was determined to see him walk into his field again. From
contacting vets in
3. Dr Luanne Hunt
Whilst many vets will treat an injury they do not always look beyond. Luanne
was diligent enough that although they were treating his leg she examined and
rectified dental problems and then spent a considerable length of time
researching a diet for him in the
4. 'Michael,
I do not know his correct name but we could find out if necessary. He was an
Austrian vet and deserves a special mention because anyone who leaves a social
function to attend a horse has to be praised.
Postscript
''Boo'' passed away peacefully in his stable on 14th August, five
months after his accident. As far as we can tell he had a heart attack in his
sleep and suffered no pain.
He had recovered from his
ordeal and spent his last summer at home, with his friends and in his field.
Without the staff of UCD I doubt if he would have ended his days in such a
quiet manner. Both Florien and Luanne contacted us to express their sympathy at
the passing of 'a great character' and 'a real gentleman'.
To them we say Thank You
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
The
Reason for Nomination:
Because he has a great
understanding of small animals like hamsters.
We brought our first hamster
Caca Milis to the Ark Clinic. We didn't know who was going to see her as it was
the first time we had been there. Aidan took care of us and it was great to see
that he knew exactly how to deal with her. He's an expert in small animals and
he told us about his pet jerbels.
He is very good giving advice,
telling you all the options and always supporting in your decision. Caca MIlis
had an eye infection and we had to giver her eyedrops, not very easy with a
rodent! She recovered shortly after.
We've been taking all our
hamsters to him. But I have to mention his best performance: an operation to
remove a tumour.
Our hamster Blanks was
growing a tumour in his abdomen and it was getting bigger very slowly. We went
to see Aidan twice before we decided to go ahead. We considered the life
expectancy of a hamster and Blanks age (2 1/2years), and thought if it was
worth it or not to do it. But he was in great form, the tumour didn't bother
him at all, only that it was getting bigger and it would eventually become a
problem. Aidan told us the pros and cons, he said it was a possible
intervention and he had no doubt he would recover well.He had done that before
with a budgie.
He didn't put any pressure at
all, and we all were also aware of the fact that you can buy a hamster for 10
euros... But that was not the point. We have an animal and we took the
responsability to take care of it. There was a high chance for him to recover
and I knew he was in good hands.
We arranged a day and Blanks
had his tumour removed. He recovered completely and it was totally worth it. He
lived for 4 more months at almost 3 years of age, which is very good for a
hamster.
Aidan always takes time in explaining you all what is going on, he has no hurry
and always respects your decision and give you all his support.
I'm so glad we know him.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Tom Rennick Veterinary, Church View, Tuam , Co Galway-
Vet: Tom Rennick & colleague
Tel 093-24546
Reason for Nomination:
Tom Rennick is a gentleman
& a Vet with communication skills that surpass many other human beings. He communicates with animal owners & their
pets in a caring, sensitive yet positive nature.
My dog "Claddagh"
loves going to the vet & will jump in the car even though he is ill to go
to Tom, he knows as I do that Tom will cure whatever ails him. Tom is a
great example of a top class vet knowledgeable about conditions & the
best form of treatment, always willing to give advice which works.
Equally, I have found that
the many times I telephoned his surgery for advice my call was always handled
in a professional & caring manner allevating my concerns about my sometimes
very sick dog.
Claddagh has a number of
illness's but I would not change him for the world neither would I change
my vet. I have spoken to many pet owners whilst attending Tom Rennick's Surgery
& it is clear to see that they all think the same as I do. Tom is worth his
weight in gold for the service & dedication he provides to the people &
animals of Tuam & surrounding areas.
I'm sure that he has saved
Claddagh's life & that of many other animals. "Thank you" is just
not enough, therefore I am delighted to nominate him for this award & hope
that he & his surgery gets the recognition they truly deserve.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Western Veterinary Clinic, Clifden Business
Park, Galway Rd., Clifden, Co
Reason for Nomination:
They have “all” been just incredible over the last years but especially
the last 8 months. Bramble became part
of their family, he greeted them each visit and they went down on theirs “to
and for” him !
(“Firstly”( “Secondly”)
(“Thirdly”)
He ran through broken glass windows and the team led by Ronad (vet)
saved his life and his leg with great love, tender care and of course
professional service.
Weeks later Babs (the nurse) clipped our very wooly Bramble to find a
huge abscess on his shoulder ! This was then sorted with pills and more love
and TLC !!
Months later Bramble was once again in the wars !! He caught his leg (the other back leg) in a
hedge and ruptured his stifle joint (the ligament) – so back to Ronad and
another operation, more love and TLC.
Bramble came through with flying colours.
I have to say that I have used 3 other vets/veterinary surgeries with
great results, but the Western Veterinary Clinic beats them all. Everyone in the clinic was so helpful,
concerning and just loved Bramble so much that he actually loved going there ! It is not an extraordinary story but a time I
will never forget and still “visit” often.
Very sadly Bramble was put down recently due to a terrible cough,
vomiting, with a growth in his throat.
This was a devastating blow to the clinic and our family, after 13 years
of joy.
-- End of Entry --
KERRY
Veterinary Service nominated:
AllCare Veterinary Practice, Park Road,
Killarney, Co Kerry - Vets Danny O’Sullivan,
Reason for Nomination:
Firstly I should start by telling you how much my dogs mean to me – they
mean the world to me.
Having such a professional, friendly and helpful practice in my home
town is absolutely invaluable.
Unfortunately 2006 was a very bad year, two of my dogs passed away. Holly died from auto-immune disease, a
horrible thing and
The vets did everything they could and were so supportive at that hard
time. Even one of the vet nurses
consoled me with her kind words on meeting her accidentally in a local shop
when I was in floods of tears. During
that time we also made plenty of out of hours calls and we were always met at
the vet practice promptly – even at Christmas and another time at
Thankfully 2007 has been a lot brighter and my other two dogs are
enjoying life to the full. Visits to
the vets are for routine things like vaccinations, Stronghold flea and worm
drops, weight checks and we are always met with helpful hints on our dog’s
general wellbeing and nutrition etc.
Nothing is too much trouble to the vet nurses who I have got to know as
well – getting things ordered in especially and ringing with queries, I know I
can pick up the phone at anytime, which means a lot.
I have learned a lot from them all.
I think they deserve to be acknowledged for such a great service.
Since writing the main part of this letter, my dog Phoebe was
spayed. The vet and the two vet nurses
made such a fuss of her and were so gentle with her. Everything went off smoothly, Thank God, and
as I write she is recovering – sleeping with her head resting on my foot !
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Hurley’s Veterinary Hospital, Brewery Road,
Tralee, Co Kerry – Patricia Somers and team
Tel 066-71297560
Reason for Nomination:
I have been attending the practice for the last 10 years and I have
always found them to be very kind, patient and friendly with great attention to
detail.
When my dog Sonna was in his last few weeks and his legs weren’t great
and I myself was ill at the same time, Patricia, one of the nurses, would call
to my house daily and give Sonna his medication and take him for a little walk.
When Sonna passed away they were a tremendous support and would ring me
to ask how I was and if I needed anything.
I still attend the clinic to this day with my cat who loves calling to
see them as we’re both greeted with a smile and receive 100% attention while
we’re there.
I don’t just regard it as going to the vet, I regard it as going to see
friends.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Kenmare Veterinary Centre, Mart Road, Kenmare, Co.
Kerry - Henk Offeriens and team Tel
064-42695
Reason for Nomination:
When we moved here to Kenmare
from
Henk Offeriens and his wife
Joanna are a pleasure to work with. All of the practice team are really
up to date on everything, using digital x-ray technology, in house testing
facilities and new and effective drug therapies. They are respectful, kind and
compassionate.
We recently lost our eldest
dog, Baxter, who had been an animal assisted therapy dog in the
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Treacy & Sheehan, 25
Market Street, Listowel, Co Kerry - Vet Paul Treacy Tel 068-21377
Reason for Nomination:
A winter’s tail:
Tiny waddled his way along our lawn during the hot summer of ’95. He sipped water from the hose-pipe, looked up
at us with his big liquid eyes and shared our hearts and home for years to
come.
A stray, playing along with the local kids by day, he was abandoned by
his playmates come bedtime. We took him
in and he easily became an important part of the family. He would meet us from work, protect us from
imagined dangers and made us all laugh with his lunatic antics.
Last year, the week before Christmas, he became lethargic then went off
his food and water. We knew he was about
13 or 14 years and we felt old-age was about to take him from us. We took him to the surgery and Paul pondered
over all possible causes of his illness.
Despite receiving injections, tablets and anti-biotics, it was obvious
“the little man” was slipping away.
In two days he began deteroriating more quickly and we tried to prepare
ourselves for what would be a very, very lonely Christmas without our little
friend.
Paul kept calling us at home to get an update and decided on 23rd
December to put him on a drip. To see such
a small helpless creature in such a low state was heart-wrenching. He would look at us, with trusting but dull
eyes which seemed to ask “what did I do wrong to deserve this?”.
On Christmas Eve, Paul let us take him home. He rang us many times to find out how he was
and asked us to bring him back into the surgery on Christmas day.
We met him there after dinner.
After he checking him over, Paul removed the drip from the little scrap
and told us he would try to build him up, then if Tiny became strong enough,
with our permission he would do an internal investigation. How could we not give little Tiny every
chance of living – he had always been there for us and now it was our turn to
be there for him.
On 2nd January, after completing a series of tests and an
internal investigation, Paul told us Tiny had an enlarged heart, an enlarged
liver and a “shadow” on his lung that could be cancerous. Paul constantly rang us with updates, knowing
that we were always anxious.
The compassion and understanding, which that man showed towards Tiny,
and us, gave us contant hope and earned him our eternal admiration for his
dedication. Our hopes were dashed when
Tiny took another little downturn and Paul decided to keep him in surgery. We were on a roller-coaster of emotions. We wanted Tiny home but we knew Paul was
doing his very best to give him every fighting chance.
Eventually, Paul called us and told us we could bring Tiny home. That night, at about
Slowly, and with great aftercare, Tiny rallied. He fought his way back, totally surprising us
all.
“He’ll never run the field again” Paul advised us. But with wonderful diagnosis, care from Paul
and the staff, combined with dedicated after care at home, well Paul, nine
months on, Tiny has the occasional mad dash around the field.
We know Tiny had an enlarged liver and a big heart, we’ve got the x-ray
pictures to prove it. Paul and his staff
also have big hearts – but we don’t have the “pictures” !!!
At all times, Paul explained everything which he diagnosed, in an easy
to understand way, never understating the seriousness of the situation. The only time he allowed himself to smile and
feel good about himself, was when Tiny was undergoing a routine check up and
gave him a good strong growl of defiance.
“Good man Tiny”, said Paul smiling.
We looked at each other and then at Paul and in our own minds said “Good
man Paul.”
Paul Treacy will never know the happiness he brought to us when he
brought little Tiny back from the jaws of death during those dark days of
winter 2006. He gave us the greatest
Christmas gift we have ever had – the gift of life of an old friend.
Every day we have Tiny is precious – Paul, Anne, Helena and Gina – so
are your skills – never underestimate how much they are held in high esteem.
-- End of Entry --
KILDARE
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animals First Veterinary
Hospital, Links
Business Park, Kilcullen, Co Kildare – Vet: Rachel Gordon
Tel 045-480478
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate my vet Rachel and her now partner and team,
because without her, Benson would not be here today.
We first found out about Rachel through a friend. Benson had been suffering with bad digestinal
problems and attended vet after vet without success. Within moments of meeting Rachel, she
diagnosed him and thank God we haven’t looked back since.
Benson was a lot younger then and down through the years Rachel has been
there for us all. Benson has had tumours
on his eye, to operations on his butt. I
remember one time poor Rachel was heading home on a well earned holiday, Benson
collapsed. We brough him to where Rachel
was working then. She was about to head
to the airport for her flight. When she
heard of Benson she stopped off to see him and to reassure us.
Since then Rachel has gone into parnership with Conor, another great
vet.
Benson is getting older now and has since been diagnosed with diabetes. Rachel has great patience and needed them
all, when she had to train me to administer the insulin needed to keep Benson
alive and the blood glucose readings and to adjust the insulin to them. Rachel didn’t hestitate in giving me her
mobile number so she could be there for me through it all.
There was a lot of teaching involved.
Benson has had it now for three years almost now and it has slowed him
down a little. We have had some bad
moments with this disease. He is almost
blind now – it’s amazing how they adapt.
Benson has had two strokes since but thanks to Rachel and Conor he has
bounced back. He walks every day out the
Curragh and trots like a Clydesdale and when we go to Wexford on holiday, I
have peace of mind that Rachel is at the other end of the phone if I need
her. Benson loves the beach and the
walks.
That is only a fraction of what this amazing vet does for us. So please, please consider her for this.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Newbridge Veterinary Clinic,
Morristown, Newbridge, Co Kildare - Mr D McHenry, Denis Hayes, Mrs S O’Leary,
vet nurses Evelyn Eustace and Yuliya Dmytriyeva (“Julia”) and team Tel 045-421555
Reason for Nomination:
We wish to recommend Newbridge Veterinary Clinic for this year’s
Veterinary Pet Care Award. For well over
30 years we have experienced, for our pets, top class care and great kindness
from Newbridge Veterinary Clinic.
Our little rescue dog, Shep, a collie of approx 2 years, life was saved
after suffering near fatal injuries following a vicious attack by no less than
5 dogs. He was rushed to Newbridge
Veterinary Clinic, was treated immediately and was literally brought back to
life.
The Newbridge staff said he was like a “patch-work quilt” when all his
injuries were bandaged.
During all his troubles he remained calm, his tail wagging all the
time. We, by chance, happened to see him
whilst leaving in a stray kitten (which they found a home for) and for us, it
was love at first sight.
All this happened one year ago and now Shep is a very valuable addition
to our home, trotting around, supervising the hens being fed and loves his game
of ball.
This is the kind of life Newbridge Veterinary Clinic made possible for
one little stray dog. Newbridge
Veterinary Clinic take time to listen to your story as if they have all of the
time in the world, as we often marvelled at on seeing the vast amount of cars
and vans parked down the avenue to the entrance gate, all times of day.
We cannot recommend them highly enough for your Veterinary Pet Care
Award 2007.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Vetcare,
Reason for Nomination:
Thanks to Vetcare my cat
Granny is still with me today, as she went missing for a while, and when she
came home she had a snare around her body and her back leg was hanging off.
I took her to Vetcare as I do
with all my cats, and put her in their care, it took one of the vets an hour
and a half to stich her back together, with many visits to vet care she is now
in top form again, with all their love, care and kindness they pulled her
through, they even took time to phone me to ask about Granny.
I bring all my cats to Vetcare
and would not bring them anywhere else, they are top vets , I don’t know what I
would do without them. Vetcare have done
so must for me, through good times and bad times they always have time to talk
to me and make me see its all for the best, when my pets had to be put to
sleep, so that is why I hope Vetcare get veterinary pet care aware.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Vet Care, Well Road,
Portlaoise, Co Laois – Vet Caroline Wallace Tel 057-8664841
Reason for Nomination:
I wish to nominate my vet.
My little dog Trixie was recently attacked by 4 other dogs. It all happened so quickly but by the time I
got to her she was covered in blood and was in complete shock and was breathing
very heavily.
Her injuries were so bad I didn’t think she would make it to the vets
that night. However not alone did she
make it through that night, but she also survived the whole ordeal.
This was all due to the kindness and professional skill of Caroline in
Vet Care. She was so good to Trixie and
was so determined that Trixie would make it through, I cannot thank her enough
or praise her enough too.
Trixie was a rescued little terrier but I am the only one Trixie ever
trusted, so she could be snappy towards others.
But Caroline finally made friends with Trixie during her time in the
vets and this is not an easy thing to do, so I know Caroline must have had
great patience with her and must have been very kind to her too.
If you knew Trixie you would also agree that Caroline deserves a
Veterinary Pet Care Award not alone for her veterinary skills, but for her
caring ability, enough to make a little cross terrier like her.
-- End of Entry --
LOUTH
Veterinary Service nominated:
Animal Health Veterinary Clinic, 5 St. Alphonsus Rd,
Dundalk, Co. Louth – Vet: Michael F. J Cahill
Tel 042-9357000
Reason for Nomination:
I was homed at 6 weeks old as
a kitten and gradually my owners let me outside to get used to my new home and
its neighbourhood. One evening while my owner was preparing tea I was just on
my way to get food and I had a terrible confrontation with another four legged
animal.
It made horrible growling
noises and took a big swipe at me. That wasn't all, when I hissed back he took
a bite at me. The pain was agony and I started to cry. I could barely walk. I
was hungry and frightened and needed help.
I went straight to my owner
and gave her a terrible fright. My paw had been very badly bitten. Promptly
though a phonecall was made and Michael my vet came to visit me. He didn’t like
the sound of this and came straight away. Afterall I was only a few weeks old
and defenseless.
My paw was so bad that
Michael told me that I would need surgery and that he thought it may have been
a fox or a that had taken a piece of my paw. That evening Michael collected me
to prepare for tomorrow’s surgery. He was so kind and promised to look after me
well. I was very anxious and sore but he reassured me.
The surgery was to try to
mend a nerve on my paw, this was tricky stuff. I was worried that I may
not be able to walk again or feel anything in my paw and I had been looking
forward to climbing trees with four paws. The next evening I woke up and was a
little sore but Michael told us that the operation was successful and
that we would have to wait a week or two to see how it had healed.
I was more at ease since the
operation and knew that Michael was there to look after me. Three weeks later I
noticed I could walk again and after plently of rest and some good meals
from my owners, I was fitter than ever.
I would like to take this
opportunity to thank Michael my vet because he the kindest and cleverist
veterinary surgeon I know. He put me at ease and fixed my paw. He made me and
my owners so very happy that they take me to see him for my checkups and I
never mind because he is so good.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
MAYO
Veterinary Service nominated:
Crossmolina Veterinary Clinic,
Chapel Street, Crossmolina, Co Mayo - Eamonn Connor, Vet Siobhan O’Malley, Vet
Nurse Julia Collins & Team Tel 096-31116
Reason for Nomination:
I am eager to recommend this practice for your award and especially
veterinary surgeon Siobhan O’Malley.
My favourite and best spaniel injured herself on barbed wire on the 6th
May this year (bank holiday weekend) and I was in the far west of Mayo in the
Nephin Bog mountains. A local farmer
recommended this veterinary practice to me and gave me the phone number.
The bitch had a bad laceration and as bleeding profusely and I knew I
had to get her attended to urgently.
I phoned the practice on Sunday morning and they could not have been
better. They called me to come straight
in. I drove straight there and was met
by their patient and kind receptionist Mrs Collins and then to veterinary
surgeon Ms O’Malley. There was blood
everywhere, all over my car, all over me and throughout the corridor of the
practice.
Ms. O’Malley was great, very kind and very, very efficient. She sedated the dog, confirmed the wound was
superficial (to my great relief). She
then sutured the wound and administered anti biotics and helped me put her back
in the car, changing the bedding for us too.
No complaints about the mess I’d made of their surgery – they had
cleaned that up too before I left and this on a Sunday of a bank holiday
weekend.
The BEST vet practice I have ever been to !!
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Hanaghan Veterinary Hospital, Ballyvary , Co Mayo -
Vet: Runa Hanaghan, vet nurse Elisha Fahy & Team Tel 094-9289007
Reason for Nomination:
They are fantastic!!!
Most of our animals have had a trip to the vet this year. When your animal
is ill, no matter how minor, it's an anxious time and I really can rest assured
knowing that they are all in such good hands.
There have been some worrying
and traumatic times in the past where not only compassion was very much shown,
but also every possible avenue was explored. Runa will always do as many
tests and push for any results that are needed to get to the bottom of any
problems. She is very open about courses of treatment, reasons for it and
possible causes that need to be eliminated. I would certainly wish to
have a doctor like her!!
Elisha is very efficient and helpful. She also has her own nurse clinics,
which is a very beneficial service. The practise as a whole is well run
and their computer system makes everything extremely efficient and
organised. It's reassuring to know that all the medical records can be
brought up at a moments notice and payment is also made straight forward.
The practise is always clean. They have a notice board with advice on
feeding and training and also case studies on exceptional animals.
Your animal is always made to feel special and well cared for and that their
condition is of great concern to the veterinary staff not just you!!!
Thank you for always looking after my babies and being there whenever we need
you.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Skeldale Veterinary Clinic, High Road, Ballinrobe, Co.
Mayo - Vet: Conal Finnerty, colleague Aisling Niland and team Tel 094 95 41980
Reason for Nomination:
We are convinced that 'our'
cat Gustav is actually The Cat Who Fell To Earth crossed with ET. He just
arrived one day, in a pretty bad way and, after we had got him patched up, he
took up residence. He is obsessed with technology, whether it is computers,
printers, TVs, DVD players, CD players, or whatever. Usually, after one of his
'close observations' some part will not be working. We think he must have
needed a CD drive motor or whatever it is that no longer works for one of his
projects. He lies in wait for the postman and couriers, especially when we are
expecting orders for any electronic components. He feeds his tail into the
automatic feed of the scanner and then walks or sits on the laptop keyboard
until the printout is produced.
Unfortunately he also has FIV - but this does not stop him in his plans, rather
it offers further scope. There is so much interesting and useful equipment in a
veterinary surgery! Wait until people are talking and then hop off the
examination table and prowl the shelves.
We are so lucky that this has not upset our vet, Conal Finnerty, or his nurse
Aisling. In fact, rather than finding his antics exasperating, as we sometimes
do, they are entertained by him.
A year ago we were trying to accept that, although his life had been longer
than we had expected, it was coming to an end. However, under Conal and
Aislings care, Gustav's health has improved enormously. His teeth and gum
problems, a result of the FIV, meant he had been unable to groom himself for a
while and there was a limit to what he would let us do. Conal and Aisling
shaved much of his fur off. It was somewhat reminiscent of that David Beckham
style! Now though, his fur has grown back luxuriantly, helped by Aisling's
grooming while he was staying with them.
Thanks to Conal's dental care, and his continuing research and prescribing of
appropriate painkillers, Gustav can now do a certain amount of grooming himself
- probably rather more than he chooses to!
He has stayed with them quite
a lot recently and it has not been easy for them. On one occasion he took
exception to Conal giving him a tablet and bit him - so his teeth have
definitely improved! Now Conal has started giving him his tablets in his food,
as we have to do.
They have also discovered his habit of only eating the food he wants to eat,
carefully picking out the bits he doesn't like and putting them to one side of
the bowl, and have devised strategies to try to get him to eat the healthier
food, rather than just the 'junk' food and the gravy that he likes. They are
amused by his prodigious appetite and his ways of letting you know he'd like a
meal - now.
Despite being deaf now, he is
very good at communicating!
Apart from Gustav, Conal looks after our three collies and our two pet goats.
When one sick animal was dying, but could not be moved, Conal came out 40
miles, on a Sunday evening, to put her down, so that we did not have to move
her. He had been working all day and still had several calls to make. He joked
that he thought he would need to get a stand-in for himself for his own
wedding. I know he gave similar out-of-hours care and sympathy to a friend who
had a very sick cat. Nothing is too much trouble where a sick animal is
concerned.
Conal took over a very well respected veterinary clinic, expanded on it and
made it his own. Despite the distance, and other good veterinary clinics
opening in the meantime, I know he has kept the business of petlovers who
regard the distance travelled as well worth it for the care and treatment he
gives their pets.
He is also very considerate about expanding Aisling's veterinary knowledge and
takes the time to do this during consultations, giving her practical experience
in whichever subject in veterinary nursing she is studying in her college
course at the time. Aisling herself is a kind, gentle, and well informed nurse,
with a very good way with animals (and people!).
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
DeLacy, Clancy and Kent, Clonmel
Road, Carrick on Suir, Co Tipperary – Vet Ger Clancy
Tel 051-641640
Reason for Nomination:
SCAMP is a springer spanial,
about 11 years old. He was got from a dog pound near
In 1999 I was assigned to the
Customs Dog unit based at
Because of the demands placed
on Scamp he has had a chequered medical history. However I have been fortunate
enough to have had Ger Clancy as my vet. Following a large drug seizure in a
wooded area near Dungarvan, Scamp ingested some cannabis as he tried to
retreive packages. He was on the verge of dying. Ger had him pumped and he made
a full recovery.
On another search Scamp
slipped and was ripped by steel. Ger put him back together.
There was many more emergencies
during his work years. Finally after 6 years of hard work Scamps’ back legs
gave out. Ger opperated on him and implanted artificial ligaments in both his
hind quarters. Scamp is now retired. He has had a very successful career.
Because of the care,
attention and dedication he has received from Ger Clancy, he enjoys retirement
on the beaches and woodlands around Tramore.
Its not often you avail of
the chance to say thanks. On this occasion I owe a lot to Ger for his
dedication, professionalism and consideration over the last number of years. I
would like to nominate him for this award.
Thank you.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Mulcair Veterinary Clinic, Newport, Co
Reason for Nomination:
The only thing that eases the
pain of losing a most beloved pet is knowing that she couldn't have been in
better hands. This is just one of many reasons I would like to nominate a most
deserving vet, Sean Coffey, for vet of the year award.
It was on the night of
Over the next 6 days, while Symphony was recovering, I saw much more of what
Sean could do and there is no doubt that it was both his ability as a surgeon
and his never ending patience (with me as an owner and Symphony as a patient!)
that saved her life and gave us another 6 months with her.
One of the nurses told me, that Sean stayed up for the better part of the first
two days after surgery to care for our dog and I will never forget the
night we were visiting Symphony in hospial, it was quite late and Sean,after
another long day, was just getting her ready for the night, checking her drips,
giving her medication etc when he, just after getting new clean bedding for
her, sat into her crate with his thermomoter to check that her red lamp was
warm enough and then settled her down.
It’s no surprise that
Symphony was very fond of him!
The consistant and unfaultering dedication Sean gave Symphony over the course
of her illness I will forever be grateful. On many more occasions over the next
six months we had to bring her to Sean for tummy problems and false emergencies
but unfortunatly on
It was after hours as usual and we knew Sean was off work recovering from
surgery himself. We met Coleman on arrival, followed shortly by Anna who also
cared very attentively for Symphony previously. More emergency surgery was
needed and we went home for a few hours.
On returning to the surgery I
noted Sean’s jeep outside and fair enough there he was after coming in to
attend ever though he was recovering himself.
She survived the surgery but her heart gave way a few hours after and
she passed away. Devastated and heartbroken but grateful for getting the usual
110%.
Its not just Symphony that Sean has worked on for us. Our labrador Bailey has
hyperthyroidism and over many months of monitoring with Sean’s help he has
managed to lose 15kgs and also our other Great Dane Jack who happens to be
pretty big and suffers from an allergy to vets but Sean has displayed vast
patience whenever treating him.
Having been a pet owner nearly all of my life and coming from a farming
background, I have had dealings with many vets, I have never met a more
thorough and capable person and I cannot thank him enough.
I hope very much that you consider Sean for the award for he is a truly
deserving candidate.
Kind Regards
=== END OF ENTRY ===
WEXFORD
Veterinary Service nominated:
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate my veterinary team because I want to tell everyone
about the way my dog Sam was treated by them.
We got Sam from the dog pound when she was only 8 weeks old and we only
saved her by a day. She is a
Labrador/terrier cross. So when it was
time to have her first injections we took her to the
About 2 years later Sam started to have phantom pregnancies. We didn’t
know what was wrong so Chris came out to see her and we had to decide whether
to have her neutered or let her have puppies.
We decided to have her neutered and took her to the Arena where Chris
did the operation. When the time came to
bring Sam back to have her stitches removed – she decided outside the Arena she
didn’t want to go in ! Not wanting to
put her through the trauma of going in, I went in to Chris and explained that I
had Sam in the car but she refused to get out.
Chris said that there was no problem and that he would come out to our
house and remove her stitches there.
True to his word he came out the following evening and removed her
stitches. When I asked him what was the
charge – he said its fine you don’t owe me anything.
Then just 2 years ago Sam was knocked down by a car. Of all the dogs on our road she was watched
24 hours of the day – a real freak accident.
I rang the Arena straight away – Hilly the receptionist answered the
call and said someone would be out right away.
Within 20 minutes Olivia, another vet in Chris’ practice arrived. She arrived quicker than any ambulance or
doctor would have done. She was so
gentle and re-assuring and asked us to follow her in to the Arena with
Sam. On arrival Olivia was there
waiting. The x-ray showed that Sam had a
broken elbow and her back had been injured.
She had no use in her back legs
but thankfully had no internal injuries.
The next day we went to visit Sam and we were told that any time we
wanted to come and see Sam we could and we could stay as long as we wanted with
her, that it was no problem. The care,
love and kindness that Sam received there was just unbelievable.
Liz, Karen and Emma the 3 veterinary nurses were just unbelievable – so
kind and gentle – the way they handled Sam and talked to her like a baby when
they were taking her out to change her bed.
Clive, another vet in the practice, also looked after Sam during her 9
days stay and was very good with her – another very nice gentle vet. The Arena was just spotlessly clean and all
the animals were so well cared for.
Sam’s recovery was just incredible.
This just wouldn’t have been possible with any other veterinary
team. I have never seen such caring
people all working together, I just couldn’t say a bad word about any of
them. Sam was back to full health in
about 4 months, jumping and running about as normal. I will never be grateful enough for all they
did for Sam. When anyone asks “do you
know a good vet?” I say there is only one practice that I would recommend and
that’s the Arena.
Olivia came to see Sam about 3 times since her accident – and this wsa
on her time off. She bought Sam a
beautiful little cuddly dog toy – which Sam cuddles up to every night
since. I don’t know of any other person
that would do this. Every time I visit
the Arena since – up to the present time, no matter who is on duty, the first
question I get asked is “how is Sam?”
most others wouldn’t even remember the dog’s name ! And if you didn’t have the money at the time
to pay – they’d say no problem, it’s alright whenever you have it.
Finally, I would just like to say that I entered this competition – not
for the winning aspect, but just to let people know that all the staff at the
Arena Veterinary Hospital are just really incredible people and should be so
proud of what they do there is just no practice that even comes close. And it’s so reassuring to know that they are
always there for you no matter what.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Gubbins & O Shea
Veterinary Centre,
Tel 053-9145755
Reason for Nomination:
Nothing is too much trouble where the dogs are concerned, day or night,
he will be there if needed. His
dedication cannot be faulted. God bless
his parents for allowing him to follow his passion, most vets are only
interested in the big farms and big money.
Richard is entirely different and cares so much for the smaller animals.
It is such a relief to know my precious show dogs are in such good hands
when needed. My heart was broken having
my toy poodle put to sleep at 15 ½ years of his love and constant
companionship, but Richard was wonderful about it all.
I’m an O.A.P. so a bit of kindness goes a long way these days and my
dogs mean everything to me. So in my heart and soul I can recommend Richard
Bramley to anyone as a good caring man, who makes life a lot easier for old
folk like myself.
God bless the man.
How can I describe my vet, a man who has become a friend because of all
the dogs we have, who need constant attention of a vet with the oldies getting
problems with their age. So my first thoughts would be caring, compassion. He tries to make the passing of euthanasia of
a dog more gentle by saying all the right things to make you feel better. And as this had just happened to me, my toy
poodle was my soul mate – wherever I went he was at my side, for weeks we tried
to get the courage together to do this deed, and when Richard finally came to
the house he knew we were in bits. He
smoothed the way like no other vet has ever done.
He tends to all our nine dogs who are show dogs. The retired ones get the same care and
attention off Richard regardless of their age.
I have in many years (37) of showing dogs never had a vet who takes the
time and has the patience with each and everyone. Today sadly its all about money but not with
this guy. He is one in a million and we
have peace of mind knowing all our dogs are in his care.
God bless him and may he stay in our area forever.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Pet Vet,
Tel 051 445484
Reason for Nomination:
As all caring pet owners are
aware, when a little puppy or kitten enters your home that your life is going
to be changed by them forever. Having a pet shapes your life and your lifestyle
for the duration of their lives with us. Anyone who has ever had and loved a
pet will understand the sadness that is involved when their pet dies.
This year we lost two pets, our cat Muffy and our dog Hermie within 5 months of
each other. Both pets enriched our lives in their own unique way!
Muffy, our cat, had been rescued and hand reared by us never having been fed by
his mother. Muffy was a strong character, the dominant cat of the family! He
was known to chase dogs out of our garden but on the other hand he could be so
gentle. The bond that was there between us and him since the day he was born
was evident throughout his life with us.
Hermie, our dog, was also an animal that was in need of home. Hermie was a
beautiful, loyal black sheepdog cross. Everybody loved Hermie - gentle and
loveable. He shared a house with 5 cats. He always looked out for them and
regularly checked their whereabouts. He was everything that you could wish for
in a pet!
Both pets were lucky enough to have had good health throughout their lives.
With regular check-ups to Annette she looked after their health from their
puppy / kitten vaccinations right throughout their lives. At the end, she was
there for both of them - attempting everything that was medically possible to
make their final days and hours as comfortable as possible for them.
We would like to nominate Annette Quegan for this award because she was there
for us and for our pets when we needed her. We are eternally grateful to
Annette for her total commitment to our pets throughout their lives - no matter
when we rang her, she always came to attend to them . She even called in to see
how they were doing as she was passing - way beyond the call of duty!
We would like to thank Annette for her kindness to us after our pets passed
away and for her excellent and professional care of our pets throughout their
lives.
=== END OF ENTRY ===
Veterinary Service nominated:
Pet Vet,
Reason for Nomination:
I would like to nominate Pet Vet for the professional and dedicated
service they provide. All types of pets
and their owners can be assured of a warm welcome at Pet Vet. Greeted with a smile and concern for the
pet.
Luckey, a collie pup I got at six weeks old, she was very precious,
idolised and spoiled rotten. So
intelligent, faithful and admired by all she met. I will always be grateful and thankful to
Annette for all the operations etc Luckey had over the years, made it possible
for her to reach almost 15 years old.
Annette was always available on the phone 24/7 if need to assure me and give advice.
To the girls in the clinics, always so helpful and understanding.
To Caroline who on
So you see, they do fantastic work, both for the pets and their
owners. For the immence joy and relief
when your pet recovers, to the other side of the coin, when luck runs out.
My heart is still broken, first time in 51 years. I don’t have my special friend – a dog. I’m confident both Annette and Caroline and
staff will continue to give excellent care and attention to every pet who
visits Pet Vet.
Thank you for reading my nomination and best of luck with your difficult
decision.
-- End of Entry --
Veterinary Service nominated:
Bairbre O’Malley Veterinary
Hospital, Kilmaintain
Place, Bray, Co Wicklow – entire team
Tel 01-2723857
Reason for Nomination:
Four years ago this month, two boys would enter our lives – Del Boy and
Rodney, two red eared terrapins. At a
time when we needed some joy, fun and laughter, returned to our house due to
the loss of my father a year prior.
As their name suggests, they were a comical pair, the boys were
“rescued” as their previous owner received a new go-kart for Christmas and had
lost interest in his terrapins.
Therefore faith intervened and we all found one another.
Two years ago, the smallest, “Rodney” showed some signs of illness. Bairbre was recommended to us as an expert in
this field and it was only the best for our boys. Having duly contacted her office we were
given an immediate appointment. Two hours later we arrived in Bray from Carlow
and were greeted warmly by her staff team who also enquired as to how we were
too (we obviously looked the worse for wear) after 2 hours travelling with an
ill terrapin who couldn’t travel without his partner Del Boy, tho insisted on
sitting on the dashboard to the amusement of other drivers who would pull lup
alongside us at traffic lights.
Bairbre greeted us in a very friendly and warm manner and proceeded to
do a thorough but gentle examination on our adored Rodney, followed by an MOT
(Maintenance Of Turtle) on Del Boy.
Bairbre listened intently to our concerns for Rodney’s health and duly
answered all our questions in a professional, knowledgable manner.
She was very positive in her approach and this allayed fears. Over the weeks and months that followed
Bairbre always found the time to see us, often at only a couple of hours
notice, she never turned us away.
She would pesonally speak to you also if you had a question or
query. Due to inconclusive test results
for Rodney’s illness, Bairbre decided to search for answers further afield in
Once when I suggested an ultra sound, Bairbre jumped at the idea and
proceeded to make an appointment for us in UCD Vet College, where Rodney
underwent a scan (the first time performed in UCD on a terrapin) under the
supervision of Bairbre and her team.
Once again Bairbre went above and beyond the call expected of a vet, and
for this we will always be truly grateful.
However having done her absolute best (there is no doubt in our minds),
sadly poor Rodney died in August 2006.
As you can imagine we were lost and heartbroken without Rodney as was
Bairbre and her team when they returned our call, followed a few weeks later by
a beautiful hand written card from her to sympathise with us on our loss and
how she reassured us as owners we could not have done more.
How many busy vets do you know who would take the time to set and write
kind and thoughful words in a card to let you know they were thinking of you
? That is in essence why I believe that
both Bairbre and her team deserve some recognition for the wonderful hard
diligent work they do on a daily basis.
I can honestly say I have never met before or since, such deserving
winners.
The story does not finish there.
Two weeks after Rodney died our Del Boy appeared sick, lost and lonely
(as were his owners). Once again we
travelled to Bray (this time without Del on the dashboard, we knew he was very
sick) and over the weeks and months that followed we followed down the same
road as poor Rodney had and after months of appointments, tests,
hospitalisation etc poor Del would also pass away 1 year and 5 days after
Rodney.
The care he received throughout this time was “exceptional” and no stone
was left unturned in Bairbre’s quest for a cure. I remember early one morning receiving a call
from Bairbre, it began with “I couldn’t sleep last night thinking about
I would like to nominate Bairbre and her team for the highest award
possible, because of the high standard of veterinary care she demonstrated to
us over the last few years.
Thank you
PS I am not the proud owner of two tortoises, Albert and Alfie, also
under the care of Bairbre and her wonderful team.
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Veterinary Service nominated:
Cloverhill Veterinary,
Glenealy, Co Wicklow - Vet Gillian Hick,
colleague Nicola and team
Tel 0404-44505
Reason for Nomination:
I have had to visit several vets and veterinary practices during my
life, having had pets all my life.
I have been happy on occasions with some parts of services
provided. But it was not until I luckily
happened on Gillian Hick and her staff, that I really knew what a good vet did.
She is not only an excellent vet, she is the most compassionate,
considerate and caring person I know.
She is part friend and social worker.
Her job entails counselling people at their most vulnerable, when they
loose their friend and companion, “their pet.”
She goes way beyond the call of duty when dealing with the animals
themselves and just as importantly their owners. It is a very demanding job she does and as
far as I am concerned no one does it better.
She is “simply the best.”
Her assistant Nicola, has learned from the master. This makes Cloverhill Veterinary practice the
one and only for me.
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