New veterinary practice open in Charlesland
CHARLESLAND has a new veterinary practice in Petcare Vets which opened at the start of July.
Principal vet Mairead Kilbride MVB and veterinary assistant Alex Shortt BAgrSc want to look after the well-being of their patients, prevent future illnesses, and ensure that families suffer the least possible amount of stress. Mairead set the practice up with her husband Simon O’Connor, who practices as a vet in Roundwood. Alex does all the nursing and running the practice.
‘We are your local vets,’ said Mairead. ‘Our other motto is “taking care of pets, taking care of people”’. Mairead said that they provide a very high standard of care to cats, dogs, rabbits, and other pets, and they are very mindful of the importance of keeping their owners informed. ‘We place a lot of importance on communicating effectively with clients,’ said Mairead.
‘We ensure that they understand what’s going on with their pets, and how to care for them.’ It’s a clinic for the local community to just pop in. Alex and Mairead have been very active in the Charlesland community to date hosting a family fun day with East Coast FM and supporting the local Intercultural Jam, promoting diversity in the community. They will also be hosting a dog walk on Greystones beach on the 30th of September to encourage responsible dog walking and all are welcome.
Petcare Vets want to provide a holistic approach for pets and their owners. Starting from the end of October, clients can avail of a health plan whereby they can pay a monthly fee in return for unlimited visits to the vet. ‘We could end up catching things a bit earlier,’ said Mairead.
Animal dentistry is a special interest of Mairead’s and she has done further training on dental work in dogs and cats.
They have an in-house dental X-Ray machine, which is quite rare and makes extractions a lot less traumatic for the patient. The practice is equipped for all eventualities and surgeries, with oxygen, emergency drugs and a large kennelling area on-site. They do spays, neutering, dental work and will look after every aspect of your pet’s care.
Mairead graduated from UCD 11 years ago, and Bray native Alex four years ago. They have both travelled and worked all over the world and gained invaluable experience. Mairead lives in Glen of the Downs where she and her husband Simon, a native of the area, have a sheep farm.
Petcare Vets support Wicklow Animal Welfare. They have small items for sale at the practice, and welcome any donation towards the charity. Catch Alex and Mairead on social media, visit www.facebook.com/petcarevets.ie and see what the clinic is up to.