The Irish Blue Cross recently marked 80 years of providing affordable and compassionate veterinary care to pets in need.
The celebration took place at The Mansion House, Dublin where the Lord Mayor, Emma Blain presented special recognition awards to two the charity’s long-standing volunteer board members.
Founded in 1945, the animal welfare charity has been at the forefront of animal welfare in the Dublin area, providing low-cost veterinary care to pet owners who find private veterinary care prohibitive. Since their foundation, over half a million sick and injured pets have been treated, and the demand for affordable veterinary care continues to grow every year. The veterinary team also offer help and advice to current and future owners, helping them to be responsible pet owners.
While the charity began its mobile veterinary services in 1953 with one mobile clinic, it now operates a mobile veterinary clinic service which serves communities across ten locations in Dublin, each weeknight, providing vital help and advice to some of the most vulnerable members of society and their pets.
At the event, the charity honoured two long-standing board members and three long-standing volunteers, presenting them with special recognition awards for their tireless work in supporting the organisation’s vision.
Speaking at the event, The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emma Blain said: “This event is a testament to the unwavering dedication of those who have made The Irish Blue Cross what it is today. The charity is a pillar of compassion and vital care in our community, and we are incredibly proud of all they have achieved over the past 80 years.
In fact, The Irish Blue Cross highlights something deeply important: the bonds we share with our pets are profound and meaningful. But these bonds go both ways. The work that the charity carries out – providing affordable veterinary care, emergency assistance, and supporting the welfare of animals – helps to ensure that these bonds are not broken by financial hardship or adversity.”
Declan Duggan, Chairman of The Irish Blue Cross continued: “As we celebrate our 80th year of caring for sick and injured pets, the demand for our services has never been greater. So many families are struggling to make ends meet with the increased cost of living, so it’s vital we can continue to care for as many pets as possible. Looking ahead, we remain committed to our mission of ensuring every pet, regardless of its owner’s financial circumstances, has access to the care it deserves. However, we simply can’t continue to do this without our dedicated staff, volunteers and our generous supporters and funders.”
For more information about The Irish Blue Cross and how you can support its vital work, visit www.bluecross.ie