Becoming a vet is a childhood dream for many, but what really happens inside a veterinary clinic? On Saturday, 6th September, you can find out during our Opening Day!
Our clinic is a team effort, with many people working together to keep your pets healthy.
Here in our Lusk clinic, the first person you’ll meet is Ewa, our wonderful receptionist. She books appointments, answers your questions, and can even advise you on your pet’s diet. She also supports the team behind the scenes, while making sure your wait is as pleasant as possible, especially during difficult moments.
We also have two fantastic nurses: Skye and Rebecca. They prepare patients for surgery, monitor recovery, and are always ready to cuddle a new puppy. They’ll give you great advice to help your pet grow healthy and confident, and they can help with diets or dental care. Vets rely on them for everything, from lab work to anaesthesia.
And then there are the vets: Peter and myself, Carla. You’ll find us in consultations, surgeries, or hospital care (and sometimes joking about hiding in the X-ray room!). We both have years of experience, just look at our grey hairs!
Peter is an outstanding surgeon, operating from nose to tail. Though new to Dublin, clients follow him from Dundalk to Lusk.
I love consultations, talking with owners, involving them in treatment plans, and understanding their personal situations to offer the best options for their pets.
Together, we make a great team, and we’d love to show you what goes on behind the scenes.
If you’d like to learn more about our work or the veterinary profession, come visit us on Opening Day!
Facial rejuvenation in acupuncture, also known as cosmetic acupuncture, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the face and body. This process aims to improve blood flow, stimulate collagen production, and enhance skin elasticity. The treatment may help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and improve overall skin tone and texture. Sessions often include body acupuncture to address underlying health issues that may affect skin appearance, promoting a holistic balance. Results typically require multiple sessions for noticeable effects.
Facial Massage Cupping is a gentle therapy that uses small suction cups on the face to stimulate the skin and muscles. Facial cupping uses soft silicone or glass cups designed for delicate facial tissue. The gentle suction promotes Qi and increases blood circulation, boosts collagen production, reduces puffiness, and may help improve skin tone and elasticity. This natural technique is often used to achieve a brighter, firmer, and more youthful appearance. Follow the directions on the diagram for facial cupping 3 repetitions of 10 strokes on each area of the diagram. Ensure you do not use too much suction or there is a possibility of bruising.
Finish with using a Jade roller to cool the skin.
Essential oils can be a great addition to your skincare routine—but only when used properly and diluted with a carrier oil, ( typically 1–2% dilution: about 2 drops to 10 ml of carrier oil for facial use ).
Do a patch test before using any essential oil, especially on sensitive skin.
Here’s a brief guide to essential oils best suited for each skin type:
Avoid citrus oils before sun exposure. Consult a specialist if pregnant, nursing, or have any medical conditions.
Important Notes:
Using Essential facial oils 2–3 times per week is recommended for most people to achieve the benefits and avoid overstimulating the skin. Essential oils, when properly diluted with a carrier oil, can be used daily for facial massage if your skin can tolerate it, but many experts suggest starting with 2–3 times weekly and adjusting as needed.
If you choose to massage daily, keep sessions brief (5–10 minutes) and always monitor for irritation.
Skin Type Best Oils Best Carrier Oils
Oily/Acne-Prone: Tea tree, lavender, clary sage, lemongrass, geranium
Jojoba, grape-seed.
Dry: Sandalwood, chamomile, lavender, myrrh, rose, Sweet almond, avocado.
Sensitive: German/Roman chamomile, lavender, rose, helichrysum Calendula, rosehip, jojoba.
Combination: Geranium, ylang-ylang, frankincense, lavender
Jojoba, grape-seed.
Mature/Aging Frankincense, rose, sandalwood, carrot seed, neroli
Rosehip, evening primrose
Inexpensive Beauty Tea (Morning Glow Recipe)
Morning Tea for Glowing Skin: Turmeric & Ginger Infusion
Starting your day with the right tea can do wonders for your skin. Morning tea for glowing skin is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce blemishes and brighten your complexion naturally.
Ingredients:
In Wellness
Susan
www.susangrahamcoaching.com
By Jon Kavanagh
How long does it take to get a dog? Well, in some cases around sixty years. At the age of six or seven I shattered the domestic harmony of the gate lodge where we lived by asking if I could get a dog. In a performance worthy of Rumpole of the Bailey, my father, a good man given to catastrophizing, rose to his feet to put forward the case against. “Dogs are a nuisance and Willie (a local farmer he didn’t see eye to eye with, to put it mildly) would say our dog killed his sheep and take every penny we have off us”, he thundered, as he won his case hands down. A year or two later on seeing a pack of west highland terriers performing in a TV circus act, my mother said, “Ah, I would love one of those”. Embolden by her alliance, I appealed the previous ruling. But good old Rumpole once again donned his wig and gown. The verdict – NO DOGS ALLOWED.
The decades sped as I grappled with the swings and roundabouts of life, with little thought of a dog entering my mind. But then as my beard developed a salt and pepper look and my brow produced more furrows than the fields at the national ploughing championship, unexpectedly my canine clock began to tick loudly. It’s now or never I thought. So, on a Saturday morning, I found myself test walking potential adoptees in a dog shelter. Some were boisterous and too hard to handle for a first-time owner. With others the chemistry just wasn’t there. As I was about to leave, one of the fantastic volunteers who work there said “Cyril is here as well”, pointing out a short legged black and white Jack Russell in the pen. Following a successful meet and greet, my credentials were checked and the adoption papers signed. Cyril enthusiastically leaped into the car, bringing my search for a new companion to an end.
Getting a dog entails a substantial amount of change and expense: regular walks, visits to the vet, medication, grooming, finding a reliable dog sitter when going away etc. Be prepared for a huge increase in house cleaning duties, as paw prints and hairs invade places you didn’t know existed. The shared moments of joy like the over-the-top welcome home, cuddles on the sofa and zoomies make it all worthwhile though. For ‘walk’ read ‘meander’. I’ve had to learn the patience of a zen master, as Cyril pays his respect to every tree, lamppost and random object we pass along the way. Dogs deserve the Nobel prize for their ability to break down social barriers. People who otherwise wouldn’t notice each other stop to chat and introduce their pets with the instruction “say hello”. Teddy, Wilson and Maverick are just some of the dogs and their humans I have befriender, as we visit the parklands of Swords, New Bridge House and Malahide Castle. I’m glad I finally found the dog I asked for all those years earlier. I guess what’s worth having is worth waiting for. At the moment dog shelters have record numbers seeking their forever homes.
By Dave Kavanagh
During recent claims I have processed for clients (death claims, serious illness claims and income protection claims) there was something that they all had in common. None of them knew what cover they actually had in place. Some were unsure whether there was sufficient cover in place to clear their mortgage (which is often the case. Consider all of the people that took 6 months’ payment breaks during Covid. Their mortgage protection cover continued to reduce while their mortgage balances slightly increased.) Some thought they had serious illness cover because we had discussed it a couple of years back, but they never actually got around to commencing it. It was yet another reminder that most people do not know the important details of plans that they pay regularly for. As people’s circumstances change, it’s important to be up to date with knowing what you are actually paying for. Here is the very least that you should know about any protection plans that you have in place:
Life Cover: How much cover is there? When does it expire? Is it dual or joint? Does it have a conversion option? Is it level, increasing or decreasing? How much does it cost?
Income Protection: What is the deferred period? (The length of time you have to be off work due to illness or injury before payments commence). What level of cover do I have? Up to what age will payments continue if I could never return to work again? How much does it cost? Have I claimed my tax relief? (I.P. premiums are tax deductible).
Serious Illness Cover: A.K.A. Critical Illness Cover or Specified Illness Cover. What level of cover do I have? Is it stand alone or accelerated cover? Is it dual or joint? When does it expire? Do I have the option to extend cover without further medical evidence? If you don’t know those details, it’s time to get out the paperwork and find out. You’ll be glad you did.
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3. wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.
Welcome to Holistic Healing – a new feature by Swords-based Chinese medicine practitioner Susan Graham. This month Susan looks at how traditional Chinese Medicine techniques can greatly aid people experiencing fertility issues.
By Susan Graham
A little about myself: I have relocated to Dublin after 34 years away, to be nearer family and grandchildren. My clinical treatments in the West of Ireland was predominantly Pain, Fertility, Fertility Coaching and Clinical Hypnotherapy. I succeeded where others have failed due to the unique techniques I have acquired and used in my practice over many years.
As a Chinese medicine practitioner for nearly 2 decades fertility and pain was my expertise, has its roots stretching back thousands of years, this type of medicine offers a holistic approach to health and wellness, especially in the area of fertility. This ancient system consists of various skills/techniques, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and lifestyle changes, all aimed at restoring balance and harmony within the body.
One of the primary benefits of Chinese medicine in enhancing fertility is its focus on regulating the body’s energy, or “Qi.” According to Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), imbalances in Qi can lead to various health issues, including infertility. Acupuncture is often used to stimulate specific points on the body, promoting blood flow to the reproductive organs, while also reducing stress while also balancing your hormones. Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve ovarian function, increase the thickness of the uterine lining, and enhance overall reproductive health even while going through IVF.
Herbal medicine is another important element of TCM that can support fertility. Practitioners often tailor fit herbal formulas to address individual conditions, such as irregular menstrual cycles, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or low sperm count and enhance sperm quality. These natural remedies can help regulate hormonal levels, improve ovulation, and, providing a safe alternative or complement to mainstream fertility treatments.
In addition to these therapies, Chinese medicine emphasises the importance of lifestyle and dietary choices. By favouring a balanced diet rich in nutrients, as well as promoting stress-reduction techniques like Tai Chi or meditation, TCM encourages overall well-being, which is crucial for fertility.
Moreover, the holistic nature of Chinese medicine addresses not just the physical aspects of fertility but also the emotional and psychological factors. Infertility can be a source of significant stress and anxiety; TCM’s focus on emotional well-being which will promote a more positive mindset, which is beneficial for both conception and overall health.
In summary, Chinese medicine offers a comprehensive approach to fertility, combining acupuncture, herbal therapies, and lifestyle modifications to promote reproductive health. Its emphasis on balance and holistic well-being can be a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance their fertility naturally.
www.meizenclinic.com
www.susangrahamcoaching.com
Hello, Lusk Local readers! I’m Dr. Carla Lluch, a veterinarian with experience in both small clinics and large hospitals. I’m thrilled to collaborate with you to share practical advice for keeping your pets happy and healthy.
We’re enjoying glorious sunshine these days—perfect for soaking up vitamin D with our four-legged companions! But as temperatures rise, so do risks for pets. Here’s my summer survival guide to keep your furry family safe:
Age Matters: Senior pets struggle to regulate their body temperature. Avoid long walks in the heat, and always carry fresh water for them.
Health Conditions: Does your pet have heart or respiratory issues? Skip midday walks. Opt for early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler.
Pavement Check: Place your back of hand on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws! Stick to grassy, shaded areas.
Cat Cool-Downs
By Jack Shanley
“From the World of John Wick: Ballerina” carves out a compelling, if at times familiar, corner within the revered John Wick universe. Starring Ana de Armas as Eve Macarro, a vengeance-driven assassin, the film embraces the franchise’s signature blend of hyper-stylized action and intricate underworld lore, while attempting to forge its own identity.
The narrative centres on Eve, a ballerina trained in the deadly traditions of the Ruska Roma, as she hunts down those responsible for her father’s murder. The film opens with a brutal flashback, immediately establishing Eve’s profound grief and the genesis of her relentless pursuit of retribution. This personal stake lends emotional weight to the otherwise gloriously chaotic action sequences. De Armas delivers a committed performance, channelling a simmering rage that fuels her character’s every move. The film smartly intercuts gruelling ballet practice with combat drills, visually linking the artistry of dance to the brutal precision of assassination.
Fans of the John Wick saga will find much to appreciate. The familiar neon-drenched aesthetics, the subtle hints at the vast network of assassins, and the strict adherence to the High Table’s rules are all present, enriching the world without overshadowing Eve’s journey. Keanu Reeves also makes a welcome, albeit brief, cameo, effectively passing the torch while maintaining the narrative’s focus on Eve.
Where “Ballerina” truly shines is in its inventive action choreography. From flamethrower duels to ice-skate bayonets, the film consistently delivers fresh and dynamic fight sequences. There’s a particular standout moment where Eve navigates a nightclub, leaving a trail of destruction that forces the audience to “reverse engineer” the unseen carnage. This clever subversion of expectations, coupled with her resourceful use of everyday objects as lethal weapons, keeps the adrenaline flowing.
However, the film isn’t without its minor missteps. The plot, while offering some unexpected turns in its latter half, occasionally veers into the familiar “revenge story” tropes. Some supporting characters, particularly the main antagonist Gabriel Byrne’s Chancellor, feel somewhat underutilized given the talent involved. Despite these small criticisms, I’d recommend checking out “Ballerina” and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of FOUR stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Len Wiseman – Rating: 15A – Genre: Action/Thriller – Run Time: 2h 5m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.
The kids starting their summer holidays are celebrating….. while parents are wondering how they’re going to entertain them for 8 weeks!! So let us help you with some top tips for places to go!
Dublin city has lots to offer. National Concert Hall has great events & concerts. While The National Wax Museum has interactive exhibits the kids will love. Check Mams.ie for Wax Museum Competitions!
For family dining, Shake Dog Diner offers fantastic value for burgers, shakes, hotdogs etc. For delicious Mexican food, Acapulco on Georges St is excellent and very child friendly.
Bracken Court Hotel in Balbriggan has easy access to Dublin via regular trains and buses and they do packages that include Emerald Park, Flynn Park, Funtasia and other fun activities. Plus they’re right beside the beach.
Skypark in Carlingford is brilliant for all the family. I’ve zip lined there, much to my childrens amusement, its so fun! Go to Mams.ireland FB for our Skypark competition. The lovely Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford is nearby and ideal for making a staycation out of your trip!
For a memorable family break, Farnham Estate is wonderful. The spa, golf, indoor/outdoor pool are fabulous and the food is top notch! We love staycations there. The woodland walks are great for kids - look out for squirrels and lots of birds!
Malahide Castle and Gardens is beautiful for picnics and exploring the stunning grounds. They often host events too. And Avoca cafe is a perfect pitstop for yummy cakes & coffees!
Newbridge House & Farm is brilliant for kids who like animals and exploring. Watch out for the peacocks, their colourful feathers are spectacular.
We will have competitions running throughout the summer, for Flormar makeup, Artessa Coffee Beans, Arc Cinema tickets & lots more, so stay tuned to Mams.ireland on FB, Mams.ie on Insta and www.mams.ie
By Dave Kavanagh
When assisting clients plan their finances, a question I have to ask, is, how long (if at all) their employer will pay them if they are out of work long term due to illness or injury. In some cases, it is standard and can be something like 3 months at full pay, then 3 months at half pay and then a pensionable rate of pay. For many, they are not sure and when they look through their employment contract, it states “at employer’s discretion”. Many people realised how vulnerable they were when the pandemic arrived, dropping some incomes from €600, €800 or €1,000+ per week down to €350 of PUP. Many don’t give much consideration to how they would cope if they suffered a loss of income for an extended period because they think “it’ll never happen to me”. Sadly, many find out the hard way following an injury or illness that keeps them out of work for months or even years. This is where having Income Protection in place, can be the difference between maintaining a level of income that keeps your lifestyle virtually unchanged, or dropping to a level that could force you to use up any savings and also get into financial difficulty.
So how does it work? Depending on your circumstances, you choose an appropriate level of cover. This is based on not exceeding 75% of your salary, less any state income entitlement. You also choose a “deferred period” which refers to how long you are off work before payments commence. The premiums are based on factors like your age and occupation, as some occupations would leave you more at risk of not being able to work. There is also tax relief on premiums paid for income protection, which could mean up to 40% of your premium is refunded by way of adjusting your tax credits. If dropping from your current income to the current state benefit is something that would impact badly on you, perhaps it is time to consider.
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.
By Jack Shanley
After a string of increasingly convoluted cosmic sagas, ‘Thunderbolts’ offers a refreshing change of pace for the MCU. Director Jake Schreier smartly grounds this tale of reluctant anti-heroes in a gritty, espionage-tinged reality, delivering a film that’s as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed.
The narrative centres on a group assembled by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), a shadowy figure with her own agenda. Each character is a volatile mix of personalities and skill sets. They also carry their own baggage, making them far more complex and compelling than the average superhero.
The strength of Thunderbolts lies in its character work. Each member of this unlikely team is given ample screen time to develop, showcasing their individual traumas and reluctant camaraderie. The dynamic between Yelena and Bucky, in particular, crackles with a fascinating mix of suspicion and begrudging respect. Harbour’s Red Guardian steals several scenes with his boisterous charm and surprisingly poignant moments of vulnerability.
While the action sequences are well-choreographed and impactful, they serve the narrative rather than overshadowing it. The film wisely avoids large-scale CGI battles for a more intimate and grounded approach to conflict. The plot, while straightforward, keeps the audience engaged with unexpected twists and turns, exploring themes of redemption, trust, and the blurry lines between good and evil.
However, the film isn’t without its flaws. At times, the sheer number of characters can feel slightly overwhelming, and some subplots could have been explored in more depth. Nevertheless, Thunderbolts ultimately succeeds in delivering a compelling and surprisingly mature entry into the MCU. It proves that superhero stories don’t always need world-ending stakes to be engaging; sometimes, the most captivating battles are fought within. This is a welcome return to form and a promising direction for the future of the franchise.
I’d recommend checking out “Thunderbolts” and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of 3 and a ½ stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Jake Schreier – Rating: 12A – Genre: Action/Sci-fi – Run Time: 2h 6m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.