One of the hardest decisions we face as pet parents is knowing when it’s time to let them go. As a veterinary professional who has also gone through this personally, I can tell you: there is no universal answer. Every case, every family, and every pet is different. What matters is that the decision is made in the best interest of the animal.
We’re here to guide you through that moment, to help you make the most compassionate and informed choice. So don’t hesitate to reach out once, twice, or 300 times if you need to. We understand how difficult it is, and we are here to help.
Watching our pets grow old is a privilege. And having the power to decide when it’s time to say goodbye is a final act of love.
When we make that decision, it’s for them, but also for us. To be at peace with ourselves, knowing we did everything possible to make their time with us joyful.
We often ask the same questions, but the answers are unique to every animal:
Do they still enjoy walks?
If your dog never really liked walks and preferred the sofa, that’s not a good measure. But if they used to run happily through the park and now refuse to go out, that’s a sign something’s wrong.
Do they still seek affection and company?
Wanting cuddles is a sign of well-being. A cat who hides and wants to be alone may be telling us that something has changed.
Do they still have an appetite?
Food is often a great indicator. At a certain age, and if their health allows, we can bend the rules a bit. If your dog wants fries from McDonald’s and it makes them happy, that’s okay. But if they’re no longer even smelling their food, maybe their body is telling us it’s time.
It’s not just about age or a diagnosis, it’s about their quality of life.
Veterinarians, nurses, and every member of the clinic team are both professionally and personally prepared to support you through this. Please, don’t hesitate to reach out as many times as it takes. We’re here to help you make the most compassionate decision possible.
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!
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
