About Us
Our Vision, Mission & Values
Caring for Animals Since 1945
The Irish Blue Cross began with a simple but powerful mission: to protect vulnerable animals. Founded in 1945 by a group determined to stop the live export of Irish horses for slaughter, it quickly became clear that help was urgently needed much closer to home.
Dublin’s sick and injured pets were suffering, and families often had nowhere to turn.
In 1953, we brought the solution directly to the streets. Our first mobile veterinary clinic began treating animals where help was needed most, delivering vital care to communities that needed it urgently.
A Lifeline for Pets and Their Families
Today, that mission is stronger than ever.
Our state-of-the-art small animal clinic in Inchicore, opened in 2009, works together with our mobile clinics to provide essential veterinary care across Dublin. Every weekday evening, our clinics serve communities including Cabra, Tallaght, Blanchardstown, Crumlin, Ballyfermot, Ballybrack, Smithfield, Walkinstown, Finglas and Whitehall.
For pets needing more comprehensive care, our Inchicore clinic offers pragmatic veterinary care and modern facilities.
Without these services, many families would struggle to provide even basic veterinary care for their beloved pets.
More Than Treatment—Support, Education, Compassion
At the heart of everything we do is a practical, compassionate approach.
Our veterinary team doesn’t just treat animals; they support pet owners too. By sharing knowledge and guidance, we help families give their pets the healthy, happy lives they deserve.
Since 1945, we’ve cared for over half a million pets and every year, the need continues to grow. From routine health checks to x-rays, blood tests, microchipping, neutering and surgery, our team provides thousands of treatments annually.
Helping Horses Too
Our work doesn’t stop with small animals.
We also operate a dedicated horse ambulance service, attending racecourses and events across Ireland. Working alongside veterinary surgeons, we provide urgent care and transport for injured horses when every second matters.
Powered by People Like You
None of this would be possible without the generosity of our supporters.
We rely on donations, volunteers, and community fundraising to continue our work – every contribution helps us reach more animals in need.
Our Vision
The vision of The Irish Blue Cross is that care is provided for every animal and all pets should enjoy a healthy life despite the financial circumstances of their owners.
Our Mission
The mission of The Irish Blue Cross is to offer affordable veterinary care to eligible owners; promote welfare and responsible pet ownership; and alleviate the suffering of animals through veterinary clinics and equine ambulances.
Our Core Values and What They Mean
The core values of The Irish Blue Cross are:
Integrity. We act in an ethical, transparent, and honourable way.
Dynamic. We are ambitious and optimistic, striving for success.
Responsible. We are proud of our professionalism and hold ourselves accountable for the work we do.
Fair and Reasonable. We aim to be consistent and treat everyone equally.
Compassionate. We believe in showing respect and kindness and we aim to be supportive and caring in all that we do.