Why We’re Running for Ireland’s Most Vulnerable Pets

Meet the women taking on the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon to help sick and injured animals

Jess: “When I was a student, I used to be a volunteer on the mobile clinics for years, I then went on to study veterinary medicine where I carried out some of my placement in the Inchicore clinic. I am a vet myself for 6 years now. I think the The Irish Blue Cross and all the work they do, is absolutely amazing. I loved my time there with the incredible team. I have already convinced two of the vet nurses I work with to sign up and fund raise as well! We’re starting a little running club!”

You can support Jess via: https://www.idonate.ie/donate/fundraiser/jessnchionnaith  

Sophie: “I chose The Irish Blue Cross as I’m currently locuming there, (I’m new) but I think it’s absolutely fantastic that there’s a place and mobile clinics for people to access who are on a low income. This means that their pets can get great care even when things are tough financially. The mobile clinics are also great, as animals can get check-ups and vaccines in their community! I think it’s so important that all animals get the care that they need!”

You can support Sophie via: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/sophiemchale

Zoë: “This is my first time running the mini marathon and I am doing it with my friend. I chose this charity as I have a big passion for helping animals in need and I have two pets. I have rescued small animals and recently adopted a cat. I’ve always had a love for animals, and I want to represent what The Irish Blue Cross does for animals in need during the race!”

You can support Zoe via: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/zoosborne49111

Carmel: “The charity helped me and my family a lot when Lily’s twin brother Ted was sick back in 2015. Sadly, he was put to sleep on 7^th July 2015, he was only 18 months young. Then there’s Lily, who turned 12 years young on 11^th January 2026. She is a patient of The Irish Blue Cross, who treat her very well when needed. On behalf of myself and Lily, roll on Sunday 31^st May 2026.”

Hayley: “Taking part in the Mini Marathon is also a very personal achievement for me. I’ve gone from being extremely overweight, unhealthy, and having little to no interest in exercise, to now training consistently — working out in the gym five days a week and running regularly. So far, this journey has resulted in me losing three stone, and the Mini Marathon feels like a meaningful milestone in celebrating how far I’ve come, both physically and mentally.

You can support Hayley here: Support VHI Mini Marathon For The Irish Blue on iDonate.ie

Your commitment to protecting animal welfare, providing vital veterinary care to sick, injured and vulnerable animals, and promoting responsible pet ownership really resonates with me. I have my own Labrador, Poppy, and I’m incredibly fortunate to be able to provide her with everything she needs and give her a safe, happy and healthy life. Knowing that The Irish Blue Cross helps animals who aren’t as lucky access the care and compassion they deserve is something I truly admire, and it means a lot to be able to support that work through my fundraising.”

Nicola: “The Irish Blue Cross wasn’t a charity that was hard to pick [for the Mini Marathon], my own Dog Bonnie, was a client for around 13 to 14 years. Then at the Christmas time 2021, two days before Christmas she got her surgery. The team there at The Irish Blue Cross are amazing, two days before Christmas they were there to help, nothing stopped them, they sent me texts and rang me asking how she was. I was on my own (normally I would have someone with me), when it came to the last visit, I didn’t know that it would be her last, a staff member was there with me, and I can’t thank them enough. She fell asleep with the best help beside her and of course I was too. I now have a new member that is a client his name is Bruno. Just like Bonnie, a jack Russell but Brown.”

Michelle: “The reason I’m choosing The Irish Blue Cross is that the staff in Inchicore have looked after my girls since they were puppies. Last year, unfortunately, I lost my baby girl Misty who was over 17 years. Ciara (vet) looked after Misty and when it was time for her to go the compassion and empathy she showed me and my family was amazing x. To all the staff at The Irish Blue Cross, they are all fantastic and generous with their kindness.”