XLVets Ireland are delighted to introduce Castlelands – Hourihane’s Veterinary Clinic as a new member into our network of independently owned veterinary practices. Based in Mardyke, Skibbereen, Castlelands – Hourihane’s Veterinary Clinic is a mixed practice comprising of 8 vets, 3 nurses, and 4 receptionist/accounts staff.
Practice principles Sean Hickey and Tom O’Callaghan both hailing from the Skibbereen area and graduating from UCD in the 90s, Sean and Tom have been joint partners of Castlelands – Hourihane’s Veterinary Clinic since 2018. The practice gained its name in 2008 when two vet clinics based in Skibbereen town were amalgamated. What started as a 4-vet practice has grown consistently since then into the thriving practice it is today.
“Last year as part of a plan for the next stage of the development of the business, we completed a comprehensive renovation of our entire building; from adding consultation rooms to upgrading our surgery and kennels to improving the premises energy efficiency.
While we have taken the business so far, we really don’t know where we are at relative to other practices of a similar size and where go we go from here. We recognize the value of XLVets and how benchmarking ourselves against similar practices will help us create a clearer path forward.
Joining XLVets will give us closer ties with other like-minded practices, this will allow us to see how they manage their businesses, in particular with drug purchases, stock control, staff training and recruitment.”
– Tom O’ Callaghan, Practice Principle, Castlelands – Hourihane’s Veterinary Clinic
XLVets Ireland welcomes Castlelands – Hourihane’s Veterinary Clinic into our network of independently owned veterinary practices. Led by practice principles Sean Hickey and Tom O’Callaghan, their recent comprehensive renovation reflects their forward-thinking approach to veterinary care. Castlelands – Hourihane’s Veterinary Clinic will be a valuable addition to the XLVets Ireland network and we look forward to supporting them in the development of their business.
XLVets Ireland is a collaborative network of 30 independent veterinary practices, 49 clinics, dedicated to advancing animal health across Ireland. Committed to excellence, XLVets member clinics share knowledge, resources, and best practices. Through this cooperative approach, XLVets enhances veterinary care, promotes innovation, and ensures the well-being of animals, fostering a healthier and thriving community.
