Where expertise meets compassionate care
About The Canine Clinic
Meet the Team
Claire O’Donnell is the founder and clinical director of The Canine Clinic, bringing over 20 years of experience in canine physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and rehabilitation. A qualified physiotherapist and hydrotherapist, she is known for her gentle, therapeutic handling and evidence-based approach to improving dogs’ mobility, comfort, and quality of life.
Claire is a registered member of IRVAP, ensuring the highest standards of professional practice and ongoing clinical development. She collaborates closely with vets and specialists across Ireland and has proudly hosted the respected K9HS hydrotherapy training courses at her clinic for several years.
Claire’s vision for The Canine Clinic is simple: a calm, purpose-built space where every dog receives individualised, compassionate, and exceptional care. She believes dogs deserve better!
Leonie Barry is a registered veterinary nurse, surgery nurse, and qualified veterinary physiotherapist with specialist training in canine rehabilitation and hydrotherapy. Alongside her role at The Canine Clinic, she also works in a busy veterinary hospital, giving her extensive hands-on experience with surgical and orthopaedic patients.
A dedicated member of the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT), Leonie upholds the highest clinical and professional standards and regularly completes ongoing CPD. Her calm, gentle handling and patient-led approach help every dog feel safe, supported, and cared for throughout their recovery.
Amy Lucey qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in 2019 and has worked in clinical practice ever since. In 2023, she furthered her expertise by qualifying as a Canine Hydrotherapist, completing her practical training at The Canine Clinic.
Amy is passionate about supporting dogs through recovery from injury, surgery, and mobility challenges using calm, tailored hydrotherapy. Alongside her ongoing veterinary nursing role, her combined clinical knowledge and compassionate approach ensure every dog receives the highest standard of care.
Sarah Cowhig is a qualified Veterinary Nurse (2015) and certified Canine Hydrotherapist (2024), with a strong interest in rehabilitation and a holistic approach to managing mobility issues. Alongside her role at The Canine Clinic, she also works at Abbeyville Veterinary Hospital, giving her valuable experience with surgical, orthopaedic, and post-operative patients.
Sarah is passionate about educating owners and involving them in their dog’s treatment, believing the best results come from working together proactively. She continues to complete regular CPD to ensure her knowledge and skills remain up to date and aligned with the highest standards of canine care.
Emer O’Callaghan is a highly experienced professional dog groomer with almost 14 years’ experience across a wide range of breeds and coat types. She holds QQI Level 5 and Level 6 qualifications in Animal Husbandry and Dog Grooming from St. John’s Central College, Cork.
Emer is known for her calm, gentle, and therapeutic handling style, closely aligned with The Canine Clinic’s ethos of low-stress, patient-led grooming. Her expertise in skin and coat care, combined with her kind and reassuring presence, ensures every dog’s comfort and wellbeing throughout their spa experience.