New veterinary surgeon Marykate Fullerton joins the growing team at Carn Vets

Carn Vets, part of the Inishowen Co-Op group, has officially welcomed a new veterinary surgeon to its expanding team, marking another step forward in the clinic’s commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care for animals across Inishowen.

Born and raised in Buncrana, Marykate Fullerton may call herself a ‘townie’, but her lifelong love of animals set her firmly on the veterinary path.

From an early age, she was immersed in the world of horses and small animals, and the time she spent stabling horses on farms around Derry deepened her interest in large animal care.

After completing a BSc in Animal Science at UCD, with farm experience in Ireland, Germany, and Idaho, she pursued veterinary studies in Budapest, graduating in February 2024.

She credits Anne Scott at Carn with nurturing her skills in small animal surgery and equine medicine.

Marykate began her career in a busy mixed practice serving both sides of the border, gaining experience across small, large, and equine care.

She developed particular passions for dentistry, wound care, and soft tissue surgery, and thrives during calving and lambing season, especially tricky cases without surgery.

Her philosophy is simple: veterinary medicine is as much about people as it is about animals – built on compassion, communication, and continuous learning.

Outside her broad skills, Marykate has a special love for cats and horses and hopes to pursue further studies in small animal and equine dentistry, while bringing a calm, positive presence to the clinic.

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Carn Vets’ integration into Inishowen Co-op last year ensures secure, independent veterinary services for farmers, pet owners, and equine clients in a modern, well-equipped facility.

Sean Faulkner, Chairman of Inishowen Co-op, said: “For over six decades, Inishowen Co-Op has supported the farming community. Our values remain rooted in trust, mutual support, and strength in working together.”

With Marykate’s arrival, Carn Vets continues its mission to combine local knowledge, international training, and cooperative values to support the health and wellbeing of animals across Inishowen.