Meet your Wicklow celebrity – the 2025 Wicklow Nose of Tralee, Derek.
Name – Derek Wheatley
County – wicklow
Age – 18 months
Breed– wolfhound cross (with what?!)
Special Skill – Assistant heating technician
Favourite Food – At home lamb dog food. On week days in work jam sambo.
Favourite Toy – tennis ball
Favourite Place to Sleep – His safe space under the shelf in the kitchen/ his couch
Favourite Activity – Playing with his uncles Todd and Max
Favourite Place to go for a Walk/Hangout – loves hanging out in inspired cafe in wicklow town. Loves the forest and beach…. they offer the best sniffs!
Most mischievous thing you have ever done? ate a tub of derrygold from the counter when his parents were out to dinner.
How did you come into your owner’s life? As a rescue from dogs trust
What makes you the most pawtastic pet ever? His goofy personality radiates positivity and good vibes.
Why did you decide to enter the Nose of Tralee? We spread Dereks Joy!
How did you prepare for the contest and get votes? We made posters. We contacted local radio and news. We walked the length and breath of wicklow showing him off. Really good supportive family friends, cleints and community got behind him!
What did you enjoy most about the Nose of Tralee? For us, we got to meet some new people and new animals. But most importantly we got to show off our gorgeous boy to the whole of wicklow and ireland! It was really being involved. Something new and different.
What advice would you give to the next Nose of your County? Have fun with it! But don’t underestimate the power of networking for votes!
How are you handling your newfound fame? Derek loves the attention!! Newfound fame means new friends and lots of pats from adoring fans!
If you could be any superhero who would you be? Definitely Thor – he’s handsome and mighty!
Where can your fans follows you online? Derek prefers a quite life, no social media accounts…. yet!
Kate McQuillan is the co-founder of Pet Sitters Ireland, an award-winning pet sitting and dog walking company established in 2010 with her husband, Michael. Together, they support thousands of pet owners across Ireland with trusted, in-home pet care. With over 14 years of experience, Kate shares practical advice to help pet owners feel confident and prepared when it comes to their pet’s care.
