Name: Waffle
County: Cavan
Age: 8 months
Breed: Maltipoo
Special Skill: Hiding socks
Favourite food: Sausages or pup cups
Favourite Toy: Si, her first teddy she got when we collected her
Favourite Place to Sleep: Back seat of the car
Favourite Activity: playing fetch
Favourite Place to go for a Walk/Hangout: Killykeen Forest Park
Most mischievous thing you have ever done: Chewed Mamas laptop cable and she couldn’t work from home
How did you come into your owner’s life? My Mamas friends doggie was having puppies and when my Mama seen me she had to bring me home
What makes you the most pawtastic pet ever? I’m fun, energetic and love meeting people. I give people kisses and make everyone smile when they meet me.
Why did you decide to enter the Nose of Tralee? I seen the post on my socials and just knew I wanted Waffle to be a part of it. We only have her 6 months but the love we have for her has totally taken us by surprise. She has made our house a home and us, a family. I wanted others to see what an amazing puppy she is and encourage others to think about getting a pet.
How did you prepare for the contest and get votes? We didn’t know how to go about preparing but decided to get flyers and posters printed. I looked at events coming us especially dog shows where I could look for votes. I utilised my social media, posting on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. I emailed work colleagues and contacted local radio and newspapers. It was full on, out spreading the word when we had free time. We never missed an opportunity.
What did you enjoy most about the Nose of Tralee? I enjoyed getting to meet people and seeing Waffle interact with people and other dogs. She is only 8 months old so it was lovely to see her socialise. I actually enjoyed being on the radio as well, getting to tell everyone about Waffle and the competition. It was fun chatting with the other contestants and seeing all the great work they were doing for their pets.
What advice would you give to the next Nose of your County? Enjoy the process. Remember you are showcasing your pet and what they mean to you. Don’t get lost in keeping up with others. Social media and online promotion is the way to go. Try and get out to meet people but it’s quicker to get a vote online. Set up a social media account for your pet and get followers, that’s where the votes are.
How are you handling your newfound fame? We love it. It’s funny when people come up and say “is this Waffle, the Cavan Nose She has no clue but loves the attention and people really do love her when they meet her.
If you could be any superhero who would you be? For me, Spider-Man so I can use my spidey sense to find my missing socks thanks to Waffle. For Waffle, Wonder Wag, her tail never stops wagging when she meets people making them smile. There is magic in that tail.
Where can your fans follows you online? waffle_themaltipooxx on insta and waffle_theirishmaltipoo on TikTok
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.
