A big Congratulations to those who have made it through to the final 32 of the Nose of Tralee.
Listed below is a representative for each of the counties in Ireland – who will now go on to compete for the title of Nose of Tralee 2020.
What To Do If You Have Made The Final 32 Noses
- Email enquiries@petsittersireland.ie with your name, address and the name of your pet. Or fill out a contact form with the information.
- We will be posting out your finalists sash for your pet over the next few days and we will also be inviting you to join our Noses Facebook Group where you can meet all the previous years Noses.
- Once you receive the sash you need to take another photo and re enter your pet in the finals. We will provide the link via email to do this.
When Will The Winner Of the Nose Of Tralee 2020 Announced?
- Voting starts again on the 5th August.
- The winner will be announced on the 25th August after a public vote.
Pet Sitters Ireland Nose of Tralee 2020 (Finalists)
Antrim
Jake
I call him Andy Capp because he swaggers around like a wee hard man on his way to his long shift at the shipyard, wearing his donkey jacket & carrying his wee tin lunchbox under his arm.. In this photo I imagine him playing a saxophone in a smoky jazz club, with his cigar & glass of bourbon on the table beside him. He’s afraid of absolutely nothing, he is brimming with confidence & energy, greets every dog he meets like a long lost friend, and never misses an opportunity to have fun, even at the grand old age of 10. We should all try to be a bit more Jake.
Armagh
Freyja
Freyja is the Miss Congeniality of dogs. She has to meet everybody and give them a fair chance to admire her. If she likes the look of a person on a walk, she will not pass them by, even if it means throwing herself down at their feet in a full on tantrum against being pulled away by the lead. She will lie in a path in front of complete strangers demanding pets. Of course, lockdown has been particularly hard for her what with not being able to greet her public. Â Freyja might be a princess, but she also loves the outdoors, having summited almost every mountain in the Ring of Gullion and competing in Waggy Races and other canicross events. She currently venturing into the Mournes for her first camping trip. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, Freyja is also a formidable sock thief, having planted hundreds of socks in the back garden which continue to disappoint her by not growing into sock trees. Last year Freyja became an attentive mother to an orphaned black kitten. They pair are still inseperable – usually because one is holding part of the other in their mouth – and share everything – except socks. No one can touch Freyja’s socks. Freyja can be yours -or anyone’s – for the small price of a dried chicken foot, a spoonful of peanut butter or an ear scratch. She also answers to Thunderfloof, Fartyplume, Fang Slipper and Trash Panda.
Carlow
Smokey
Hi I’m Smokey and I would make a great nose of tralee because I’m the bestest boy, Mammy tells me all the time. I’m very unique I have the personality of a dog but I’m smarter! I do tricks and walk on my lead. I have an Instagram page because I’m so funny everybody loves my videos and thinks I’m very handsome which is very true. I’m a nebelung cat so I’m very rare, I’m such a character that everybody is always amazed by me. My favorite thing to do is to show off I love attention and am a real ladies man. I love treats so much that my mam has to lock the press door or I will open it and eat them all. My mam loves to sing to me and I meow at her she thinks I’m singing with her when really I’m telling her to shut up! I love to take my humans things and hide them in my bed and watch them look for them. Okay that’s enough from me I could stay here talking about myself all day but somebody has to run around the house and meow for no reason. Love Smokey from Co. Carlow
Cavan
Winston
Winston arrived to Ireland from Romania in Sept 2018. He needed major surgery on his legs which went wrong with an MRSA infection that took 15 months to fix. He is an inspiration to never give up. So happy, full of personality and never once stopped giving kisses throughout his journey
Clare
Kobe
Kobe was rescued from an abusive situation but he really rescued me, I have bi-polar disorder and Kobe has helped me through the darkest days, his need for a walk got me out of bed on days when all I wanted to do was curl up and die, he has laid his head on me when I’m low and comforted me when I’ve cried into his fur, he has saved me in so many ways and has made my life worth living. My mental health is so much better now and as we walk the beach each day I thank God hat he was brought into my life 8 years ago. My daughter has autism and although she has no interest in Kobe I see how he minds her and protects her when we are all out together, he will constantly stay by her side even when off lead and he tolerates her when she becomes volatile. He really is a very special boy and it doesn’t matter if he wins this or not because we know how amazing he is.
Cork
Robert Blackwell
Robert is one of the most brave, adaptable and empathetic dogs I have ever had the pleasure to meet, and it makes my heart glow to know he is my furever companion. A survivor of the Greyhound Racing and Coursing Industry, he came to me a shell of a dog, scared of his own reflection and so unsure of the world around him. He quickly learned however, that he was no longer a commodity, or a cheap bet, but a companion and beloved pet and once he realized he was safe, loved and respected, he blossomed into the amazing, social, confident dog he is today. He has an incredible ability to find the one person in the room who needs some canine company, and goes out of his way to make others smile. He is still learning how to navigate this strange world, a far cry from the cold concrete kennels he was raised in, but once he discovered the joys of the couch there was nothing that could stand in his way! I think Robert would make a GREYT Nose of Tralee as he is an ambassadog for his breed, one of the most systematically neglected breeds in Ireland. His natural smile and happy go lucky, laid back attitude have shown countless people just how fantastic greyhounds are as pets, and though he bears the scars of his past, he doesnt let them slow him down. To win the title of Nose of Tralee would be a win not just for Robert, but for Greyhounds as a whole, showing the country and the world their value as couch-loving, Pajama embracing , cuddlebugs, not the money making commodities they are treated as. Robert is a food-obsessed, duvet-hogging, toy-loving greyhound, thriving as an adored companion, but he could have ended up as another number on a spreadsheet, one of the 6000 healthy greyhounds routinely euthanized in Ireland every year for failing to make the cut. There is no difference between Robert and one of those 6000, only that he got lucky. In honour of those poor dogs that didnt make it, I enter one of the lucky survivors, my rescued greyhound Robert.
Derry
Jack
Our Jack is almost 13 years old & loving life. He enjoys his daily walks to the par. As he is now completely deaf, he relies on his nose to get about, he would make an ideal NOSE of Tralee . His sister dolly was the Derry nose two years ago & I guess jack wants to even things up
Donegal
Lord Luther
Luther is no stranger to grand titles as he is a Lord of Glencoe, owning his own little square foot of land! This accolade would allow Luther to have lucrative titles in both Scotland and Ireland! Luther is not Irish born but moved here almost 2 years ago with his mummy and he has since adopted it as his home! He loves going for walkies on his harness on Donegals beautiful beaches, and he loves exploring walking trails and parks. Luther is a very special boy and has become an emotional support companion to his mummy who has suffered a great deal of loss in the last 3 years, Luther is always there with a kiss and a nose rub. Luther is the best big brother to his fur siblings; Luna and Ludwig, he is the most gentle, patient boy in the world and we all love him to the moon and back. Luther would make a good nose of Tralee because he is elegant, poised, adventurous, loves a good hat and most importantly, has a big loving heart
Down
Molly
Not only is it cute and ripe for booping – it creates snores that sound like a tractor and makes more noise than a vaccum cleaner when shes on the hunt for treats.
Dublin
Oisin
Oisin is our special little dog. He is an 18-month-old tripod Miniature Schnauzer who is full of life. He is a rescue dog who lost his leg when only 3 months old due to puppy farm neglect. The amazing Miniature Schnauzer Rescue Ireland (MSRI) saved Oisin, nursed him back to health and entrusted him to us. Oisin has never let his disability slow him down in any way. He is full of energy, curiosity and pure divilment! He loves playing with our other dogs and can outrun and outjump them all, in spite of his 3 legs. He loves stealing shoes and socks and running away with them, so you will chase him. He’s a real cuddle bunny and loves sitting on your lap and having a belly rub. He enjoys his food and is always first in the queue at mealtimes. Carrots, banana and blueberries are his favourite treats. Oisin is a true inspiration. Although he had a terribly cruel start to his short life, he has never let it hold him back in way . He has such a sweet, kind and gentle nature. He captures the heart of everyone who meets him and we love him to bits
Fermanagh
Ruby
Ruby is a 11 month old rescue thats been with us for 4 months now. She was being dumped so we grabbed her and brought her home to her other rescue brothers and sisters. She has brought everyone to life here and she has her nose into everything and she is super cute too. Everyone that meets her loves her. She is a poser for sure, as soon as a camera is present she is there. She is a ray of sunshine. She has bought the oldies to life again and keeps them all on their toes( and us too) everyone needs a Ruby. She is a bundle of fun and mischief and a bossy little madam too. She has a home for life here with us now but her life could have been so much different. . She as her nose into everything learning about life and is a dutiful gitl letting us know if anyone is about that shouldnt be.
Galway
Dexter
Dexter is so happy in life and loves meeting new people especially other dogs and children. He makes everyone smile and brings joy to all. Hes my constant companion and very loyal. As Dexter is a Beagle his nose is hes stongest muscle, going one direction one minute and they taking you on a journey in a different direction within a second. So this competition is very apt for my Dexter, I should have called his nosey. When we on walks, its Dexter who wants to stop and look in over walls and gates for a nose and check out whats the other side. Makes anyone watching have a good laugh. Dexter has a spot on my window stil inside that over looks the main street of our home town. Most people passing see him and wave up to him. Its like he was made to be on a throne. He makes me laugh when Im sad and just knows how to cheet me. I think and believe Dexter is a champion already, just think the rest of the country needs to know too..
Kerry
Scamp
In September 2019, we decided it was time to add another member to our Family. We wanted our twins, Charlee-Ann and Aideen, to experience the joy of having their own puppy. Unfortunately we didn’t qualify for a rescue dog. The twincesses were crazy for Pugs so wee Scamp the pug came into our life’s. Our senior dog Lubo (who was half Pug /Min Pin) got a new lease of life with his new pal. Unfortunately their precious time together was short as Lubo passed in May. Lubo gave us over 15 years of joy and unconditional love. It’s true what they say, a dog is only part of our life but we are the dogs entire life. Scamp has a massive presence in our home. He brings our girls so much joy and happiness. We recently celebrated their 9th birthday and Scamps 1st. The girls were more excited about Scamps celebration than their own. He loves going on adventures with us. His favourite is trips to local dog shows and fund raising events (such as Santa Paws) for local dog rescue centres. He would love to represent the Kingdom of Kerry in The Nose Of Tralee. He’s a small dog with a huge personality and I’m sure everyone would love his fun loving antics as much as we do.
Kildare
Hudson
Hudson is a Rottweiler cross Bernese Mountain Dog who would make the perfect Nose of Tralee. He is about a year and a half old. He is very intelligent and can perform countless tricks. Some of our favourites include counting, closing the door and figure eight. He is even a bit of a Harry Potter fan. When I shout Avadakadavra (the killing curse) he plays dead. He can also hold things in his mouth on command, which makes for a cute photo. He works hard to practice and learn new tricks and has even made a name for himself on Tiktok, where we show these tricks. His skills and charm have earned him over 40K followers. His most popular video, which is a tribute to his brother who unfortunately passed away this year has over 5 million views. If you would like to see Hudsons tricks in action you can check us out at TikTok with the username rachels_rottie. Every day, Hudson defeats the stereotype that Rottweilers are untrustworthy dogs by being extra gentle with our little cousins and showing love to every new person, dog or any other animal he meets. He proves that in the right home any dog can be an amazing companion. He loves being around people and going on adventures. Whenever I leave the house he looks at me with his big sad eyes to guilt me into bringing him. His favourite places to visit are places where he can do lots of climbing. He is a very active pup that can explore for hours. Perhaps Hudson’s only flaw is that he doesn’t understand his size. He still thinks he is a lap dog who can sit on you in the evenings, however, his excellent cuddles are worth it. Hudson is a big softie who loves to play with his teddies and relax by the fire. He enjoys his belly scratches and playing with our cats tail. He is also extremely photogenic and manages to look beautiful in every photo. He is a pleasure to have in our home and he would be a great Nose of Tralee.
Kilkenny
Loki
Meet Loki , he is our baby and our best friend. He is the kindest , sweetest and most fun little boy. He loves to go on adventurous walks in the woods , he thinks he is Indiana Jones on his adventures.He likes to take lots of naps , he especially likes to nap in mammy and daddies bed ! Loki really enjoys family time and likes to cuddle up to mammy and daddy on the sofa when they are watching movies. We recently got married and during our photoshoot Loki was the star of the day ! We are so lucky to have our little boy in our lives , we think he would be a Pawfect Nose of Tralee
Laois
Mylo
Hi I’m Mylo, I’m almost 9 months old. I’m from Laois. I have loads of toys but ripping up toilet roll is my favourite hobby. I don’t normally dress up but as you can see I scrub up well and would make a great nose of Tralee 2020.
Leitrim
MC
Hi my name is Mc Faughnan and I would be honoured to accept the award of Nose of Tralee 2020. About time people noticed my true worth. In a wet and cold October in 2018 I was found as a tiny 7 week old on Tesco roundabout Carrick on Shannon, you see my father was a Tesco man and my mother she enjoyed meeting the other felines for a coffee at Esquires. One day, I went for a walk and got stuck on the roundabout, Thank God two young boys saved me and brought me to a safe place where Louise came and got me. Once my gorgeous face went up online everybody wanted me. So my home life is pretty simple, I act like I want something and I generally get it. Louise and Philip are pretty cool, Philip buys me special cans of sardines and tuna that’s my favourite. I like to sit on them so they know they’re my thrones afterall I am a princess. My favourite pastime is tree climbing and I love when they’ve just washed the floor and I can run around a slide everywhere so much fun. Sometimes when Philip and Louise go on holidays I get to go to Ballinamuck where my other servants quarters are, no holidays this year humans. Anyway that’s me, face that gets me noticed, whine that gets me anything. Thank you McFaughnan
Limerick
Alfie
My name is Alfie (or Alf, Alfonsis, Alferdo or Alfred when I’m being fancy). I am 7 years old and I have been living in my forever home in Limerick for almost 2 years now. I’m very excited to enter the nose of Tralee because I actually come from Tralee!! My pawrents adopted me from Kingdom cat and dog rescue at Petmania Manor West and I have been filling their house with dog hair since! I love walks, playing fetch, tug-o-war and chewing sticks, but my favourite is swimming. I absolutely love spending time at the beach and jumping around in the waves. Wether I’m walking along the beach or around the city I am always full of smiles. Unless there’s food, then Im all business. I pretty much follow my nose wherever I go, I guess thats the lab in me. Oh yeah I almost forgot, Im a pretty unique looking dog. Like my vet once said Who chopped you legs mate?. Were pretty sure Im a cross of a Labrador and a Corgi, meaning I have a big Lab body, but little corgi legs, and a fluffy corgi butt!! My mom always says Big dreams, Little legs So i guess thats me! If I win I plan to spend the prize money on milk, chicken and toast. Maybe I’ll wear one of my fancy bow ties!!! Lots of Love and rubs! – Alfie
Longford
Leroy
Aah where do I start about my boy Leroy!! Leroy is a 3yr old boxer who is full of devilment Let’s just say he keeps me on my toes! And keeps me smiling and laughing with his crazy antics ˜… His favourite pastime is sulking when he doesnt get his own way or when his mammy isnt paying him attention — Leroy is a clever boy more than what he lets on to be! He NOSE the sit,give the paw and lie down command. Leroy is very friendly& loves all dogs but sometimes he doesnt realise his size especially when it comes to our morning cuddles! Myself & Leroy love running together and sometimes participate in canicross events, we do great together until we get to a steep hill and I really have to encourage him to keep going˜… Leroy lives with his 5 siblings( 2 rescued greyhounds(Callie&Misty), 1 rescued boxer(Rosie), his brother Wilson & sister Bainne) they all get along so well. He is very accepting of other dogs coming in to our home when I am fostering rescued dogs, Leroy shows them how to be a dog again by playing, being affectionate towards them & also sharing his bed. He loves his lakeside walks and enjoys a swim during the summer months. Every dog is perfect in there owners eyes and to answer the question as to why Leroy should win is simple! Apart from the fact that I love him to bits & would be lost without him but There is not a day that goes by without Leroy making me either smile or laugh
Louth
Finn
Meet Finn, the Dundalk Dog Rescue labrador who joined St. Vincent’s Secondary School as a 4-month-old puppy last August. From the moment he arrived in the school, he stole the hearts of students and staff alike, and is now a very important part of the school community. Finn comes into school every day.He has his own outside area in the school where students regularly visit him throughout the day, and the clever pup now knows when the change of class is happening even before the bell rings! He also has an indoor office where he can chill out when tired. Finn spends his day visiting classrooms, going for walks and being pampered and petted by his fans. He has even become bilingual in a very short space of time, learning commands in English, Irish and French. (The treats may have helped.) He enjoys going to the park with different classes and has also begun work with the school’s guidance counsellor. Finn also plays a role in the wellbeing programme, where first year students study a module called “Caring for Animals,” learning about the importance of caring for a pet and aiming to help them to make an informed decision when considering pet ownership in the future. Finn would make a great ‘Nose of Tralee’ winner. He is a clever and affectionate dog but still has plenty of puppy madness!!
Mayo
Sasha
Sashas my name, Im from Ardnaree, Id like to become the Nose of Tralee. You may very well ask, If Im up to this task? Common Scents you see, for a sniffer like me. Ive been blessed with gifts and talents galore, Modesty prevents me from saying any more. I dont like the Catwalk, Id much prefer a Dogwalk, Where my nose and I the world can explore. The sun will be declining beneath the blue sea, When they announce the winner of the Nose of Tralee. Good luck to the Noses, Were as good as the Roses. This year I hope the crown will fit me.
Meath
Tom Jones
Tom Jones our cuddly pet , The best cat you’d ever get. He strayed in – amidst recession , And saved us all from depression. His cutest nose is made to be kissed , Tom Jones is our Family Therapist !
Monaghan
Bobby
BOBBY is 13 years old, and was recently diagnosed with stage 2 kidney failure,, he was recently in the vets very unwell,, Bobby is one of the most loyal, gentle, and lovable dog, that any one could wish for,, He may not have many years left to live, so I would love if Bobby could be Monaghans nose,,, this would be a great achievement in his old age..
Offaly
Teddy
Teddy is very energetic and entertaining. Shes 2 years of age and is and always be the baby in my house. She treated more like a human and live the attention of other people. Shes very friendly and knows how to cheer you up when your w bit down. Teddy would be spoilt so all my family says but u wouldnt have it any other way.
Roscommon
Meeko Cox
Even though I am Meekos appointed spokesperson, best friend and mum, my opinion is totally and completely unbiased and should definitely be taken as the complete truth. Meeko is the best dog to ever exist, ever. She didnt tell me to say that, I promise. One look at Meeko and your heart will do that warm, fluffy ohmygoodness I love you thing and no one would ever blame you. Shes so cute. But its meekos personality that makes her the best dog in the world. She is caring, kind, thoughtful, funny, excitable, loyal and so clever. Meeko loves snuggles and nose boops with everyone. Among Meekos many talents, is her avid love for the environment. As an environmental activist she ensures all plants are adequately sniffed (for any problems of course) and watered. She even goes so far as to remind me to pick up her poop but staring at me excitedly until Ive completed the task. Meekos philanthropic nature extends to her care for the less fortunate and she will always bring me one of her treasured biscuits (which she usually keeps well hidden) if Im feeling down. Meekos favourite trick is spin and she truly believes there is nothing in the world that cant be fixed without an enthusiastic spin, especially the treat dispenser (this is her little nickname for me). In all honesty Meeko has changed my life, she is the sweetest and funniest dog youll ever meet and although there are hundreds of thousands of incredible dogs out there who are so deserving of the title Meeko would love the opportunity to represent them all as The Nose of Tralee. Meeko sends nose boops and wants to remind you she is an 11/10 good girl.
Sligo
George
The names Kune (pronounced Cooney), George Cooney. One of the coolest pigs in Sligo, if not Ireland. Also, with such a beautiful snout, how could he not be deemed the perfect “Nose of Tralee”?
Tipperary
Teddy
As you can already see he loves to pose for the camera! Teddy actually acts as a therapy dog for me and I dont know what I would do without him. I have a medical condition, he can tell when Im not feeling the best and gives me all the cuddles and kisses. On my good days he runs around the house constantly playing games and on my bad days he lies down with me to watch Netflix! He definitely deserves to be crowned the Nose of Tralee as he always brings a smile to my face. He gives high fives and trys to play football daily! He is definitely a pampered pooch. Hes not camera shy and loves a photo shoot. Teddy gets everyones attention and always smiles to show his lovely teeth! As soon as I put runners on he sits patiently at the door begging to go for a walk. He loves people watching and we sit at the window to watch the day go by. Life wouldnt be the same without Teddy and I think the Nose of Tralee sash would look perfect on him!
Tyrone
Sparkles
Sparkles is very sweet natured, very clever adapts to people, from elderly to children. Its as if she just naturally smart. Cute
Waterford
Seamie
Seamie is little Mr Sensitive ,he adores people and hugging is his favorite hobby ,he gets loves to play ball with his 4 other siblings on the beach
Westmeath
Olivia
Olivia deserves to win The Nose of Tralee 2020 because shes a BFG (big friendly dog) and we think she should be judged not by the colour of her skin but by the content of her character. She is loving, loyal and resilient after all of the trauma in her life. After having 10 puppies and spending in the shelter she appreciates every day she has. Olivia also has the best nose going and will find chicken within 2 mile radius.
Wexford
Rocco
Rocco has just turned one in May. He is a rescue pup and is the most lovable happy boy who is very protective over my kids and myself. He loves to bring me in the clothes off the line. He is the best sandwich robber in the house, but always there to give you cuddles. Mischievous but adorable.
Wicklow
Butternut
Shes a flirty fun kitten, with a very sweet personality. Of course she has her wild five at 8pm like most cats but she has been the puuurrrfect addition to our family. Her favorite toy is tinsel. She plays hide and seek with her dad by chasing the tinsel around the house until it goes under the sofa or behind the kitchen cupboard. She will meow where she lost it to let her dad know that he needs to find it. She is definitely the other woman in the relationship, so much so that she has now become custom to sleeping on my pillow during the night. Of course I dont move her because she looks so cute and angelic so submiss to sleeping without a pillow. Shes certainly made her place in this family hehe. Her nicknames are mitten˜squish floofer and most recently chunkasaurus but lets face it weve all put a few covid pounds on, she can just hide hers well under all that fluff!! If you would like to more photos she has her very own insta page @lady_butternut. Thanks, her very proud human mother Lucy
