By Julie McLaughlin
A MUCH-LOVED pet who enjoys travelling and sport is currently representing County Down in the 2026 Nose of Tralee competition.
Ira, a 5-year-old Cavachon, has been selected by a panel of judges as the finalist for the county. Ira, who is owned by Newry resident Inís Nic Giolla Phádraig, is competing against the other 31 county finalists in the All-Ireland final.
“I’m absolutely delighted that Ira is a finalist, although I always knew she would do well because she really is such an amazing little dog. She has a very special personality and seems to make an impression wherever she goes,” Inís said, adding, “This is Ira’s first competition, so we’re super excited.”
This year is the 13th annual PetSitters Ireland Nose of Tralee competition to find a dog to represent Ireland. The winners can win prizes including cash, hotel stays, photo shoots, dog treats and pet accessories.
The winner will be determined by three things: a public vote (33 percent), a written entry about the dog (33 percent) and the quality, cuteness and uniqueness of the dog’s photo (33 percent).
Inís is hoping that people will vote online to support Ira in this endeavour.
“I’m very pleased that Ira is representing the county in this year’s Nose of Tralee competition,” she said. “Ira is a really friendly, affectionate dog and loves being around people.”
“It’s been such a fun and positive competition celebrating pets from across Ireland, and it would be amazing to see County Down get behind one of its own!” Inís said.
Voting for the Nose of Tralee is open until 17 August and can be done online daily at www.petsittersireland.com/nose-2026/. The winner will be announced on 18 August.
Ira has her own Instagram page (@irathecavachon) so people can follow her adventures, which have included travels to Vancouver, Canada.
“I originally started Ira’s Instagram page just as a fun way of sharing photos and keeping everyone she meets updated on her adventures,” Inís said.
“She has such a funny personality and is very photogenic, so I always seemed to have plenty of pictures of her. It’s grown from there, and the Nose of Tralee competition has given us another reason to share what she gets up to and hopefully encourage people across County Down to get behind her.”
Inís said that Ira charms everyone she meets.
“She loves learning tricks, meeting new people and spreading happiness wherever she goes,” she said.
Not just a pretty face, Ira also helps in the community.
“Ira volunteers as a pet therapy dog with the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, visiting children’s hospital wards, rehabilitation homes for older adults and supported living services for teenagers with disabilities,” Inís said.
“During one visit, a young boy, who would not usually engage positively, reacted to Ira by reaching out to pet her. The support workers were amazed and delighted by his response, showing just how powerful the bond between people and animals can be.”
Ira is also a sport fan and can often be seen supporting the county team by wearing Down football tops and bandanas.
“Ira is a huge Down GAA fan and watches their matches on the TV when she can,” Inís said.
Ira’s favourite local place to take walks is in Rostrevor.
“Ira loves going for a walk in Kilbroney Forest Park in Rostrevor. She loves running in the fields and taking a quick dip in the river,” Inís said.
Ira’s owner is proud of her pet and is glad that people are getting to know her through this competition.
“Wherever Ira goes, she leaves behind wagging tails, smiling faces, and new friends. She isn’t just a beautiful dog with a charming face, she is a gentle, caring companion, who brings comfort and happiness to everyone she meets,” Inís said.
“For her caring nature, community work, adventurous spirit, and wonderful temperament, Ira would be a worthy Nose of Tralee.”
