Murphy looking to be top dog at 'Nose of Tralee'

By Stuart Tynan

THE Rose of Tralee may have been postponed once again, but there is another competition that is - quite literally – getting tails wagging.

The Nose of Tralee, now in its eighth year, is organised by Petsitters Ireland and they invite owners from all over the country to put their pets front and centre to see them being named the best pet in Ireland.

Mayo's hopes are with Murphy, a five-year-old cockapoo - a mix of a cocker spaniel and a poodle - and his owner, Hannah Mulvihill, a native of Castlebar.

Murphy won the Mayo Nose of Tralee and is now in the running to win the national competition.

Hannah said: “He's awful friendly and he loves meeting new people around Mayo. It's lovely to represent Mayo and show how beautiful and dog-friendly our county is.”

Murphy has his own message for all his adoring supporters.

“I'm super honoured and hope that I can represent my county well at the finals. I think if I had my chance to show case my talents in the Dome in Kerry and got on stage with Dáithí Ó Sé that I'd be in a good chance of winning the 'Nose of Tralee'. We live in the most beautiful part of Ireland and my hooman makes sure that we visit all the local spots and support local!

“Not sure what that means but I get walks and treats so it suits me. I love nothing more than being on the beach, rolling in sand, chasing the birds and going wild in the wind when its stormy. I'm my hooman's best friend and have helped her get through some very lonely patches especially during the past year. Getting out and walking me everyday was her therapy especially with walks on Mayo's beautiful beaches.

“We would be delighted if we won but I would be especially happy with all the extra treats I think I deserve after all the photos with this silly sash on me!

“Thanks again for getting me this far and best of luck to the other furries in this competition.”

Murphy's adventures throughout Mayo and beyond can be seen on his Instagram page @murphy_the_irish_cockapoo.

Voting will be open until Tuesday, August 24, and the winner will be announced on the same day. You can vote for Murphy at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/PetSittersIreland/app/515720611858523?app_data=entry_id%3D196123316.