25.
Lola - Sligo Nose At the grand age of 23, Lola has life all figured out. She was adopted after almost two years in a foster home, at the age of 20 1/2, all so she could accompany her (former) foster humans when they emigrated to Ireland back in 2020. Her favourite hobbies are napping, birdwatching, and pushing much younger cats off the furniture in an attempt to recreate the scene from the lion king. Lola would make a great Nose of Tralee because older cats are so often overlooked for adoption, but have so much life, love and (in Lola's case) mischief left in them.
26.
Podge - Tipperary Nose Podge is a gorgeous fawn-coloured Pugalier (mix between a Pug and a Cavalier King Charles) and is nearly 3 years old. He is the baby of the house and is adored by everyone. His favourite thing to do is snuggle up and he loves a good belly rub, he’ll happily roll over onto his back to get some extra love and attention. Podge is such a funny, unique dog and his special talent is his ‘head tilt’. When you mention his favourite words or other dog's names, sing a song to him or sometimes just talk to him in general, he tilts his head from side to side in the most adorable way. Despite his rough start in life, Podge is the happiest dog you'll ever meet! At just 6 months old, he suffered blood poisoning and underwent two blood transfusions to save his life. During this time, he developed clots to both his ears and his tail. He experienced neurological issues and balance problems. He is a true fighter, two and a half years later and he is doing great! He still makes regular visits to the vets to check his bloods and he is still on medication, but he is stronger than ever. Podge’s infectious personality would brighten up anyone’s day. No matter what time it is, morning, noon, or night, he is always eager to greet people with a wagging tail and a big lick on the face. He is the best licker, he loves licking people’s legs, particularly any cuts they may have. Podge is a very lively, energetic dog who loves playing and enjoys long walks, especially exploring different locations in Tipperary. He loves to bark at other dogs to communicate with them and show them whose boss, but really, he’s afraid of his life, but likes to make them think that he’s not. Podge is a one-of-a-kind dog! He is a pure rouge, with a heart of gold. His fighting spirit, never give up attitude, and lovable personality would make him a deserving winner of the Nose of the Tralee 2023.
27.
Johnny - Dublin Nose Clumsy but cute, Johnny (full name: Lord John William Grey) was born in Argentina before crossing the Atlantic to make a new home in Ireland. Since arriving, Johnny has become the nosiest boy in Harold’s Cross, winning the heart of every neighbour and passerby who spots the little ginger cat in the window. He has even adopted an Irish dad who he loves to play football with (being Argentinian, Johnny has a better first touch than his father). He’s a real attention-seeker as well—not best pleased when Mum and Dad are working instead of paying attention to Johnny. More than just a pretty face, Johnny has got an impressive CV to match his looks. He speaks three languages (Spanish, English, Turkish) and even participated in a pet-training seminar, teaching the other cats and dogs how to give the best high five. When he’s not busy greeting the neighbours or playing fetch with his parents, you’ll find Johnny falling asleep in Mum’s arms with his tongue sticking out. P.S. Johnny here, I’m so excited about being a finalist that I keep waking up Mummy and Daddy in the middle of the night to remind them. If you vote for me, I vow to never scratch the furniture and never fight with the plants ever again (unless I feel like it). Whatever happens, it’s an honour to be your Dublin Nose - go raibh maith agat, gracias, teşekkürler, thank you!
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Lexi - Tyrone Nose Lexi is absolutely delighted to be representing Tyrone in the Nose of Tralee 2023. Lexi is a cross between a golden cocker spaniel and a beagle. Just the perfect mix of the two breeds. As we said in our original entry she is a great companion to our family and all our elderly neighbours.