Cassie bids for Nose of Tralee glory

After receiving a record-breaking 1,805 entries and more than 68,000 public votes, the 2026 Nose of Tralee has officially announced its Final 32 – one pet from each county who will now compete for the coveted title of 2026 Nose of Tralee.

See details at: www.petsittersireland.com/final-nose-2026/

Organised by Pet Sitters Ireland, the annual competition celebrates the personalities, stories and special bond between pets and their owners. This year's competition once again captured the hearts of pet lovers across Ireland, with thousands of people voting to help their favourite pets progress to the next stage.

Following the public vote, the top three pets from each county were reviewed by an independent judging panel, who selected one finalist to represent each county based on their photo and written entry.

The 32 finalists include an incredible mix of dogs, cats and other much-loved pets, each with their own unique story and personality.

Representing Tipperary is Cassie. Her owner writes: "She is the most adorable sock thief – she has had to have her stomach pumped twice for swallowing socks whole! She has a sweet loving nature and loves nothing more than cuddles and walks! Dont let her cuteness fool you she hates the word No and will be very vocal about letting you know she doesnt like it! She is very social and loves to say hello to everyone!"

Kate McQuillan, founder of Pet Sitters Ireland and organiser of the Nose of Tralee, said: "Every year we're amazed by the love people have for their pets, but this year's competition has been our biggest yet. Receiving 1,805 entries and seeing so many people get behind their county favourites has been incredible.

"Our judges had a very difficult job choosing just one finalist from each county. The standard was exceptionally high and every finalist has a wonderful story to tell. We're now looking forward to introducing the Final 32 and seeing Ireland get behind them in the final public vote."

The Final 32 will now go head-to-head in one last public vote to decide who will be crowned the 2026 Nose of Tralee.

Final voting opens on July 24 and runs until August 17, with the overall winner announced on August 18