Jake’s a finalist in Nose of Tralee

HIlary with Jake who has been selected as County Antrim's finalist for the 2020 Pet Sitters of Ireland 'Nose of Tralee' Competition.

Jake, a Patterdale terrier, is owned by Hilary Rowell a nurse who works for the Northern HSC Trust at Antrim Area Hospital.

A native of Randalstown, Hilary, who lives in Kells, entered Jake for the annual competition in June “just as a bit of fun”.

She said: “Jake wandered shyly into my life 18 months ago as a scruffy looking rescue dog with terrible head and neck injuries. The vet aged him as being nine years old and his injuries were felt to most resemble the aftermath of a badger attack.”

After being treated by the vet and nursed lovingly back to health, Jake was taken to Mid Antrim Animal Sanctuary for adoption. Hilary said: “He’s afraid of absolutely nothing, he is brimming with confidence and 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.”

Thirty-two Noses - including Jake - have been selected to represent their county and a public vote will now decide between 26 dogs, five cats and a pig as to who will take the title of 2020 Nose of Tralee. The public vote is now open and the winner will be announced live on Facebook and Instagram on August 25. Votes can be registered at www.NoseOfTralee.com

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