Athboy dog Tara brings comfort to terminally ill children

A Bernese Mountain Dog from Athboy who had a difficult start to life is now bringing comfort to terminally ill children and has even qualified for Crufts.

Tara, owned by Athboy woman Alma McClorey, represented Meath at the Petmania Puppy of the Year 2026 Grand Final at the National Show Centre in Dublin on Saturday, 17th October.

But it is Tara’s journey from a fragile puppy needing round-the-clock care to a calm and gentle companion that makes her particularly special to her family.

When Tara’s mother became seriously ill after giving birth, the young puppy had to be hand-reared and bottle-fed every two hours during her first few weeks of life.

“We were absolutely exhausted, but it’s worth it now seeing how beautiful and calm she is,” Alma said.

Tara has since qualified for Crufts, one of the best-known events in the dog world, but Alma said one of the family’s greatest sources of pride has been Tara’s work with Oscar’s Kids charity.

Through her visits, Tara has brought comfort and joy to terminally ill children. Seeing how gentle she was with them helped the family appreciate the difference a dog can make to people going through difficult times.

“We are particularly proud of the wonderful work she has done with Oscar’s Kids charity,” Alma said.

“She has been bringing comfort and joy to terminally ill children. Seeing how calm, gentle and loving Tara was with them made us realise just how special she truly is and how much comfort and happiness a dog can bring.”

The family entered Tara in the annual Puppy of the Year competition to celebrate what makes her special. She was one of 26 county finalists selected from 1,414 entries nationwide.

Tara competed in the North Leinster and Ulster category, which was won by Summer, a Labradoodle–Bernese Mountain Dog cross from near Ballymahon, Co Longford. Ivy, a Dalmatian from Ballina, Co Mayo, was crowned the overall winner.

Alma also hopes Tara’s story will encourage prospective dog owners to research their chosen breed and breeder carefully.

“If you are thinking of welcoming a Bernese Mountain Dog into your family, my biggest advice would be to take your time and do your research,” she said.

“It’s so important to make sure both parents are fully health tested and that you choose a responsible, reputable breeder who genuinely cares about their puppies.”