PawDeal

Hello fellow dog lovers! For those new to the blog, I’m the (slightly obsessed) owner of a fabulous five-year-old Hungarian Vizsla. If you know the breed, you know they’re not just dogs; they’re shadows, they’re athletes, they’re cuddle monsters – they’re ‘Velcro Vizslas’! And living in Ireland, especially around the vibrant Cork area, has been an absolute dream for adventuring with our ginger girl.

One of our absolute favourite haunts, and a place I simply have to write about, is Ballincollig Regional Park. This place is a haven for dog owners. Miles of pathways, a fantastic river (perfect for a splash!), and wide-open spaces mean my girl can really stretch her legs. The park operates a ‘dogs on lead’ policy for the main pathways, which is great for ensuring everyone feels comfortable, but there are also designated off-leash areas where well-behaved pups can enjoy a good run and socialise. The Gunpowder Trails within the park offer varied walks, meaning we never get bored. Honestly, seeing Phoebe bound through the meadows there, ears flapping, is pure joy.

And it’s not just the physical space; there’s a real community spirit amongst dog owners here. You’ll always meet friendly faces (both human and canine!) on your walks. There’s an unspoken camaraderie, a shared understanding of the joy (and occasional chaos!) that comes with dog ownership. We’ve made so many furry friends and met their lovely humans, exchanging tips, sharing stories, and arranging playdates. There are often local dog groups organising walks and events too, which is a fantastic way to get involved. We have met many vizsla owners and joined local group here. Feel free to reach out, we meet on konthly basis in various locations: link here.

Beyond Ballincollig, Cork is generally a wonderfully dog-friendly county. We’ve explored the rugged coastline and found some truly spectacular dog-welcoming beaches. Inchydoney Beach, while having some summer restrictions, is fantastic for a blustery off-season run. Further afield, places like Garrettstown and Myrtleville are also popular spots where dogs can often enjoy the sand and surf. We also recommend Bá Fhíonáin /St. Finian’s Bay where we went camping the other weekend with Phoebe. Most Magnificat, great waves for surf, very nice restaurant Driftwood Surf Cafe nearby with most helpful service and beautiful outdoor space overlooking the bay, cliffs and mountain coming out of the sea.

Always remember to check local signage for any specific rules, especially during peak season, and of course, always clean up after your pooch! The freedom of watching my Vizsla chase the waves is something truly special – a tired Vizsla is a happy Vizsla, after all!

Living with a high-energy breed like a Vizsla means having good support systems in place is crucial. Thankfully, the Cork area is well-serviced with excellent local vets. We’ve had fantastic experiences with compassionate and knowledgeable professionals who truly understand the needs of active dogs. A quick search will reveal numerous clinics, so you’re never far from expert care.

And for those pampering needs (because even adventurous Vizslas need a bit of TLC!), there are plenty of grooming services around. Whether it’s a nail trim after too much enthusiastic digging or a full bath after a muddy park adventure, you’ll find skilled groomers ready to make your furry friend look and feel their best.

No doggy paradise is complete without great pet shops, and Cork doesn’t disappoint. From larger chains like Maxi Zoo to smaller independent stores, you can find everything you need – high-quality food to fuel those adventures, durable toys to withstand a Vizsla’s playful antics, and all the essential gear.

Honestly, life with my Vizsla in Ireland, and particularly in Cork, is made so much easier and more enjoyable by the sheer number of dog-friendly amenities. From the sprawling parks and welcoming beaches to the supportive community and readily available services, it truly feels like a place where dogs aren’t just tolerated, they’re embraced. It allows us to live the active, adventurous life that a Vizsla thrives on.

So, if you’re in Ireland with your furry companion, or considering a move, I can wholeheartedly say that Cork is a fantastic place to explore and call home. Now, if you’ll excuse me, a certain ginger shadow is nudging my hand – I think it’s time for another adventure!

Happy trails and wagging tails, everyone!