A recent case of mistaken identity in County Clare, Ireland, has brought unexpected fame to a Newfoundland dog named Mouse. Reports of a ‘lion-like’ animal spotted in a wooded area prompted a police investigation after a video went viral on social media on October 29. Gardaí (Irish police) later confirmed that the animal in question was not a lion but Mouse, a friendly Newfoundland dog. The confusion arose due to Mouse’s shaved coat, which altered his appearance significantly. Gardaí from Killaloe humorously remarked, ‘If you go down to the woods today… it’s not a lion you will find but the very friendly Newfoundland dog named Mouse.’
Mouse’s owner had recently shaved his coat, a practice generally discouraged for Newfoundland dogs due to their double-layered fur, which regulates body temperature and protects their skin. Siobhan McHaffie, Director of Operations at The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA), emphasized that shaving such breeds is not advisable unless for medical reasons. ‘Their thick double coat plays a vital role in regulating temperature and protecting their skin. Removing it can lead to sunburn, overheating, and other health complications,’ she explained.
Despite the grooming controversy, Mouse has reportedly embraced his newfound fame. The USPCA expressed relief that the situation was resolved without harm to the dog or the public. The incident highlights the importance of proper pet care and the unexpected consequences of viral social media posts.