Michael McIlorum reveals he took FOUR dogs to France – but a horse stayed in UK
Catalans Dragons hooker made sure most of his animals went with him to Perpignan, but one prized possession had to remain in the UK
MICHAEL McIlorum admits he turned dog whisperer in order to become a Dragon.
But his talents could not extend to horses as he was forced to leave one at home when he headed to France.
The Catalans hooker is ready to tame the Wolves as the French side steps out at Wembley to face Warrington in Saturday’s Challenge Cup Final.
However, tackling problems animals can cause is old hat to the former Wigan man after taking a pack of dogs when he moved.
McIlorum said: “I took my two dogs over and brought Jodie Broughton’s two with me. I ended up taking four over!
“It wasn’t too bad actually, they slept most of the way. All they needed was an injection and a little doggy passport. Then we just got on Tunnel for 30 minutes to Calais.
“But I bought my missus a horse about two years ago and it was too difficult to take it over to France. She was heartbroken.
“Life in France is very different but it’s something I’ve embraced. My partner and dogs absolutely love it!”
Catalans’ Wembley appearance was as unlikely as their shock semi-final win over St Helens was three months ago.
Steve McNamara’s side floundered at the bottom of Super League but a sensational charge could see the Challenge Cup head to Perpignan.
And McIlorum knows a trophy would be heralded like it would at his former club.
The 30-year-old, veteran of three Wembley showpieces for the Warriors, added: “When you play against Catalans, they get big crowds of 9,000 or 10,000 so you can feel the passion.
“A big thing was we didn’t have a pre-season together and a few new faces but once we got a settled team, it’s helped a lot.”