Crossword Genius

Employee of "The Shamrock Hair Salon" who's a pet? (5,6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

irish setter

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'pet?' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both animals as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for irish setter that I've seen before include "Dog from the Emerald Isle" , "Kind of dog" , "Breed of dog" , "Dog with dark red coat" , "best friend" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app