The Wet Nose Animal Rescue Shelter, based in the east of Pretoria, has been named runner-up for Best Animal Shelter in the 2026 Best of Pretoria Awards.

Established in April 1999, Wet Nose cares for more than 300 animals and is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming abused, abandoned and neglected animals.

In 2010, the organisation opened Wet Nose Animal Clinic. The fully equipped veterinary facility treats private clients, with every rand of profit going straight back into the medical care of shelter animals.

The clinic also keeps prices low, giving pet owners facing a medical emergency an affordable option to help their animals.

General manager Cameron Herselman said the recognition was a meaningful acknowledgement of the organisation’s work.

“To be nominated and recognised in the Best of Pretoria Awards is an incredible honour. It tells us that our hard work is seen, our mission is valued, and that the community stands behind our cause,” Herselman said.

He added that the placement carried personal significance too, as it reflected the trust clients have placed in the shelter’s dual role as both a clinic and a rescue operation.

“It tells us that our hard work is noticed, and that our clients chose Wet Nose Clinic to heal their own pets while providing the funds we need to heal the community’s forgotten animals,” he said.

Herselman said Wet Nose stands apart because it is independent of government or municipal funding.

“Our money comes from the public, who believe in our purpose-over-profit approach. If you support Wet Nose Animal Clinic, you also give back by helping an animal in the shelter.”

Looking ahead, Herselman said the award would spur the organisation to grow its reach.

“It will encourage us to expand and upgrade our facilities to reach even more private clients,” the general manager added.

Herselman pointed to the animals themselves as the ultimate drive.

“To see a wag in their tail in a new forever home is a feeling that never gets old. But we can only do this with the help of our wonderful community backing us all the way.”

He thanked all voters and the community for their support.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Pretoria. And from every animal in our care, paw love to you,” Herselman emphasised.

His advice to other organisations is simple: serve beyond measure.

“Build your business on serving others, whether they have two legs or four. Treat everyone like family, and let people see your passion.”

Wet Nose Animal Clinic can be reached on 068 098 8149, and the shelter on 082 677 8086.