Wet Nose Animal Rescue calls for community support amid growing needs

For more than 25 years, Wet Nose Animal Rescue Centre has been a beacon of hope for abandoned, abused, and neglected animals in the east.

The organisation was established in April 1999 as a registered non-profit organisation.

Wet Nose has dedicated itself to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals from all walks of life.

According to Wet Nose marketing manager Declan Rodocanachi, they are operating without the aid of the government or municipality.

He said Wet Nose relies entirely on the kindness of the public to continue its vital work.

“As a right-to-life shelter, Wet Nose ensures that euthanasia is only considered when an animal’s suffering cannot be alleviated, prioritising their care and well-being at every stage.”

Currently, Wet Nose cares for over 300 animals, including dogs, cats, and horses.

Rodocanachi said the number of dogs in their care fluctuates depending on adoptions and new rescues.

“Due to the shelter’s right-to-life policy, many dogs stay for extended periods until they find their forever home, some waiting for years,” he said.

He added that their primary goal is to provide a second chance to abandoned animals, offering them medical care, socialisation, training, and proper nutrition until they can be rehomed.

As part of their ongoing mission, Wet Nose is issuing a call for urgent donations of blankets and dry adult dog food.

Rodocanachi explained that these play a direct role in the comfort and recovery of the dogs in their care.

“The demand for blankets and dry dog food is high and will remain so as long as we continue to care for over 300 animals,” said Rodocanachi.

“We are asking for as many blankets as the public can provide, preferably the more affordable types, so we can cover the needs of as many animals as possible.”

He said for dog food, they simply request high-quality, nutritionally balanced options to keep dogs healthy.

“Every donation helps, whether it’s one blanket or several bags of dog food.”

He added that the donations are essential – not only for the animals’ physical health but also for their mental well-being, as comfort and routine are crucial for their recovery and eventual rehoming.

Wet Nose also needs volunteers to provide extra care for the animals.

“Volunteers play a key role, offering extra care, including walking the dogs, grooming, and providing companionship,” said Rodocanachi.

He said all of these efforts help reduce stress and prepare the dogs for life in a new home.

Beyond the day-to-day care, Wet Nose operates an on-site animal clinic, where all animals are given medical attention upon arrival.

Rodocanachi explained that these include vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and sterilisation, as well as treatment for any injuries or illnesses.

“The shelter is committed to ensuring that all animals are healthy, well-cared-for, and ready for adoption when the right family comes along.”

Wet Nose’s funding relies heavily on public donations, which come in the form of one-time contributions, monthly sponsorships, and ongoing support from various fundraising events.

These include their annual events, such as the Pamper-a-Pooch Day on Nelson Mandela Day, where companies and individuals are invited to spend time with the dogs, and the Colour Run.

Rodocanachi said the Colour Run has become a popular event in which participants walk the dogs while having fun with coloured powder and other activities.

“The shelter is in partnership with local businesses, like Riders Saddlery in Pretoria east, which serves as a drop-off point for donations,” he said.

Wet Nose frequently shares success stories about rescued animals to highlight the impact that donations and community support have on the lives of the animals.

One such story is that of Jenna, a German Shepherd who lost a leg after a severe injury.

Rodocanachi said despite her difficult start, Jenna found a loving home where she could thrive.

“Similarly, Popcorn, a dog who was found tied up in a bag on the roadside, made a full recovery thanks to community support and is now enjoying a new life with her forever family.”

As Wet Nose continues its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals, the organisation is calling for more community involvement.

Volunteers are always welcome to help with various tasks at the shelter, including walking dogs, socialising puppies and cats, and assisting with the daily chores that keep the shelter running.

Individuals and organisations can also support Wet Nose by sponsoring kennels, making monthly donations, or participating in fundraising campaigns.

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