Ixchel, Cofounder and shelter manager of Wet Noses Rescue took the time to sit down with us to tell us more about their nonprofit. It is an organization that dedicates their time adopting and rescuing animals that are in need. Lets jump right in!

Can you tell me a bit about yourself? 

I was born and raised in Mexico City, and went to university in Mexico City for a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology. As a clinical psychologist in Mexico City, my job was very challenging emotionally, and after a few years I knew that I needed a change. So, I quit my job and took the risk of moving to Cozumel to work as a waitress then manager of a restaurant, and learn how to scuba dive. I enjoyed my time in Cozumel but discovered Sayulita on a vacation and felt a connection instantly. In 2015 I moved to Sayulita.

How did you land in Sayulita?

City life was not for me, and I have a very strong pull toward nature and animals. I loved scuba diving in Cozumel, so I traveled to Sayulita once and fell in love instantly. This is the perfect place enjoy nature, animals, and yoga, which are some of my passions.

Can you tell me about what inspired you to start your business?

I have been rescuing animals since I was a child – when I was in Mexico City I always had between 8-10 dogs in my family, in Cozumel I had 3. I continued rescuing in Sayulita instantly, just rescuing a few animals at a dog, getting them all healthy, and finding them homes. Then, I met Kristi and we instantly connected because of our passion for animal rescue – we filled both of our houses with dogs and just wished we could help more animals in the area. That’s when we realized we needed to think bigger and start a rescue and shelter.

What services do you offer?

We rescue dogs and cats in dire need of help, host spay/neuter clinics, and adopt out healthy pets locally and internationally. 

Tell me a bit about your background with this industry?

I have been rescuing since I can remember. When I started small in the city and Cozumel, I learned a lot about how to help these pets in dire need. 

How long has your business been in operation?

Wet Noses Rescue opened about 1 year ago. We received our official 501c3 status just a few months ago.

What are your future plans for your business? Any new goals?

Our dream is to be able to rescue all animals that need it, but sadly we get messages every single day to help an animal in need. With that said, we are very passionate about the education piece of animal rescue. We would love to engage with the community more to encourage and decrease any barriers to vet care for local pets. 

Can you share a happy memory with a client?

Some parts of rescue are really hard, but the happiest moments are when a dog that we have given so much love and attention arrives to their forever home and instantly becomes a part of this amazing new family. Recently, we had a dog named Maya who was completely emaciated and wounded living by the trash dump. She took many months to regain strength, and even longer to gain confidence around people. Now, she is living an amazing life in northern california with a couple and their dog. These moments make the hard work so meaningful.