Petmania Ruby Heart Awards open nominations
Petmania opens Ruby Heart Awards 2026 nominations celebrating inspiring pets across Ireland with entries closing 6 May
Print20 April 2026
They’ve been by your side through thick and thin, made you laugh when you needed it most, or shown unbelievable bravery in the face of challenge, and now, your pet could be recognised with a national award.
Following the successful launch of the first categories earlier this year, Petmania has now opened nominations for the complete lineup of Petmania Ruby Heart Awards 2026 categories, shining a spotlight on the pets themselves and the extraordinary role they play in our lives.
From now until 6 May 2026, Petmania is calling on pet parents across Ireland to share the stories of their inspiring, quirky, cuddly, courageous or downright legendary pets. From pets who keep us laughing to those who’ve shown remarkable resilience, every story deserves to be celebrated.
The Petmania Ruby Heart Awards are a nationwide celebration of the powerful and unbreakable bond between pets and their people, recognising the joy, comfort and companionship animals bring into everyday life.
“We created the Petmania Ruby Heart Awards to celebrate the powerful bond between pets and people,” says Emily Miller, marketing manager at Petmania.
“Pets are part of our families, and we know there are so many inspiring stories out there that deserve to be heard, celebrated and shared. Following the incredible response to this year’s awards so far, we’re delighted that every category is now open to truly put pets centre stage.”
Award categories now open
Golden Oldie 2026 – Sponsored by Whimzees
Celebrating the charm, wisdom and unconditional love of our senior pets. Whether they’re 7 or 17, this award is for the golden-hearted companions who continue to light up their families’ lives with wagging tails and soulful eyes.
Bravest Pet 2026 – Sponsored by Benebone
For the warriors in fur coats, this category recognises pets who have shown extraordinary courage, battled illness, bounced back from injury, or supported their humans through life’s toughest moments.
Favourite Feline 2026 – Sponsored by Schesir
Putting our feline friends in the spotlight, this award celebrates Ireland’s most treasured cats, whether they rule the roost with sass, bring calm with a purr, or simply make every day better.
Family Pet 2026 – Sponsored by Wellness Core
This award honours the beloved pet at the heart of the home who makes the family complete.
Petfluencer 2026 – Sponsored by Kong
Recognising the pets who are social media stars in their own right. Whether they raise awareness, spread smiles, or entertain thousands online, this award celebrates their impact both on and offline.
Rescue Pet 2026 – Sponsored by Gain Elite
This award celebrates pets who have overcome difficult beginnings to become cherished members of their families. It recognises the remarkable journeys of rescue animals and the joy, comfort, and companionship they bring to their forever homes.
Helping Paw 2026 – Sponsored by Purina
As pets play an increasingly vital role in supporting human wellbeing, this category honours exceptional therapy and service animals who make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Open to pets providing support in home or community settings, this award recognises those who offer care, comfort, and assistance in truly impactful ways.
Community & venue categories
Petmania is also continuing to recognise the people, places, and organisations making Ireland more pet-friendly than ever.
Nominations remain open for Dog Friendly Venue, Pet Friendly Workplace and Rescue Activity 2026, celebrating the businesses, communities and rescue groups going above and beyond for pets and their owners.
With a prize fund of over €5,000, winners of the Petmania Ruby Heart Awards will receive national recognition and will be announced at a special awards ceremony in Kilkenny on 10 June 2026.
Entries for all categories are now open at www.petmania.ie/ruby-heart and will close on 6 May 2026. Public voting will follow before the final winners are crowned.
If you’ve got a pet with a story worth celebrating, now is your chance to let the nation know.
Read more: Petmania Ruby Heart Awards return
© 2026, ShelfLife by Ryan Brennan
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