Fresh Pet Food Gets $5M Health Boost

The Health Span Crisis: Why Your Dog Needs Fresher Food

Real Pet Food Company (RPF), pioneers in the fresh dog food category, has just announced a multi-million-dollar investment right here in Sydney. On Thursday, November 13, 2025, they launched Fresh(labs), Asia-Pacific's first dedicated research and development initiative focused on fresher pet nutrition.

The driving force behind this investment is a critical issue facing our pets. While they might be living longer, their health span—the years they live in good health—is declining.

RPF CEO Germaine Chua points out that conditions like obesity, allergies, gastrointestinal disease, and chronic illness are on the rise, and diet is a key factor.

"Evidence points to diet as a key driver, with fresh nutrition shown to protect and extend healthspans," Chua said. "Put simply, pets aren't eating enough fresh food."

What is 'Fresher' Pet Nutrition?

For the Real Pet Food Company, "fresh food" is defined as being less processed, including options that are freeze-dried, air-dried, gently cooked, or raw. These diets offer protective benefits that support your pet's vitality, resilience, and overall healthspan.

The goal of Fresh(labs) is to accelerate the science and public education surrounding this approach, ensuring Australian pet parents and industry professionals have the knowledge needed to give pets a healthier life. As the number one independent pet food company in the Asia-Pacific region, RPF aims to stay at the forefront of innovation.

The Five Key Fresh(labs) Initiatives

The multi-million-dollar investment is kicking off with five major initiatives focused on driving innovation and research:

1. A World-Leading Independent Advisory Board

Fresh(labs) is establishing an independent advisory board of global scientists, including Australian expertise, to guide their research:

• Dr. Anna Hielm-Björkman (founder, DogRisk, University of Helsinki)

• Dr. Nicole Rous (Integrative Veterinary Scientist, Australia)

• Dr. David Thomas (feline nutrition expert, Massey University)

• Dr. Emma Bermingham (small animal nutritional scientist, ex-Waltham Institute)

2. Support for Global Pet Research

RPF is providing multi-year support for the renowned DogRisk program at the University of Helsinki and is underwriting the development and launch of the new CatRisk program, focusing specifically on feline health.

3. Asia-Pacific Healthspan Study

A world-first research program will be launched to measure pet health spans across the Asia-Pacific region. This will include creating vital benchmarks on fresh share-of-bowl and calorific coverage to better understand the impact of diet.

4. Investment in Kitchen Technology

The company is making a significant investment in fresher kitchen technology to advance the safe production of minimally processed pet food at scale, making fresher diets more accessible.

5. The Fresher Futures Scholarship Program

To foster the next generation of pet nutrition experts, the program will fund post-graduate research at leading independent universities.

Dr. Anna Hielm-Björkman, a member of the new board, expressed her support: "Their mission is critical to pets everywhere. With Fresh(labs)' independent board and science-led focus, we will innovate to improve pet healthspans."

Fresh(labs) is intended to be the industry’s central thought leadership and innovation hub, dedicated to publishing original research, educating veterinarians and pet parents, and developing commercial products to meet the rising demand for fresh pet nutrition across the Asia-Pacific region.

About the Company:

Real Pet Food Company is the largest provider of fresher pet nutrition in Australia and New Zealand.

The Hidden Cost of 'Furever' Love: Why Planning is Paramount

Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) urges every Australian pet owner to plan ahead. Advanced vet care and rising costs are pushing pet ownership into a serious long-term financial commitment.

With Christmas approaching, the excitement of welcoming a new puppy is palpable. But PIA is asking all would-be pet parents to pause: that new furry friend comes with a serious, decade-long financial commitment that few are prepared for.

The cost-of-living crunch is affecting our pets, too. Tragically, overflowing rescue shelters are a heart-breaking sign that many owners are struggling to keep up with the true cost of modern care.

“Today, veterinary treatment mirrors human healthcare, offering high-tech diagnostics and specialist care—and yes, the costs mirror them too,” says Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia. “This is the moment for families to have a necessary, open conversation about budgeting and responsible pet ownership. Pets are for life, not just for Christmas, and knowing the true cost of care from day one is the only way to prevent unnecessary heartbreak down the track.”

Advanced Vet Care: Why the Bills are so High

Cutting-edge diagnostics are revolutionising pet outcomes.

“These lifesaving tools don’t come cheap. An MRI scan averages $3,500 and complex oncology assessments often surpass $8,000*. These high-tech procedures give our beloved furry family members the best shot at recovery, but they carry a hefty price tag.”


Pharmaceuticals now account for nearly 30% of all vet-care expenses. This includes long-term treatments for chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes, which can cost thousands of dollars annually.

“This drive is fuelled by veterinary clinics investing heavily in the latest technology, specialist teams, and Intensive Care Units (ICUs) — all without public subsidies,” Crighton notes. “While we want the very best health technology for our pets, the cost structure is catching pet owners off guard, especially those unaware of common breed-specific health problems and the reality of modern veterinary costs.”

Your Vet is Your Partner: Understanding the Cost Reality

Sadly, many veterinarians are facing growing frustration—and in some cases, abuse—from pet owners who are simply shocked by the treatment costs.

Yet, these fees reflect the true cost of modern, hospital-level veterinary care. With no government subsidies and massive overheads for advanced equipment and highly skilled staff, most vet clinics operate on razor-thin margins while providing care that rivals human hospitals.

“The harsh reality is that a serious injury or illness can hit Australian owners with costs comparable to human healthcare,” Crighton warns. “And too often, pet parents are simply not financially prepared.”

This is the critical difference: Australia has no equivalent to human Medicare when it comes to pets. This means 100% of the veterinary costs, especially for advanced or emergency care, fall directly onto the pet owner.

The price of these lifesaving procedures is a massive financial shock during an already stressful time for too many unsuspecting owners. This is why Pet Insurance Australia urges anyone considering ownership to seriously and immediately factor in the rising costs of veterinary treatments and long-term care.

Why It Matters: Your Pet is Living Longer and Better

“Today’s pets have access to exceptional treatments and medications, and as a result, they’re living longer, healthier lives,” Crighton says. “It’s crucial that anyone considering pet ownership understands the long-term commitment involved, including the ongoing costs of caring for a companion who could live well beyond 12 years.”

With pets living longer and veterinary medicine becoming more sophisticated, the potential for very large bills is growing exponentially.

“We constantly hear of pet owners desperately trying to get insurance after their pet has fallen seriously ill,” Crighton says. 

“It is often too late. The condition is now chronic and pre-existing, meaning it will not be covered. You must plan ahead.” 

The Responsible Dog Lover’s Checklist

• Perform a Breed Health Audit: Have a clear understanding of your pet's breed and its common, high-cost health concerns (e.g., hip dysplasia, specific cancers).

• Get the True Cost Picture: Talk to your vet to get a clear estimate of possible treatment costs for common conditions before they happen.

• Master Your Policy: Understand what your pet insurance covers before you need it. Always check limits, sub-limits, and exclusions.

• Prioritise Wellness: Invest in regular wellness visits to catch issues early. Reactive care is always more expensive than proactive prevention.

• Budget for the Unexpected: Create a dedicated savings plan or secure an insurance policy, treating it just like human health budgeting.

“While Christmas brings the joy of a new pet, remember that planning is paramount,” Crighton concludes. 

“Responsible ownership now goes far beyond food, toys, and bedding. A solid financial plan—be it insurance or a savings fund—and a health budget agreed upon before your pet arrives home is essential to avoid unnecessary stress and heartache later on.”

Source: https://petsure.com.au/pet-health-monitor/

Important Disclosure Information:

Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.

Sydney's 'Met Gala for Dogs' is Coming: Get Ready for the Festive Fashion Pawrade!

Sydney's social calendar is about to get a whole lot more glamorous—and furrier. Prepare for an event already being hailed as "The Met Gala for Dogs" as the inaugural Double Bay Festive Fashion Pawrade arrives in the city's east.

Mark your diaries! On Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Guilfoyle Park in Double Bay—the heart of the Eastern Suburbs—will be transformed into a dazzling runway. This brand-new community fixture is set to bring together Sydney’s most stylish pups, their devoted owners, and local personalities for a joyful, visually spectacular day, all while proudly supporting RSPCA NSW.

A Dog Fashion Show Like No Other

Forget your standard pet costume parade; this is about high canine couture. Guests can expect a runway filled with four-legged fashionistas sporting genuinely couture-inspired outfits. Think miniature Chanel-style tweeds, perfect Miu Miu bows, delicate Dior florals, and festive ensembles dripping in holiday glam.

The main attraction is the highly anticipated Dog Fashion Runway, where pups of all shapes, breeds, and personalities will compete for top honours. Judging the fierce competition is a high-profile panel, including:

• Martine Chippendale – Star of The Real Housewives of Sydney

• Melissa Hoyer – Renowned Fashion & Lifestyle Commentator

A Community Event With Heart

What makes the Pawrade truly special is its noble purpose. The event is a critical fundraiser for RSPCA NSW, helping to generate much-needed funds and awareness to support neglected, abandoned, and surrendered animals across the state. Every ticket sold helps give a second chance to an animal in need.

This heart-warming cause has brought the local business
community together, with incredible support from partners including:

• Fido & Fido (grooming partner)

• MyCavoodle

• Vet HQ

• Kimpton Margot Hotel

• Mandalay Flowers

• Harlow Harry

• Knose Pet Insurance

• ...and over a dozen more generous contributors and sponsors.

For those securing VIP tickets, expect a treat: luxury gift bags valued at $150+, showcasing premium products from these partners.

What Else to Expect on the Day

The Festive Fashion Pawrade is designed to be a full, immersive, and sensory experience for the whole family, celebrating the undeniable bond between pets and their people. Beyond the runway, the day’s activities include:

• Doggy Doga (Dog Yoga) sessions

• Santa Photos for Pets & Owners

• Live music & festive entertainment

• On-site dog illustrators offering bespoke portraits

• Delicious food and drink options, including trendy Matcha tastings

• Best Dressed and Lucky Door Prizes

Hosted by local community figures, pet advocates and Nicole and Baby, in partnership with Woollahra Council, this is the perfect family-friendly outing to kick off the holiday season while making a meaningful impact.

Don't miss the chance to witness Sydney’s most fashionable dog event of the year!

Get your tickets now at: festivefashionpawrade.eventbrite.com.au

Images Credit (all): Hergott Photography

Future Vet Kids Camp returns January 2026 to inspire Australia’s next generation of vets and animal lovers!

If your child dreams of caring for animals big and small and doesn’t mind a bit of slobber or slime along the way, Future Vet Kids Camp is the ultimate school holiday adventure!

Future Vet Kids Camp is an exciting face-to-face and virtual school holiday program that encourages responsible pet ownership, celebrates the profession of veterinary medicine, and nurtures a love and appreciation of all animals and their habitats! Designed by veterinarians and led by Bondi Vet TV’s twin veterinarians Drs Audrey and Alison Shen, the 5-day program is aimed at kids aged 9 to 17 years and combines fun, education, and hands-on experience.

The Sydney Camp will be held at Waverley College in Waverley on two sets of dates: January 5 – 9 and January 12 – 16, 2026. A Virtual Online Camp will run concurrently with the Sydney headquarters program from January 4 - 16, 2026, allowing kids across Australia and overseas to join the classroom live, ask questions, and participate in real time.

“Whether it’s examining wildlife, learning pet CPR, or discovering new careers with animals, the program blends education, adventure, and inspiration in one unforgettable week!” said Dr Audrey.


Campers will explore a wide range of animal-related careers and specialties, from ultrasound, acupuncture, and reptile care to grooming, dog training, animal rehabilitation, marine biology, and more.

They’ll also dive into topics like pet nutrition, genetic disorders, exotic animals, rescue operations, and wildlife conservation, enjoy behind-the-scenes tours of leading veterinary hospitals, and take part in many exciting excursions.

One of the camp’s highlights is a visit to Hills Wildlife Sanctuary in the Berowra Valley National Park at Dural - Sydney’s hub for biodiversity conservation, education, and threatened species recovery.

“Kids will enjoy a rare glimpse behind the scenes of a working wildlife sanctuary and gain a deeper understanding of the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of native Australian wildlife,” said Ben Dessen, Director and Sanctuary Manager.

Back at camp headquarters, Dr Alison, The Acupuncture Vet, will demonstrate veterinary acupuncture and laser therapy in action, showing how these treatments promote healing and wellbeing in animals.

Certified canine scent detection handler Tiffany Chapple and her Labrador, Hera – who have experience sniffing out dead bats, koala scat, and fox dens – will once again wow campers with a live demonstration of Hera’s search skills and break down the steps of training.

“The kids are often surprised that this is a job and wonder if their own pet dogs could do it!” said Tiffany.

Oliver Whetton, a former camper now working as a free flight bird keeper and studying toward a career in zookeeping, will introduce campers to the fascinating world of wildlife and share what it means to work with them. He’ll also run a hands-on session featuring his own birds.

“Kids of all ages love the immersive, hands-on activities,” said Dr Audrey. “Campers get to bake pet treats, practise bandaging, draw blood from realistic vet models, take part in dog training workshops, and even perform CPR on specially designed vet models. Junior Vets take things to the next level, tackling real-life cases, analysing imaging and blood work, and observing surgeries. It gives them a real feel for what it’s like to be a vet!”

Dr Alison added that the camp isn’t just for aspiring vets – it’s for all young animal lovers.

“With the challenges of a veterinary shortage and high dropout rates in vet school, early exposure like this can make all the difference in helping kids understand the realities of the profession,” she said. “Whether or not they pursue a veterinary career, the opportunity to explore other animal professions, connect with animals, learn from professionals, and make lifelong friends has an incredibly positive impact on their confidence and resilience.”

Scholarship & Registration Details

Future Vet Kids Camp is proud to announce scholarships for three deserving participants to attend the face-to-face Sydney camp (valued at $725 each) and three for the Virtual Online Camp (valued at $295 each). 

The deadline to apply is Friday, 12 December 2025. For more information, selection criteria, and how to apply, please visit the camp website here.

The Jan 2026 camp is anticipated to fill up just as fast as the last summer, so don't miss out! Register now!

January 2026 Registration Open Now! 

The Face-to-Face Camp at Waverley College runs from 9am – 3:30pm daily and costs $725. 

The Virtual Online Camp runs January 4 – 16, 2026, and costs $295. 

For more information and to register online, please visit https://futurevetkidscamp.com or phone 0435 267 252.

Program Schedule 

More Camps and locations to come! 

Future Vet Kids Camp will also run face-to-face and online (Virtual Camp) during the school holidays in Melbourne and Brisbane, dates to be announced. Register your interest here.

🎁 Give the Gift of Animal Adventures This Christmas!

Make Gifting Easy: Purchase your Christmas Gift Vouchers today and give an unforgettable experience to the animal lover in your life!

About Future Vet Kids Camp

Future Vet Kids Camp offers a safe, comfortable environment that explores and nurtures the human animal bond all under the supervision of highly qualified, enthusiastic instructors and specialised animal handlers. The goals are to promote responsible pet ownership, the profession of veterinary medicine, and to encourage the children to love and appreciate animals of all kinds. The camp has more than 20 partners that offer years of specialised animal experience and professionalism that contributes greatly to the programming. 

The January Camp operates out of Waverley College in Waverley and runs every January for two weeks during the school holidays. Programming is split into three separate age groups running simultaneously each week: Wombats (ages 9-11), Kookaburras (ages 12-14) and the Junior Vet program (ages 14-17). 

To discover more, visit www.futurevetkidscamp.com

Christmas shopping for the devoted Australian dog or cat parent starts here! Forget the boring gifts! We've curated a hand-picked collection of premium, ethically sourced presents that deliver utility, style, and joy this festive season. 

Discover innovative pet technology that eliminates the chore of cleaning, high-end accessories and leather goods for the adventurous dog, and stylish apparel and homewares that let pet parents celebrate their fur babies. This guide features the very best of Australian-made quality, from grooming solutions to unique safety gear.

Whether you're looking for a top-tier gift, an unforgettable experience, or a small charity-focused item, we've covered every pet-loving person on your list. Ready to shop local and grab your exclusive savings? Let the scrolling begin!

Give the Ultimate Gift: A Hair-Free, Sparkling Home!

Tired of giving gifts that just gather dust? This Christmas, give the pet parent in your life the gift of time and a truly spotless home with the Narwal Flow Zero-Tangle Pet Hair Cleaner.

Engineered specifically for the challenges of pet ownership, this robot revolution eliminates shedding stress. It boasts an incredible 22,000Pa Turbo Suction to pull deeply embedded hair and dander from carpets, and its Dual-Flow Tangle-Free System ensures you never have to waste time cutting hair out of the brush roll again—ever.

More than just a vacuum, the Flow’s Hot Water Mopping System scrubs away muddy paw prints and accidents with 45°C heated water. Plus, the system fully Self-Cleans at the base station and features a 120-Day Self-Emptying dust bag. Thanks to TwinAI Obstacle Avoidance, it even navigates around pet toys and cords with precision.

It's the ultimate home upgrade for any Aussie pet-loving household. Save $500 during Narwal Black Friday Big Sale! Shop the Narwal Flow - Robot Vacuum & Mop

Give the gift of stress free grooming with the ultra light, ultra quiet Fur King Dog Hair Clippers.

Perfect for nervous pups and busy dog mums alike. Weighing just 218g and offering up to 4 hours of cordless runtime, this sleek kit features replaceable ceramic blades, twin speeds (6,000 and 7,000 RPM) and includes combs and scissors for a salon style finish at home. 

With low noise and low vibration design it is a game changer for dogs who dread clipping time.

Why you’ll love it: A one and done gift that gives back. $1 from every sale supports Doggie Rescue. 

Perfect for: The dog mum who wants to look after her pup’s coat, save grooming bills and keep things calm this summer. 

RRP: $149.99. Save 25% during Black Friday sales and Snap Up the Fur King Dog Hair Clippers for a Calm Christmas

All You Want for Christmas Is a Fur-Free Home and a Happy Pooch? Wish Granted!

This festive season, if your dog’s loose fur feels like the gift that keeps on giving, you’re not alone! While it’s Christmas for you, it’s shedding season for your pup — and their dead undercoat is feeling extra generous.

Keep the fur out of your festivities and your daily morning coffees with the Refuresh Deshedding Brush. Designed with a unique teeth structure, it gently removes the dead undercoat without damaging the topcoat unlike traditional deshedding brushes— no pulling, no tugging, just effective deshedding.

Looking for the paw-fect gift? Gifting Refuresh is gifting the promise of a cleaner, fresher home and a happier pup for this Christmas and for years to come.

RRP from $56.45. Shop the full Refuresh range now!

Travel with peace of mind these holidays with a Pawmanity Bench Seat Cover!

Heading away with your dog or the kids? The Pawmanity Bench Seat Cover keeps your back seat spotless while ensuring everyone rides in comfort. Made from premium, heavy-duty fabric with a non-slip backing, it offers stylish protection from fur, sand and spills.

✔️ Heavy-duty fabric
✔️ Non-slip backing
✔️ Easy access to all three seatbelts – perfect for families
✔️ ISOFIX compatible
✔️ Wraparound design for seat-side protection
✔️ 60/40 split compatibility

Durable, practical and family-friendly – the perfect gift for dog lovers hitting the road this summer!

RRP: $159.00. Get the Pawmanity Bench Seat Cover for Spotless Back Seats

Give your furry friend the freedom they deserve with the Crocpad Dog Ramp — the ultimate solution for safe and easy water access!

Designed with durable, marine-grade materials, this ramp floats securely on pools, pontoons, and docks, helping dogs of all sizes enter and exit the water effortlessly. 

Whether it’s for playtime, hydrotherapy, or a cool dip on a hot day, Crocpad’s non-slip surface ensures confidence with every step. Lightweight, portable, and easy to set up, it’s perfect for travel, boating, or backyard pools. 

Built tough for the Australian outdoors, the Crocpad Dog Ramp keeps pets happy, healthy, and active — while giving owners peace of mind.

Crocpad — Safe. Strong. Smart for your best mate. 

Grab 10% Off! As a thank you to our Australian Dog Lovers, use code AUSTRALIANDOGLOVER at checkout to save on your CrocPad order. 

Shop now at www.crocpad.com!

Tees, hoodies and sweatshirts that 'speak pet' plus NEW breed collection!

Looking for the perfect Christmas gifts for the pet lovers in your life? Check out Super Unleashed’s collection of cool fashion, inspired by the inner thoughts of your dogs and cats.

There’s also a new breed-specific range for dog lovers – from Dachshund devotees to Schnauzer fans and Oodle oglers. With so many styles, designs and colours to choose from, your Christmas list just got a whole lot easier.

And as a special offer to Australian Dog and Cat Lovers, you’ll get FREE SHIPPING on your order!

Shop superunleashed.com

BOIS, known for their matching hoodies and hats, have created the cutest custom pet portrait felt ornaments for the holiday season!

BOIS products are proudly Australian-made and they give a portion of every order to animal rescues so you can feel extra good about spoiling your pups!

As always, BOIS has a large range of matching hoodies and bucket hats, including some NEW propeller hats for some fun in the sun! 

Receive your exclusive discount of 15% off with code ADL2025. Shop their Custom Pet Portrait Ornaments or their Matching Propeller Hats at boisthelabel.com 

The Petstock Foundation Buddy is ready to spread festive cheer! Soft, cuddly, and full of fun, it features crinkle material and a squeaker to keep your dog entertained. Made from polyester, 100% post-consumer recycled polyester fill, crinkle material and squeaker.

Plus, 100% of profits from all Festive Buddy Dog Toy sales go towards the Petstock Foundation to help pets and families in need.

There are so many ways that pets can improve people's lives. The Petstock Foundation exists to strengthen this rewarding bond, empowering a better future for both pets and people.

Click here to discover more about its partners and initiatives on the Petstock website.

RRP: $14.97 from petstock.com.au

Spoil your dog with a PK9 Premium Leather Dog Collar!

For those who believe in giving their dog the best, the PK9 Collar Collection offers unparalleled quality and durability.

Each collar is designed for the active, adventurous dog and made to withstand the test of time, balancing rugged resilience with a comfortable fit.

With meticulous stitching and a secure, adjustable fit, PK9 Collars ensure your dog is both stylish and ready for any challenge.

Holiday Special: Treat your dog to the luxury of a PK9 Collar this Christmas. With exclusive holiday pricing, there’s never been a better time to invest in a collar that combines strength, style, and PK9’s trusted commitment to quality.

Spoil your dog with a collar built to last — crafted to meet the highest standards, just like they deserve.

Shop PK9 Collars and Get 25% Off with code ADL25.

Make Their Smile Sparkle This Christmas! Treat your pup to a jolly chew that’s as fun as it is functional.

The Whimzees Toothbrush Variety Value Box delivers bite-sized chews in a mix of shapes and sizes—perfect for dogs who want to crunch into the holiday spirit. 

These vegetarian, grain-free and gluten-free treats are free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives, and they carry the VOHC seal for plaque and tartar control.

Whether you’re sneaking them into the stocking or dropping them under the tree, this value box is the paw-fect way to keep tails wagging and teeth shining bright throughout the festive season. Ready to gift a happy, healthy smile?

Shop the Whimzees Variety Value Box on Amazon

Spoilt Gift & Homewares has a great selection of dog-themed gift ideas for any dog loving friend this Christmas. 

You can’t go past their bestselling adorable dog planters and quirky dog-themed gift ideas!

They also have a huge range of dog-themed socks, jewellery, games, mugs, puzzles, toys, and even a great new range of Bluey toys! 

You'll find everything for a fun Christmas present for a dog lover at spoilt.com.au.
Shop the complete dog-themed collection now!

Spoil a Dachshund devotee (or yourself!) with the ultimate accessory obsession: the Dachshund Cross Body Bag in genuine, soft, and durable leather. 

This 23cm x 16.5cm x 7.5cm bag is the perfect size for everyday essentials—no need to sacrifice style for functionality!

Wear it over the shoulder or across your body, leaving your hands free and valuables close. It comes with a dust bag and subtle gold hardware, featuring an external zipper and two handy internal pockets. Choose from seven colours, including Black, Tan, Taupe, Red, and Blue.

Enhance your look by adding the comfortable, 5cm wide Dachshund strap (adjustable 75cm–132cm) to mix and match. Also check out the Dachshund Sling Bag and Purse!

Shop the Dachshund Bag & Straps Now

Rieko’s World – Where Words Transform Spaces and Dog Hair Adds Texture!

Because dog mums are real mums too and their homes deserve chic comfort that celebrates their fur babies.

This Christmas, gift the magic of quote-driven cushion covers from Rieko’s World. Designed to be as meaningful as they are stylish, each cushion turns everyday dog mum chaos into cosy chic. 

With the Quote-to-Cosy™ Method, every design starts with words that warm the soul and ends with a home that feels beautiful, intentional, and unapologetically dog-obsessed.

Don’t just deck the halls – fluff the cushions! Wrap up comfort, connection and canine chic this Christmas. 

Shop the collection now at riekosworld.com.au and enjoy 25% off purchases over $40 with code DOGLOVERS25.

Treat your furry friend (and yourself!) to Sydney’s first-ever dog-friendly harbour cruise, curated by Sea Sydney Harbour — the Dogs on Deck Harbour Cruise!

This unique one-hour afternoon cruise offers breath-taking views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, combined with a fun, social experience for pups and their humans. 

Guests can enjoy a relaxed BYO drinks policy, grazing platters, and plenty of tail-wagging moments, while dogs mingle and explore the open deck. Perfect for creating lasting memories and photo opportunities, this cruise is ideal for adventurous dogs and their owners.

Ready to set sail? Treat your favourite pet parent (and their dog!) to a memory they'll never forget.

Limited spots per cruise. Bookings are essential! RRP: Adult $69, Child $29, Dog $19.

Grab a Gift Voucher or Book a Spot on the Harbour Cruise Today

Give the Gift of Adventure: Future Vet Kids Camp

Australia’s favourite veterinary-inspired school holiday program, Future Vet Kids Camp, is the perfect summer adventure present for animal-loving kids aged 9 to 17 years!

This 5-day camp is designed and run by expert veterinarians, including Vet twin sisters Drs Audrey and Alison Shen from the Bondi Vet TV show. 

The program encourages responsible pet ownership, explores the veterinary profession, and instils a deep appreciation for all animals and their habitats.

The Sydney camp returns to Waverley College with two sessions: Jan 5–9 and Jan 12–16, 2026. Can't make it in person? The Virtual Online Vet Camp will run concurrently, allowing aspiring young vets from around the world to join the classroom and participate in real time.

Visit Future Vet Kids Camp for details and to book this unique holiday gift 

Is This The Perfect Gift for Pet Lovers This Christmas?

Give yourself the gift of added peace of mind this festive season with Pet Insurance Australia’s Select & Protect — the flexible, fuss-free cover built by pet parents, for pet parents. PLUS get your first TWO Months Free*!

Select & Protect boasts one of the largest benefit limits - $35,000! Plus $25,000 or $15,000 options are available.
Choices of flexible benefit percentages (70%, 80% or 90%) and excess options designed to suit most budgets.

Enjoy no sub-limits, GapOnly® on-the-spot claims, and optional add-ons like Booster Care, for specified dental care, and specialised treatments like behavioural physiotherapy, acupuncture, and hydrotherapy. Or Routine Care^ for everyday vet costs.

Because the best gift of all is knowing your furry family is better protected — today and every day. Find out more at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au

*Offer and policy T&Cs apply. ^Routine Care is a non-insurance benefit.

Need a beautiful gift for your fur-baby obsessed friend or looking to treat yourself? Look no further than the expertly crafted new book A World of Dogs in Watercolour, published by Slattery Books.

Illustrated by the talented David Freedman and accompanied by expert words from Craig J. Whittle, explore the remarkable scope of humanity’s best friend.

Featuring over 140 dog breeds, prepare to come across some friendly faces and be surprised by less-familiar breeds. Freedman’s paintings impart character and warmth to each one, using clever watercolour techniques that have taken a lifetime to refine.

From Dalmatians to Danes and Schnauzers to Sheepdogs, there’s sure to be an illustration to pique the interest of dog and art lovers alike this Christmas.

RRP: $80. Purchase a copy now from all your favourite bookstores or order directly from Slattery Books

This Christmas, give a gift that truly gives back with the iconic Australian Firefighters 2026 Calendars. These aren't just stunning photos; they're a powerful force for good!

Choose from four heart-warming animal editions, including the beloved Dog, Cat, Horse, and Mixed Animal calendars—each featuring Australia’s heroes paired with adorable rescued pets and wildlife.

Every calendar purchase is a substantial donation. Proceeds support a vital range of causes, including critical animal welfare charities, children’s hospitals, disaster relief, and mental health services for first responders across Australia and internationally. This is the perfect blend of beauty and charity for any animal-obsessed friend.

Shop All Editions and Support Animal Welfare Today!

Deck the Paws: Shop Local, Save Lives!

Get ready for Christmas card photos! The Animal Welfare League NSW (AWLNSW) has released its popular range of festive apparel and gifts, and now includes adorable Christmas tree ornaments!

Score the ultimate matchy-matchy look with their new ‘Ugly Christmas Sweater’ t-shirt and bandana line. Select from cute designs like Merry Woofmas and Deck the Paws in Red, White, Black, Navy & Grey. T-shirts are 100% ring-spun cotton, and the bandanas are the perfect accessory for your pet or your hair.

The best part? When you shop, you are directly supporting local animal rescue and rehoming efforts. All proceeds go towards the care of AWLNSW's shelter animals, ensuring they receive vital care this holiday season.

RRP from $22.50. Order now to guarantee you and your pet are dressed for the holidays! Shop the collection at awlnswshop.com

DoggyTopia have curated the ultimate festive haul, highlighting the best gifts from their collection to guarantee a tail-wagging Christmas for your best mate!

Start the fun with their irresistible Santa Paws Lolly Sack (RRP $26.95). A festive favourite, it’s packed with 24 naturally coloured, Australian-made, NAS (No Added Sugar) yoghurt lollies. With eight sack designs to choose from, they're perfect for advent calendars or daily December treats!

For engaging playtime, the clever pups will love the Christmas Tree Nose Work Toy (RRP $36.95), a snuffle tree that hides treats for endless sniffing joy.

Next, add a cute surprise to your tree with the Pawty Lollies Bauble – Merry Woofmas Edition (RRP $16.95), filled with healthy, colourful lollies. And for merry cuddles, the soft, squeaky Candy Stripe Plush Bone Toy (RRP $23.95) is a playtime must-have!

Shop all DoggyTopia festive favourites now!

Double your gift ideas! Don't miss our full 2025 Christmas Gift Guide for Aussie Dogs where you'll unlock 20 more pawsome gifts and grab exclusive, limited-time discount codes just for our readers!