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You may have seen Dani Stevens on A Current Affair this month with a public plea for help after her pre-alert seizure assistance dog Nina was initially knocked back for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding.

Dani has suffered from refractory epilepsy (uncontrolled seizures) for the past 13 years and relies on her seizure alert dog to be able to live independently.

After battling government red tape for months - her family initially submitted their paperwork on 6th June 2024 - there was a successful outcome with the funding for Nina finally approved on 5th February 2025, in the wake of public support!

She shares her story with us...

"Living with life-threatening, frequent seizures slowly took away my freedom and independence. I stopped university, work, sport, and could no longer access the community independently. I always had to have someone within arm's reach, ready to try catch me when I would have a seizure. I was constantly at the ER with injuries from seizures. My family and I were constantly on edge waiting for the next seizure. 

Thankfully, in 2017 I got a seizure alert assistance dog named Baloo. For seven years she has pre-alerted to thousands of seizures, anaphylactic reactions and Todd's palsy seizures. Baloo was fundraised for by the CrossFit and Ipswich community and trained through Dogs for Life - previously CSTDA.

She used her super sensitive nose to detect the chemical changes that occur in the body prior to an oncoming seizure. Once she smelt this chemical change she would bark to alert. She has made a huge difference not only to my life but my family's life too.






Having an assistance dog has given me my life and independence back, provided unwavering support and companionship, and has prevented so many injuries by alerting prior to a seizure three to five minutes prior to a fit, allowing me time to sit down in a safe place and call for help. 

Without Baloo I would not be writing this right now. I have required CPR a number of times after seizures. If Baloo hadn't alerted by barking, my family would not have been able to assist and perform life-saving CPR.
She has literally saved my life multiple times.
Having an assistance dog has also allowed me to access the community again, volunteering, doing casual work. She has given me my freedom, independence and safety back, and allowed me to now live in a self-contained granny flat.

My assistance dog Baloo has been featured on TV, radio, newspapers and magazines where she has raised much needed awareness of the amazing work medical alert dogs do. 

Dani Stevens with medical alert dog, Baloo, winner of the Australian Dog of the Year 2023
Photo Credit: Puppy Tales Photography



She has won the Puppy Tales 2023 Australian Dog of the Year, Oz Top Dog with a Job and in 2024 she was a runner-up in the "Hardest Working Dog" category in The Dog Down Under TV show (Channel 10).

Baloo was funded for maintenance and training costs under NDIS and was a recognised assistance dog for the past 5 years. 
But turning ten, Baloo had to transition into retirement. 
Unfortunately - because Baloo would continue to try to keep working over a new assistance dog - it was not possible to keep her. As she has alerted her whole life to seizures, this isn't something she could just stop doing.

It was a heart-breaking decision to have to make but seeing her relaxed, living her best retired life with her new family fills my heart with joy. She deserves the best retirement! She has gone to a friend so I can visit her regularly. She does a bit of therapy dog work and is enjoying all the pats and cuddles.

Relief for Dani Stevens and her mum after NDIS
funding for new medical alert dog Nina was approved
In June 2024, we started the process of applying to NDIS for a replacement assistance dog and ended up with quite the battle on our hands.

After thousands of dollars spent on reports requested by NDIS, they initially 
declined a one-off payment for the purchase of a replacement assistance dog for $47,400. 

Instead, they would have rather paid $520,400 yearly for 24/7 support worker care, leaving me with no freedom or independence, and at higher risk of injury. 

I would have been back to having someone follow me around to each room, not being able to cook safely, having someone sit outside the bathroom when I'm showering, having someone watch me sleep, someone always within an arms reach. 

My parents and brother currently provide full-time (minus 47 hours support work per month) informal unpaid care for myself and this would not be sustainable for them without an assistance dog. 

It would also be risking my safety as a pre-alert seizure assistance dog currently is the only "piece of technology" that can alert a person prior to a seizure.

On 26th September 2024, we welcomed Nina, a one-year old black Labrador, into our homes.

I immediately started training with her and she has now passed her public access test (PAT) with Dogs for Life. In this short time Nina has already started alerting prior to seizures. 

She has already taken over Baloo's role successfully; we are now just fine tuning all the training and alerting. Nina is alerting prior to seizures, even waking me in the middle of the night prior to them. We are so proud of how far she has come in just a short time. 

A heartfelt thank you to A Current Affair, our federal member and the community for all your support, encouragement and kind words! We truly believe this has lead to the successful outcome!

My family and I are extremely relieved to know that I can continue to live safely, independently and maintain my freedom with Assistance Dog Nina by my side.

I hope that by sharing my story, this highlights the important work assistance dogs do, some of the issues participants face with NDIS, and also raises much needed awareness of how dangerous refractory epilepsy is... and how life saving assistance dogs are."

Follow the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BalooTheServiceDog

To learn more about Dogs for Life, visit: 
www.dogsforlife.com.au

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New interactive digital risk checker tool helps pet owners assess the risks of parasites

NexGard SPECTRA® has launched a new free, interactive digital risk checker tool called PetGard Pro to help dog and cat owners assess the risks of parasites to their pets.

The tool, developed in consultation with Dr Vito Colella, PhD Parasitology at the University of Melbourne, has been created to grow awareness amongst pet owners that some parasites can pass from pets to people. 

The brand believes that dogs and cats should be free to explore without the risk associated with parasites.

While using the tool, pet owners will have access to the most up-to-date understanding of parasite risk factors and control recommendations.

The risk factors are related to each pet, such as their sex, age, location, lifestyle and behaviour. It analyses the risk factors and offers a personal risk assessment for the most important parasites. It is fun and easy to use by completing a short questionnaire which takes only a few minutes.

Results summary using the PetGard Pro Parasite Risk checker tool for our Malinois Porthos




The PetGard Pro tool then delivers a personalised report for the pet in a summary format and a detailed, downloadable PDF providing educational insights into parasite risks and how pet owners can best protect their pet and the whole family.

To celebrate the launch, NexGard SPECTRA® is inviting dog owners to a FREE parasite check and chat with SASH - Small Animal Specialist Hospital vets.

Pet owners will be able to:




✔️ Enjoy a one-on-one parasite check and chat with a SASH vet.

✔️ Learn about PetGard Pro and how it provides a personalised risk assessment based on factors such as a pet’s sex, age, location, lifestyle, and behaviour.

✔️ Receive a personalised summary report and a detailed PDF with insights on parasite risks and prevention.

✔️ Receive vet advice including why monthly deworming of pets is important to reduce the risk of parasite transmission from pets to people.

When: Saturday 15th March 2025, from 10:00am - 1:00pm.

Where: Sydney Park, 416 Sydney Park Road, Alexandria, NexGard SPECTRA and SASH marquee.

Learn more about NexGard Spectra's PetGard Pro tool: nexgard.com.au/petgardpro

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th February 2025


Adopt Love this Valentine's Day!

Join Greyhounds As Pets for their Annual Valentine's Greyhound Adoption Event, where over 30 adorable Greyhounds will be waiting to meet their perfect love match.
Could it be you?

✔️ Be matched with a Greyhound by their experts

Meet some of the special Greyhounds confirmed so far below.

Register herewww.gapnsw.com.au for the Dogalogue to receive a guide to the Greyhounds attending.




✔️ Bring the kids: face painting, jumping castle, Mr Whippy.

✔️ Bring your pet pooches along to meet and greet their new Greyhound sibling! 
(Please let the staff know upon arrival that you have your dog/s with you, and they will facilitate a meet-up).

✔️ Meet the Team from Sydney Animal Hospital at this event!

- Free Dental Checks: Expert advice to keep your pet's teeth healthy.

- Giveaways & Freebies: Because every good dog deserves a treat!

Why Choose a Greyhound?



  • Rarely bark (they won't annoy neighbours, especially if you're living in an apartment )
  • Affectionate and loving
  • Minimal shedding
  • No doggy smell
  • Can enjoy the company of other pets
  • Can be wonderful companions for both little and big kids
  • Calm and gentle demeanour
  • Improve your social life! Adopting a Greyhound connects you with a supportive community of enthusiasts across Sydney and NSW.
  • Keeps you active with daily walks

Event Highlights:

✔️ Meet Greyhounds available for adoption and discover their gentle, affectionate nature.

✔️ Speak with GAP experts and volunteers about the adoption process.

✔️ Enjoy special adoption rates during the event:
  • Standard Adoption Fee: $150 (normally $250)
  • Sweet Seniors (7+ years): $75 (normally $150)

Additional Information
  • Submit an adoption application form beforehand to streamline the process.
  • Family-friendly event; well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
  • Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday 15th February 2025, from 
10:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Where: Woodstock Community Centre, 22 Church Street, Burwood, NSW, 2314

Find the event page details here: www.gapnsw.com.au

GAP NSW is also holding another two other Greyhound Adoption Day Events in regional NSW: Albury and Bathurst.











 

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th February 2025


Seeing Eye Dogs teams up with Swysh to deliver PAW-sonalised Valentine's messages from Seeing Eye Dogs pups

This Valentine’s Day, Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs is teaming up with personalised video platform, Swysh, to spread the puppy love through personalised video messages from Seeing Eye Dogs puppies.

Launching tomorrow February 12th at 9am, users can send their video requests to the friendly team at Seeing Eye Dogs, who will then respond back with a curated puppy video.

Seeing Eye Dog puppy Pringle is standing by, ready for your video requests!






Perfect for those whose partner is a dog lover, singles without a Valentine, Galentine, or for those who have forgotten to get their significant other a gift, each video aims to inject some fun and joy into someone’s day.

What’s more is that a portion of the proceeds from each video will go directly back to Seeing Eye Dogs and its puppy development program.

“We rely on the generosity of the public and their donations to keep our puppy development program going. Proceeds will go towards things like medical expenses and treatment, food and training equipment,” said Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs manager for puppy development Jane Bradley.




Seeing Eye Dog puppies are given the best care and training so that they can one day become a working Seeing Eye Dog and provide life-changing support to someone who is blind or has low vision.

“Through this fun initiative we also hope to encourage anyone who is able and willing to consider becoming a volunteer puppy carer. Our puppy carers play a vital role in the social development of a Seeing Eye Dogs puppy from when they are 8-10 weeks old to when they go in for formal training at 12 months of age.”

When: Requests can be made between 9am February 12th and 11am February 14th.

Where: Head to heyswysh.com/products/vision-australia

What: Personalised videos from Seeing Eye Dogs puppies. Each video will cost $50, with a portion of the proceeds going back to Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs.

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th February 2025

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Warning to pet owners: sand ingestion in dogs can lead to life-threatening complications

As temperatures rise and dog owners flock to beaches and sandy parks with their furry companions, Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) urges pet parents to be aware of the dangers of sand ingestion in dogs. What may seem like harmless play or accidental swallowing can quickly become a severe medical emergency.

Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia, warns that many pet owners are unaware of the risks associated with dogs consuming sand.
“Dogs can ingest sand while fetching balls, digging, or even licking sand-coated toys”



“Unfortunately, this can lead to serious health concerns, including intestinal blockages and a dangerous condition known as sand impaction”, Crighton says.

Case Study: Teddy’s Story

Rebecca de Gier from Melbourne learned first-hand how dangerous sand ingestion can be when her beloved dog, Teddy, suffered a serious health scare during a family road trip to Queensland.

“Teddy was his usual happy and playful self before he got sick,” Rebecca recalls. “We were playing fetch on the beach with a soft toy, and I had no idea that he was accidentally swallowing sand.”


Shortly after returning home, Rebecca noticed that Teddy wasn’t himself. “He seemed uncomfortable, restless, and kept positioning himself in a downward dog stretch. I called my Melbourne vet, and they suggested he might have a sore stomach. I quickly rang local vets, and they directed me to the Animal Emergency Centre on the Gold Coast.”

The veterinary team confirmed via X-ray that Teddy had significant sand impaction, which can cause dangerous blockages, sometimes requiring surgery. 

His symptoms included restlessness, lethargy, a decreased appetite, and an inability to get comfortable. Fortunately, Teddy was treated with analgesia and IV fluids to help the sand pass naturally. 

He required an overnight stay, and by the next morning, X-rays showed the sand had moved through his intestines. He was sent home with a week’s worth of probiotics to protect his stomach lining.


“Teddy is doing fantastic now; he is back to his normal self, which is a relief,” Rebecca shares. “The recovery turnaround was quite quick. I am so grateful he survived.”

Rebecca urges fellow pet owners to be mindful when taking their dogs to the beach.

My advice is don't play fetch with your dog on the sand! Do your research when you're going to new places or interstate. There are things you wouldn't even consider if you're not usually around beaches! Consider things depending on climate, such as hot pathways, hot sand, ticks and parasites. 

Always trust your gut instincts too. I was reassured I did the right thing by taking him to the vet. Also, make sure you have pet insurance. The out-of-pocket payment if I didn't would have been huge. The sand ingestion was completely accidental, he ingested it when collecting the soft toy, I didn't even consider this as a potential cause for concern.”

Signs & Symptoms of Sand Impaction

Dog owners should be on high alert for symptoms that may indicate their pet is suffering from sand ingestion. These include:

✔️ Vomiting or dry retching

✔️ Lethargy

✔️ Loss of appetite

✔️ Abdominal pain or swelling

✔️ Straining to defecate or inability to pass stool

✔️ Diarrhoea containing sand particles

If a dog is displaying any of these symptoms after a beach trip, immediate veterinary attention is recommended.

When a dog ingests excessive amounts of sand, it can accumulate and create a dangerous blockage in their digestive system.

“Wet sand becomes dense and heavy, causing the tiny grains to stick together as they move through the intestines,” Crighton warns. “Over time, this build-up can make it challenging for your dog to pass the sand naturally, leading to discomfort and potential medical complications.”

How to Prevent Sand Ingestion

PIA offers pet owners the following tips to help reduce the risk of sand ingestion:




1. Use Elevated Bowls & Mats – Providing food and water on a raised surface or a blanket can prevent dogs from consuming sand while eating or drinking.

2. Choose the Right Toys – Opt for solid, easy-to-clean toys that don’t accumulate sand and avoid throwing balls that pick up excessive amounts of it.

3. Encourage Hydration – Ensuring your pet drinks plenty of fresh water can reduce the likelihood of them licking sand-coated surfaces.

4. Supervised Play – Keep an eye on dogs when they dig or play in sandy areas to minimize excessive exposure.

5. Rinse Off After Play – Rinsing your pet’s mouth and paws after a beach visit can help remove residual sand.

The Role of Pet Insurance in Emergency Situations

Treatment for sand impaction can be costly, often requiring imaging, IV fluids, and in severe cases, surgery. Having comprehensive pet insurance can help alleviate financial stress in unexpected situations.

“No one expects their fun day at the beach to turn into an emergency vet visit,” Crighton says. “That’s why being prepared and educated on the risks is so important for pet owners.”

For more information on pet health and safety, visit Pet Insurance Australia’s website.


About Pet Insurance Australia:

Pet Insurance Australia is a family-owned and operated business dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality pet insurance to Australian pet owners. With a strong focus on pet health and welfare, PIA works to educate pet parents on the best practices to keep their furry companions safe and healthy.

MEDIA RELEASE, 10th February 2025

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Showing that we really see our pets as part of the family, 43% of people now plan to buy Valentine's gifts for their pets compared to 42% who plan to buy them for their significant others! If you left it to the last minute, here's what the Australian Dog Lover team loved for this Valentine's Day 2025!

From boutique dog biscuits and healthy treats, thoughtfully crafted dog gift boxes and themed accessories to adorable plush toys not to forget personalised gifts for dog lovers, you're bound to find something to delight your pooch or partner!




Is that puppy love in the air, or is it just us? Golden BARKery’s all-natural treats and pupcakes make the perfect gift for your Valentine doggy date!

Start the party early with their 14 Days of Love Celebration Box - delicious Honey & Vanilla homemade dog biscuits in 14 gorgeous Valentine's Day shapes to get every dog's heart racing.

The Love Dog Bone Biscuit and Pawfect Valentine Dog Cookie (3 colour options) are made with dog friendly icing with colours derived from fruits and vegetables.

Splurge on their Be My Pawlentine Bundle! Treat the one you love this Valentine's Day to this drool-worthy collection of handcrafted dog treats including a personalised message.

RRP: from $17.00-$42.00 from goldenbarkery.com.au






Looking for a way to spoil your fur baby this Valentine’s Day or wanting to send the perfect gift? Badger & Me have the perfect curated gift boxes for your pooch or kitty!

Our top pick is the XOXO - Valentine's Dog Gift Box featuring the adorable XO Rex plush dog toy from Fringe Studio and Huxley & Kent Wet Kisses Candy Heart plus The Golden Bone Bakery Immune Booster Treats for Dogs (Blueberry & Beetroot, 280g).

Or you could choose the Hugs & Kisses or Heart Breaker Dog Gift Boxes

Still can’t find the perfect mix? Badger and Me’s popular “Build your own box” option allows you to curate your own box catered to your dogs’ specific needs whilst also fitting your desired budget.

All dog gift boxes come beautifully wrapped with ribbon, creating the perfect gift! 

On sale now! From $57.99 at www.badgerandme.com.au

This Valentine’s Day, express your love in the most paw-some way possible with a Let's Pawty Be Mine Valentine Dog Gift Box.

Packed with thoughtful treats, adorable toys, and a stylish accessory, this exclusive hamper is the ultimate gift to celebrate the unbreakable bond between you and your furry best friend. Plus it is personalised with your dog's name. Every detail has been curated to fill your dog's day with joy, love, and endless tail wags.

Toys like the Zippy Paws Hearts Burrow Toy and Valentine Caterpillar encourage mental stimulation and active play, keeping your dog entertained and happy whilst you're at work.

The Be Mine Dog Bandana is a perfect accessory for Valentine’s Day photos and outings; it slip onto your dog’s collar for comfortable easy wearing. These keepsake gift boxes are packed with toys and treats and are beautifully presented with ribbon and personalised with your dog’s name.

RRP: $109.00Find your perfect match at letspawty.au




This Valentine's Day, why not treat your pet to something new and a little different? Kiwi pet wellness brand Petervescence has recently launched Treat-A-Balls in Australia.

Crafted only for dogs, these premium dog treats are made with human-grade, plant-based ingredients.

They come in three flavours: Cranberry, Pumpkin & AppleMango, Chia & Spinach and Peanut Butter, Blueberry & Banana. They are designed to support energy, recovery, and overall pet health.

Treat-A-Balls are non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars, fillers, additives, and preservatives. Additionally, the treats are packaged in recyclable materials.

RRP: $12.99 (18-ball pack) from pet retailers nationwide and online at www.petso.com.au




LOVEPUP’s new range for Valentine’s Day will be sure to get your dog’s tail wagging!

Their Valentine's Day Collection features 4 reversible tie up bandanas with a loveable quote and stylish hearts fabric on the reverse that can be worn all year round plus a new range edged with white frill. Also available are their signature True Love 
Bow TieSailor Bow and Neck Tie.

Available in sizes XS - XL and they also take custom sizing and design requests. All their adorable dog accessories are handmade in Melbourne using quality fabrics that are soft and durable.


LOVEPUP proudly gives back to animals in need, with a portion of every sale donated to Second Chance Animal Rescue.

RRP: $16.00-$24.00 at www.lovepup.com.au 




This is something to wag your tail about. Inside this pawfectly adorned tin, you’ll find the flavours T2 are known and loved for. 

From breakfast teas and spiced delights to green teas and fruity brews, there’s something for every fur parent!

Enjoy 20 teabags in individual sachets – Chai, China Jasmine, Detox, Earl Grey, English Breakfast, French Earl Grey, Gorgeous Geisha, Green Rose, Just Chamomile, Just Peppermint, Lemongrass & Ginger, Melbourne Breakfast, Morning Sunshine, New York Breakfast, Packs A Peach, Pumping Pomegranate, Sencha, Sleep Tight, Southern Sunrise and Tummy Tea.

Packed into a limited-edition tin, perfect for storing your tea, it makes the perfect gift for a dog lover (or better, for yourself!).

From fruits to spices, tea leaves to herb bushes, 100% of T2 tea is sustainably sourced.

RRP: $35.00 in T2 stores or online at www.t2tea.com 







This Pink Mix Dog Cookies Gift Box from Huds & Toke is the perfect special gift to let your pooch know how much you love them.

Why not pair this with an adorable Plush & Hairy Love Bug Toy, designed to bring joy and endless fun? Hidden inside the love bug is a squeaky ball, adding an exciting twist to playtime.

Celebrate the season of love with this adorable set of Valentine-themed Plush Balls dog toys! Perfectly crafted to delight your furry companion, this set includes 6 charming plush balls in romantic hues: 2 white, 2 red, and 2 pink.

This cute Coffee Mug (White or Red) featuring "My Dog is My Valentine" on both sides of the mug will brighten up the day of any dog lover!

RRP: $10.95 - $39.95. Find these and many more ideas at poochluxury.com.au








Show your love to your bestie with dogthings' Be My Valentine Rope Toy, perfect for fetch, tug and chew!

Spoil your dog even more with the Zippy Paws Box of Chocolates interactive dog toy, featuring 3 small squeaky dog safe chocolate toys!

For Instagram-worthy snaps you can’t go past the Fringe Studio’s Champagne & Strawberries Toy Set (suited to small-medium dogs): it comes with a plush champagne bottle and two chocolate strawberry plush toys (all with squeakers).

The Fringe Studio’s PetShop Sweet Talk Hide & Seek Plush Dog Toy Set features a Sweet Talk candy “bag” with two squeaky plush heart toys, which include one squeaker each.

RRP: $10 - $28.99. Find your dog’s new favourite enrichment toy at dogthings.co



Pawfect2u brings joy and laughter to pet lovers with personalised pet portraits that transform your furry friends into regal, whimsical, or fun characters. 

Whether you want to see your pet as a king, a queen, or a playful adventurer, each piece is carefully crafted to capture their personality in a unique, memorable way.

They also offer classical styles like modern pet portraits and watercolour designs, giving pet lovers even more options to find the perfect artistic representation of their beloved companions.

All portraits are printed on high-quality canvases, ensuring durability and vivid detail. With a wide range of styles to choose from, you’ll find the perfect way to celebrate your beloved pets or surprise a fellow animal lover.

Enjoy an introductory offer of 20% off RRP, with basic canvases starting at just $71.96. 
Visit pawfect2u.com and make your pet the star they were born to be!

Enter our Giveaway 
before February 9 to Win 1 of 3 Pawfect2u Custom Pet Portraits




Introducing the DOGUE Slow Feeder Flower – say goodbye to rapid eating habits and hello to a healthier, happier pup.

Engage their mind and satisfy their appetite with this effective slow feeder puzzle! 

Available in four pastel hues and made from durable, pet-safe silicone with a smart suction cup base to ensure stability during feeding sessions.

Simply spread your pets favourite food (yogurt, peanut butter, canned fish, veggies, dog treats) across the mat. You can also create a cooling summer treat by spreading with yoghurt, fruits and peanut butter and popping in the freezer – perfect for keeping your pup occupied during hot weather.

RRP: $24.99 at www.dogue.com.au

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