Latest News

LIFESTYLE

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

LIVING WITH DOGS

BEHAVIOUR AND TRAINING

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

WHAT'S NEW

DOG EVENTS

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK

Latest News



Pet Circle and animal welfare charity PetRescue have launched a new national campaign aimed at rehoming large dogs across Australia.

The “Looking for Love” campaign hopes to find families for more than 100 big dogs by the end of June. 


PetRescue’s data shows that big dogs can take twice as long to find a home when compared to small dogs, with large dogs receiving, on average, 78% fewer adoption enquiries than small dogs
, with over 1,000 large dogs, primarily adults, currently available for adoption through the animal welfare charity.

Patima Tantiprasut, Managing Director and CEO at PetRescue, said it’s heart-breaking to see that big dogs can be waiting almost twice as long to find a home when compared to the average time it takes the smaller ones.

“This campaign encourages people to look beyond appearance alone when considering a pet, and instead, focusing on their individual personality.

It might surprise many that a big friendly giant might actually be the most suitable and compatible companion for their lifestyle and household.”

The initiative will focus on promoting the adoption of large-sized dogs of all ages currently listed on PetRescue, with over 1,000 big dogs still waiting for homes.


Teagan Lever, Head Vet at Pet Circle, said there is a misconception that large dogs are more challenging to care for but that’s really not the case.
“They can be the most loving companions and it’s just a matter of finding a dog whose personality and needs fit your lifestyle and family.”
To lend a paw to adopters, Pet Circle is offering $100 Pet Circle vouchers* to the first 200 people who adopt a large dog through PetRescue between May 13 and June 13, 2025.

Among the dogs awaiting adoption is Chloe (a large Neapolitan Mastiff cross), who has been at the Shoalhaven Animal Shelter for over 650 days waiting to be adopted.

Described as a playful and affectionate companion, she is one of many dogs featured in the campaign.

Chloe is a gentle giant, and she has a bit of a “wiggle butt” when happy! 

Learn more about her in her profile:

“With the help of amazing partners like Pet Circle, we can give them the chance to be seen and adopted,” Tantiprasut said.

The data tells us that big dogs need an even bigger boost to generate more interest. We want to share far and wide that these special ones are looking for love too, and that they have big love to give in return,” she concluded.

Even if you’re not looking to welcome a new furry family member, you can help by sharing their profiles - their lucky new family is out there, they just need your help to find them.

Find out more at www.petrescue.com.au/helping-big-dogs-find-homes




Be a hero who helps raise a hero! 

Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) is in need of weekend volunteers to care for their dogs in training to give their weekday trainers and the dogs a break.

ADA is calling for volunteers who live within 50km of its Orchard Hills (NSW) training centre to care for their dogs in training from Friday afternoon through to Monday morning.
Volunteers will be required to pick up and drop off the dogs.

ADA Head of Marketing and Communications, Natalie Riches, said the volunteer opportunity was well suited to Monday to Friday workers who might not be able to manage a dog during the week, but enjoyed a weekend at home where they could give an assistance dog a rest from training, take them for walks, and lavish them with lots of cuddles.
“With Volunteer Week (May 19-25) almost upon us , now is the perfect time for people to come forward and volunteer their services,” she said.
“Assistance dogs are heroes in their own right - so in keeping with our own theme for Volunteer Week, we are looking for (human) heroes to help raise these (canine) heroes!”

Ms Riches said puppy volunteering was an enriching experience.

“You are helping to raise assistance dogs which will transform people’s lives. 
Our dogs are provided to people living with physical disabilities; children and families living with autism; first responders and defence force personnel living with PTS.

To express your interest in volunteering, or for more information, please visit:
www.assistancedogs.org.au

Things you need to know:

  • There is no minimum commitment – care for a dog whenever it suits you
  • All food, treats, toys, lead, harness and collar provided
  • Support and information from ADA trainers provided
  • Provide a loving home where the dog can rest but also be able to take the dog on outings with you, such as to the park
  • Suitable for apartments, houses, renters (with real estate approval) and owners
  • Best suited to people living within 50km of the National Training Centre in Orchard Hills as pick up and drop off is required from this location
  • Open to houses with other pets pending initial meet and greet evaluation

About Assistance Dogs Australia

Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA)
is a national for-purpose charity dedicated to breeding, training and placing highly skilled and accredited dogs with Australians living with physical disabilities, complex autism, or severe post-traumatic stress (PTS). Currently supporting more than 200 clients nationwide, these life-changing assistance dogs empower connection, promote inclusion and foster independence for Australians with disability.

Led by a belief that cost should never be a barrier to access, Assistance Dogs Australia provides each highly skilled companion dog completely free of charge. With no government funding and each dog costing more than $60,000 to breed and train, the organisation relies on the generosity of individuals, corporate partners and philanthropic groups to continue its vital work.

MEDIA RELEASE, 14th May 2025






Four legs, one mission: ASICS signs a dog to inspire Aussies to move for body and mind

Four legs, one mission; ASICS becomes the first sports brand to sign a dog to its ambassador roster, recognising dogs as the original exercise influencers who motivate millions to move for body and mind.

✔️ Dogs are the ultimate movement motivators, with 65% of owners globally saying their dog is their primary motivator to get out and move, more than family, celebrities and personal trainers.

✔️ Dog owners are 31% more likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines and have State of Mind scores that are 18% higher than non-dog owners.

✔️ Recognising dogs as the original exercise Influencers, ASICS has signed influencer dog “Felix the Samoyed” (@wanderlust_samoyed) as an official brand ambassador to inspire more people to move for body and mind.


✔️ Dog owners can also nominate their own dog for the chance to become an official ASICS Ambassador.

ASICS has today announced a new and unexpected ambassador signing. It's not an athlete, a celebrity, or even a human. It’s a dog called Felix. Why? Because research [1] shows that dogs are the ultimate movement motivators, getting millions to move for body and mind.



New global research highlights the significant role dogs play in motivating us to move and the positive impact this has on our mental wellbeing. 65% of dog owners globally, and 64% of dog owners locally say their dog is their primary movement motivator, more than family, celebrities and personal trainers. 79% of dog owners say they are less stressed and 83% feel happier after moving with their dog.

That’s why ASICS is recognising the role of dogs, including one of the internet’s favourite dogs “Felix the Samoyed”, as the original exercise influencers. 

Felix has been signed as an ASICS Ambassador and will act as the brand’s key ‘spokesperson’ to champion his love of walks, runs, and even zoomies. Watch him in action below!



Professor Brendon Stubbs of King’s College London analysed State of Mind scores [2], an index measuring overall mental wellbeing, and found that dog owners' scores are on average 18% higher than non-dog owners (61/100 vs. 51/100), with 4 in 5 (81%) owners saying moving with their dog improves their mental wellbeing. The study also found that dog owners are 31% more likely to meet physical activity guidelines, averaging 210 minutes of exercise per week.

Professor Brendon Stubbs, a leading researcher in exercise and mental health from King’s College London, said: “ASICS’ latest research reveals just how significantly dogs influence our physical activity levels and overall State of Mind. The research shows dog owners are far more likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines and have a much higher mood. In fact, 84% of dog owners feel a boost in their mood after moving with their dog.”

Delving deeper into how Australian dog owners compared to their global counterparts, most statistics were similar across the board, however Australian dog owners were less likely to say ‘no’ to their dogs, with half saying when their dog stood ready by the door, they always succumbed and took them for walkies.

To honour the extraordinary role that dogs play in motivating us to move for our mental wellbeing, ASICS is inviting people to nominate their own dogs for the chance to become an official ASICS Mind's Best Friend Ambassador

Selected Ambassadors will become ASICS’ very own doggy influencers, sharing content with the world that showcases the power of a simple walk or run to uplift our mood. Each Ambassador selected by the brand will receive an official ASICS Mind’s Best Friend Ambassador kit, including branded gear and accessories and ASICS shoes for its human. 




To nominate your dog, fill out the application at www.asics.com/mindsbestfriend.

ASICS is also calling on all Aussies to share how their dog inspires them to move for body and mind by tagging @asicsaustralia and using the campaign hashtag #MindsBestFriend. For every public post [3] across Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn, ASICS will donate $5 to mental health charity, Black Dog Institute

For full terms and conditions, visit www.asics.com/mindsbestfriend.
“No one motivates us to move for body and mind more than our canine friends. Every day around the world, dogs motivate us to lace up, get out, and move. said Mark Brunton, Managing Director at ASICS Oceania.
Our mission at ASICS is to encourage as many people as possible to feel the uplifting power of movement. It’s why we’re called ASICS, an acronym for the Latin ‘Anima Sana in Corpore Sano’ or ‘Sound Mind in a Sound Body.’ 


We are delighted to have signed Felix as our official Ambassador and share dogs’ infectious love for movement with the world to motivate us all to get out and move for our minds. In Australia, we’re looking forward to supporting Black Dog Institute with this campaign and can’t wait to see if any Australian dogs become one of the chosen ambassadors.”

For more info visit www.asics.com/mindsbestfriend.


References:

1 The Mind’s Best Friend Research was conducted in February 2025 and explored the influence of dogs on motivation to move. 28,000 people were surveyed across 14 markets including Australia, the UK, the US, The Netherlands, France, Germany, Italy, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, China, Japan and Brazil. Each market sample was nationally representative by age and gender (1,000 dog owners and 1,000 non-dog owners in each market).

2 The ASICS State of Mind score is out of 100, calculated based on the accumulative mean scores across ten cognitive and emotional traits – positive, content, relaxed, focused, composed, resilient, confident, alert, calm, energised.

3 Every post shared with #MindsBestFriend before 12 July 2025 will raise $5 for the mental health charity Black Dog Institute. Posts on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn will count (accounts must be public for tracking). Fundraising will be capped at $5k. For more information and tips from Black Dog Institute, scan here.


About ASICS

At ASICS, our five letters have meaning. ASICS is an acronym for the Latin Anima Sana In Corpore Sano or a Sound Mind in a Sound Body. And since our founding in 1949, our purpose has been to help people achieve a Sound Mind in a Sound Body. Right from the very start, our founder, Kihachiro Onitsuka, saw that sport and movement had the power to lift spirits, project positivity, and propel people and whole communities forward. We still believe this.

And we believe our purpose is more relevant today than ever before. Stress and anxiety are at record levels, yet we know sport and movement can have a positive impact. Which is why we remain focused on supporting more people to move for positive mental wellbeing.
Deaf Cattle Dog Navy’s story shared through music and art in Story of a Lonely Dog - Episode 3

After 1,362 days in care, Navy — a deaf blue Cattle Dog — finally has his story shared with the world. Navy is the proud star of Episode 3 of Story of a Lonely Dog, a unique musical series created by Day of the Dog, the brainchild of Melbourne-based artist and internationally acclaimed songwriter, Vanessa.

Story of a Lonely Dog is an educational initiative that brings the true stories of rescue dogs to life through original songs and artwork. After losing her beloved soulmate Finch, Vanessa launched the series to better the lives of rescue dogs across Australia and educate the community one story at a time. 

Each episode features the journey of a real rescue dog, told through heartfelt music and stunning visuals. Navy’s episode also features beautiful artwork by @mvanguardart.

About Navy

Navy came into the care of Hear No Evil – Australian Deaf Dog Rescue at just six months old, surrendered by his owner after already being moved through several homes. 


As a deaf dog, Navy faced significant challenges: limited adoption interest, communication barriers, behavioural issues stemming from misunderstanding and poor treatment during his crucial early development, and the struggle against widespread misconceptions about deaf dogs.

Despite these hurdles, Navy’s playful spirit, love for adventure, and loyal heart have never wavered. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of his foster carer, who has patiently guided him every step of the way, Navy has blossomed into a clever, loving companion. 

He is proof that deaf dogs are just as capable of living full, joyful lives with the right support and understanding.

Navy’s adoption profile: https://bit.ly/NavyBio

About Hear No Evil – Australian Deaf Dog Rescue

Founded in 2014, Hear No Evil is Australia’s first and leading rescue dedicated specifically to deaf and special needs dogs. Deaf dogs like Navy are often overlooked in shelters and pounds, but Hear No Evil works tirelessly to give them the second chances they deserve — rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming them across the country.

A New Way to Tell An Old Story

Not every dog’s story fits neatly into an adoption profile — and Navy is one of those dogs. 

Story of a Lonely Dog gave us a rare and powerful way to share who Navy is. Through music and art, his journey becomes more than words on a page — it becomes something felt. It reaches hearts that might never have seen him otherwise. This series has allowed us to tell Navy’s story not just as a rescue, but as a life worth knowing, loving, and remembering.

To learn more about Navy and watch his episode:



What We Wish for Navy

Our wish is simple: to find Navy his forever family — a home where he will be understood, loved, and truly cherished. He may have waited a long time, but Navy’s story reminds us all that hope is never lost.

"Everyone at Hear No Evil is 100% invested in finding Navy the perfect home.
" said Hear No Evil’s President, Vicki Law.
"We believe his person is as unique as Navy is himself — we just haven’t found that person yet. Navy has waited so long, but we know the right person is out there. He deserves nothing less."

Watch Navy's Story here: https://youtu.be/Ftxh3zhsDA8

Instagram: @dayofthedog_artistofficial | @storyofalonelydog Artist for Navy’s episode: @mvanguardart


Dog Lovers Welcome to Register for Sydney's Steepest Charity Challenge

Registrations are open for Sydney’s steepest charity challenge – the Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn – returning on Sunday 25 May 2025 to Awaba Street, Mosman (Sydney).

Bringing together thousands of Australians to tackle Mosman’s infamous 420-metre incline, the Balmoral Burn is more than just a test of endurance. Every step helps the Humpty Dumpty Foundation provide essential – and often lifesaving – medical equipment and healthcare initiatives to more than 500 hospitals and health services across Australia.

With more than 20 different races on offer, there’s something for everyone – from families and first-timers to elite athletes and even four-legged friends. 





Participants can run solo or alongside their school, sports group or workplace, making the Balmoral Burn a race where passion meets purpose.

Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn Race Highlights:

  • 20+ Race Categories - for all ages and fitness levels from first-timers to fitness fanatics
  • Celebration Run - Wear your whites and get ready for a blast of colour
  • Pet & Owner (11:00am)- because furry friends love a challenge too
  • King & Queen of the Hill - for the fastest of the fast
  • Corporate Relays - where teamwork meets endurance
  • Be In It To Win It - for schools to get involved
  • Run Baby Run - Australia’s only inflatable baby suit race returns
  • Senior Schools - Get your friends together and show your school spirit by dressing up and taking your time up the hill or by battling it out in the Head of the Hill – In It to Win It race.
  • Primary Schools – two timed pocket-rocket races for younger runners on the Hill

This year the babies are back bigger, bouncier and ready to take on Australia’s only inflatable baby suit race - Run Baby Run - which made its official race day debut last year. 

Humpty Dumpty Foundation supporter Tim Akers made history in 2023 as the first-ever participant in an inflatable baby suit to honour his son Archie, who was born three months early at just 900 grams and spent 12 weeks in a Neonatal Care Unit using Humpty Dumpty Foundation donated equipment.


Founded in 2001 by Wallabies great and Humpty Ambassador Phil Kearns AM, this milestone Sydney event has raised over $35 million, proving that when communities come together, big things happen for little lives. Funds raised from the Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn directly help sick children receive the best possible care, when and where they need it most.

Whether you’re taking on the famous steep climb up Awaba Street or cheering from the sidelines, there’s something for everyone. With kids’ entertainment, delicious food, and live activations, the entire Sydney community can enjoy a fantastic day out while helping to ensure every Australian child has access to quality healthcare no matter where they live.

Get Ready to Feel the Burn

Date: Sunday 25 May 2025
Location: Awaba Street, Mosman, NSW
Race Start: from 8:20 AM
Price: from $30
Register Now: www.balmoralburn.com.au


About the Humpty Dumpty Foundation

For over 30 years, the Humpty Dumpty Foundation and its supporters have provided lifesaving medical equipment and healthcare initiatives to help sick babies and children in over 500 hospitals and health services across Australia.


To date, Humpty has raised over $100 million and annually, on average, provides 500 pieces of medical equipment to paediatric wards, neonatal units, and maternity and emergency departments across the country. The Foundation also supports a growing list of special projects and healthcare initiatives to improve health outcomes.

The Humpty Dumpty Foundation is the largest charitable supplier behind State and Territory Governments of children’s medical equipment and health initiatives nationwide. The Foundation works closely with health officials and communities to ensure all states and territories have access to the healthcare and equipment they need to help sick kids in hospital. Almost 50% of all funds raised by Humpty and its supporters go to rural and remote communities.

Humpty’s impact dramatically increases positive health outcomes for sick babies and children by ensuring hospitals have access to state-of-the-art, easy-to-use, and reliable equipment. Not only are the equipment and healthcare initiatives child-specific and appropriate for newborn and paediatric care, but having this equipment significantly reduces separation and anxiety between kids and their loved ones by allowing these sick children to receive the care they need close to home.

Individuals, schools, community and business organisations interested in supporting the Humpty Dumpty Foundation and their local hospital, either by donating a piece of medical equipment, making a general donation, or fundraising can visit www.humpty.org.au or contact the Humpty Dumpty Foundation on 1300 486 789 (1300 HUMPTY).


Now welcoming four-legged guests from 1 May 2025

Park Hyatt Melbourne is delighted to announce the launch of its dog-friendly rooms, inviting guests to experience five-star luxury alongside their canine companions starting 1 May 2025.

Located beside the picturesque Fitzroy Gardens, Park Hyatt Melbourne has long celebrated its connection with dogs — from the legacy of beloved guide dog Mr. Walker to the recent arrival of Charlie, the hotel’s friendly resident pup. 

This new offering continues that tradition, thoughtfully extending the hotel’s signature hospitality to four-legged guests.

Each dog-friendly stay includes:

✔️ A plush dog bed

✔️ Food and water bowls

✔️ A soft toy and welcome treat

✔️ In-room pet dining menu

✔️ Access to designated pet relief mats

Designed for comfort and convenience, these inclusions ensure both pups and their people feel right at home — whether enjoying strolls through the gardens or sun-drenched moments in the room.

A limited number of Dog-Friendly Standard Rooms are available and can be booked directly via the hotel’s official website from 1 May 2025 onwards.

While dogs of various sizes are welcome, some breed restrictions apply in accordance with Victorian government regulations. All guests with pets are required to observe the hotel’s pet policy, which outlines a set of guidelines to ensure a respectful and safe environment for all. 

For more details, please refer to our Dog-Friendly Stay FAQ here

“Our hotel has always celebrated the meaningful connections between people and their pets,” said Oliver Kahf, General Manager of Park Hyatt Melbourne. 
“We’re proud to offer a stay where elegance and comfort extend to every family member — furry ones included.”
Guests may even be lucky enough to meet Charlie, the hotel’s resident pup, often spotted in the lobby offering a wag and a warm welcome.


MEDIA RELEASE, Melbourne, Australia – May 2025

Related Stories:

Park Hyatt Melbourne welcomes new canine ambassador Charlie


As paws and feet hit the pavement later this month for the RSPCA’s iconic Million Paws Walk, we’re reminded of its mission: to rally support for thousands of dogs in shelters across Australia. Last financial year alone, nearly 17,500 dogs found refuge with the RSPCA*, and many Aussies stepped up to give them a second chance at life – but this isn’t a decision to be taken lightly.

Best-selling author, founder of The Canine Perspective and canine behaviourist Sarah Rutten said adopting a rescue dog can be a life-changing experience and for some people, this journey is a perfect fit; but for others, it may be overwhelming and that’s okay.

“Past neglect and abandonment can weigh heavily on rescue dogs – sometimes manifesting as reactivity, anxiety and unique needs that may not be the right fit for every home,” Sarah said. 
“Even puppies, while generally quicker to adapt if re-homed between the ages of seven and nine weeks, may still carry unseen trauma.”
“As rewarding as adopting from a shelter can be, it’s crucial that your chosen pup suits your lifestyle, household and experience level as their guardian. Before adopting, you should ask yourself: ‘is a rescue dog the right fit for me?’”




Sarah said prospective rescue dog parents should consider:

✔️ Do I have the time and emotional resources to build trust with a dog who may have trauma, anxiety or behavioural quirks?

✔️ Am I open to working with a trainer or canine behaviour expert if needed?

✔️ Is my household ready to support the dog's needs, even if progress is slow?

For those ready for the journey, Sarah said the foundation of a strong, lasting relationship with a rescue dog lies in patience, structure and trust.

4 Tips for Helping Your New Rescue Dog Adjust:

#1. Patience is Key

Trust cannot be rushed – especially for dogs with a traumatic past.

“Many pups from shelters can arrive at their new homes in a shut-down and withdrawn state,” Sarah said. “Once they start to relax in their new environment, cheeky, boundary-pushing behaviours may emerge – this is actually very mentally healthy and a sign that their nervous system is starting to settle.

“Be patient and make sure you use lots of treats and praise to reinforce the behaviours that you’d like to see repeated.”

#2. Build a Bond Before Training




Before expecting perfect recall or a great handshake, focus on strengthening the relationship with simple, positive interactions like snuggling calmly together on the couch.

“There's a reason why many new dog parents struggle to get their rescue dogs to come when called," Sarah said. "It's not the dog’s fault – it's most likely that the human-dog bond hasn’t had a chance to fully form yet."

#3. Follow a Structured Routine

A clear, predictable daily routine provides a sense of stability for dogs coming from uncertain backgrounds.

Our rescue pup Porthos decided from Day 1
that the safest space was under our desk!
“Dogs like routine – they feel safe and comforted when they know what to expect,” Sarah said. “If possible, try feeding and walking them at the same time each day to build that sense of security.”

#4. Create a Safe Space

It’s important for every dog to have a safe space to retreat and decompress, but even more so for rescue pups.

“Whether it’s a crate tucked away from the main living areas or a comfy corner, the goal is to create a calm, stress-free spot for your dog to rest without being disturbed,” Sarah said.

Choosing the Right Path For You and Your Future Pup

Sarah said rescue dogs can have the potential to thrive, but they need adopters who are willing to be patient enough to let them heal, one step at a time.




“There is no shame in thoughtfully choosing a dog from a registered, reputable breeder if that’s the best match for your situation instead,” she said.

"What matters most is making a compassionate, honest choice that will help ensure that every dog, whether rescued or purchased, finds a loving, stable, and lifelong home.”

For more expert dog behaviour and training advice, visit www.thecanineperspective.com.au


* RSPCA (2025), Animal Outcomes From Our Shelters: Care and Adoption Centres 2023-24, https://rspca.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/public/Uploads/annual-statistics/RSPCA-Australia-Annual-Statistics-2023-2024.pdf

About The Canine Perspective:

The Canine Perspective founder Sarah Rutten is not just another dog trainer – she's a thought leader pushing for real change in how humans and dogs understand. 

With a no-nonsense, science-backed approach, she's on a mission to educate dog owners, challenge outdated training myths, and advocate for ethical, force-free methods that strengthen the human-dog bond.

Follow Sarah Rutten and the Canine Perspective:

MEDIA RELEASE, 13th May 2025

Related Stories:

The first 14 days with your puppy



Dogs vs rats: Rottweiler rescue battles rodent surge with high-tech traps

A surge in rodent numbers has left New South Wales charity Iron Dog Rescue fighting a new kind of battle — not for its dogs, but against rats and mice.

The charity, which cares for and rehomes dozens of Rottweilers each year, has seen vital equipment, including freezers and vehicles, damaged by rodents. But a high-tech solution — including smart, smartphone-connected mousetraps — is helping turn the tide in the dog-versus-rat war.

Sue Ebert started
Iron Dog Rescue in 2018 to give Rottweilers a second chance. Based in Wagga Wagga, the rescue is one of the few in Australia solely dedicated to the often misunderstood breed. 

It acts as a contact and liaison point for people wanting to rehome or adopt the dogs. They currently care for 45 Rottweilers and rely on donations to operate, but a rodent problem has been literally chewing through their equipment and funds.

“Our property backs onto a creek, and it's an ideal spot for the rats and mice who are also attracted to us due to the number of animals we have onsite and the amount of food we store.

“They’ve caused serious damage, and cost us precious funds - we’ve had to destroy food after they chewed through our freezer, and rats got into the air conditioning system in our rescue transport vehicle and died inside, causing us massive headaches.”

She says the risks go beyond property damage.

“In the past, we’ve used bait to try to control the situation, but that poses safety risks for our dogs and local wildlife. We’re also constantly worried about baited rodents dying and contaminating our water supply, it’s felt like a lose-lose situation,” she says.

To combat their rodent problem, Iron Dog Rescue has recently partnered with New Zealand-based Goodnature, which has eliminated more than 22 million pests worldwide. 

In late 2024, Goodnature launched the world’s smartest mousetrap —a device that kills mice instantly without poison and sends a notification to the user’s phone when a kill occurs.

Since placing the rat and mouse traps around the property, Sue says the impact has been immediate.


“In the first two days, we killed 17 mice - including one so big it got stuck in the trap. Since then, there have been minimal sightings - it’s been a huge relief knowing that our dogs and local wildlife aren’t at risk of eating any potentially toxic baited kills,” she says.

Goodnature CEO Dave Shoemack says Australia is currently in peak breeding season, and proactive trapping is the best way to control rat and mouse numbers before winter sets in.

“Just five years ago, we saw what happens when things get out of hand, with billions of mice overrunning NSW farms and homes, damaging property and threatening animal and human health. In some areas, farmers reported catching hundreds of mice per night, with one property alone seeing over 100,000 mice killed. Tackling the problem early helps prevent another plague”.


Removing toxins from pest control has been a driving force behind Goodnature’s work over the past 20 years, with the company now helping communities manage pests in more than 60 countries.

“We believe our world would be better off with less pests and toxins, and we want to empower people to solve their pest control problems in humane, smart and sustainable ways. Climate change is already giving mice an extra breeding cycle each year, and rising temperatures will only speed up their population growth,” says Shoemack.

“The pest control industry has relied on the same old solutions for too long.. Eliminating pests without poison is better for our four-legged friends, people, and the economy”.

Iron Dog Rescue provides a safe haven for Rottweilers and offers adoption and education services across the Wagga Wagga region. 

To support their work or make a donation, visit Animal rescue | Iron Dog Rescue | Bethungra.

You can follow Iron Dog Rescue on Facebook: www.facebook.com/irondogrescue

About Goodnature

Goodnature is the only B Corp certified pest control company in the world. Established in Wellington in 2005, it believes the world is better off with less pests and less toxins and wants to kill 100 million pests by 2030. It designs and manufactures traps for both inside and outside the home that eliminate pests, including mice, rats and stoats, without toxins. Currently celebrating 20 years of innovation, it released the Goodnature Mouse Trap in 2024 - its first product designed for inside the home. This latest innovation has won multiple awards, including the 2025 iF Design Awards, and was recognised as one of the world’s most innovative consumer and household goods products in the Fast Company Most Innovative Companies List of 2025.

MEDIA RELEASE, Wagga Wagga, 12 May 2025 


The Dog-Go Bag: 3L Of Water & 4 Ways To Wear!

Designed for big, active dogs and busy humans - hydration on hand.

DGO CO launched its debut product, the Dog-Go Bag, on Kickstarter on May 1 - a clean, travel-friendly water bag designed to make it easy for humans to carry enough water for their dogs - especially large or active ones.

Frustrated by small pet water bottles and overbuilt travel gear, founder Emily Williams, set out to design something better:

“I wanted something I could use every day - something that held enough water for my dogs but fit into my busy schedule. It had to be easy, practical, and suit various situations throughout the day.” says Emily.

The Dog-Go Bag is a hydration-first solution for large and active dogs, holding ample water for long walks, hikes, or weekend outings. Lightweight, minimalist, and versatile in how it can be worn or carried, the bag seamlessly integrates into a dog owner’s everyday routine - whether you’re at the park or down the beach.

The bag is launching exclusively on Kickstarter and is available in limited quantities during the campaign.




Key Features:

✔️ Carries 3 litres of water; particularly suited to big or active dogs.

✔️ Wear it four different ways (short handle, long shoulder, cross body, backpack) - lightweight, versatile design.

✔️ Built for busy lifestyles: one bag to grab and go.




About Emily Williams – Founder, DGO CO

Based in Western Australia, Emily Williams is a full-time dog mum to Loui and Violet, and founder of DGO CO. She created the Dog-Go Bag out of a real need - frustrated by the lack of pragmatic, adequate hydration options for active dogs. Designed to provide a useful solution, the Dog-Go Bag is her answer to keeping things simple, functional, and ready to grab-and-go.

“My dogs are medium-sized and active — they drink an entire small travel bottle within seconds during a run (when they’re not fighting to fit both their heads in it). I couldn’t find a bag that held enough water without looking or feeling like bulky gear. So I made one you can take wherever you are going.”





DGO CO
is keen to explore the world; creating products that are functional, beautifully simple, and made to seamlessly integrate into real life.

For more details and to back this project, visit their Kickstarter Campaign page here: www.kickstarter.com

You can follow DGO CO @thedgoco on Instagram

MEDIA RELEASE - Perth, May 2025

DOG HERO STORIES

WALKS

DOG SPORTS

REVIEWS