Movie magic under the stars: iconic Moonlight Cinema returns for a blockbuster summer

Tickets now on sale with full program at moonlight.com.au

There is no better place for audiences to get their movie fix this summer than under the starry night sky. Moonlight Cinema is back with a stellar line-up of some of 2024’s best releases. Moonlight sessions will run until March 2025 (dates and locations available below) across five Australian locations.

Moonlight Cinema brings the ultimate outdoor cinema experience to some of Australia’s most beautiful locations. Audiences can enjoy their favourite films at Adelaide’s Botanic Park, Brisbane’s Roma St Parklands, Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens, Perth’s Kings Park & Botanic Garden and Sydney’s Centennial Parklands.

While enjoying these picturesque parks, attendees might like to indulge in Singapore Airline’s Gold Grass, for waiter service and prime views. Across Australia, viewers will also have a chance to enjoy the Mount Franklin Lightly Sparkling Platinum experiences, which include delicious and refreshing Mount Franklin Lightly Sparkling to experience, a food package and personal waiter service direct to deluxe double bean bags.

Moviegoers will be treated to a combination of classics and this year’s box office smashes. 2024 releases include Wicked, Gladiator II, Heretic, Challengers, It Ends with Us, Deadpool and Wolverine, The Fall Guy, The Substance, Twisters and Kneecap.

Fans of superstar performer Robbie Williams can catch his biopic Better Man, on its Boxing Day release. Iconic films Mean Girls (2004) and Barbie are also featured in the line-up.

Families can also enjoy screenings of Inside Out 2 and a special preview screening of Paddington in Peru.

“With a big summer of movies on the horizon in some of Australia’s most beautiful parklands and gardens, Moonlight Cinema is back to deliver the perfect cinematic backdrop for an unforgettable night out”, says John Boero, General Manager of Entertainment Operations, EVT. "Moonlight Cinema has become an iconic summer tradition, and we’re excited to bring audiences our biggest season yet."

What’s On At Moonlight

There’s so much to enjoy at Moonlight Cinema, with carefully curated experiences available for the ultimate summer atmosphere. Enjoy the balmy summer nights with on-site activations, product samples, kitchens, bars and the comfiest bean beds humans (or four-legged friends^) could ask for!

· Mount Franklin Lightly Sparkling Platinum Experience

Enjoy the ultimate Moonlight Cinema experience at select viewings across Australia with complimentary Mount Franklin Lightly Sparkling for each selected guest as well as a food package and enjoy personal waiter service direct to a deluxe double bean bag.

· Singapore Airlines Gold Grass

For prime views and waiter service, you can’t go past Singapore Airlines Gold Grass, with a range of food and beverage options to order straight to your bean bed.

· Connoisseur Lounge

For the ice-cream lovers, tickets to the Connoisseur Lounge come with a bean bed in a reserved area and an indulgent Connoisseur Gourmet Ice Cream stick. Pick from a choice of decadent flavours including the new Honeycomb & Australian Honey Flavour.

· K9 Natural

As a beloved dog-friendly night out, don’t forget to hire a plush bean bed for the furriest member of your family to receive a full size product, thanks to Moonlight’s pet food partner, K9 Natural.

· Official Aperol Spritz Bar

The Italian spritz synonymous with summer returns, providing freshly made Aperol Spritz as well as Espolon Tequila Sparkling Margarita cans available for purchase all season long.

· Garnier Garden Cart

Moonlight Cinema guests will also be able to take home samples of some of Garnier’s most popular products at the Garnier Garden Cart. The leading natural beauty brand is this year’s official Beauty partner and will be onsite throughout the season at movie screenings across the country.

As always guests can also prepare their own picnics, bring along refreshments and enjoy one of Australia’s quintessential summer experiences^^ (Moonlight Cinema is BYO in all locations apart from Brisbane).

Tickets and Programming

Tickets are on sale now at moonlight.com.au with more sessions and movie titles to be announced soon.

Where and When:

Sydney: Centennial Parklands, 22 November – 30 March

Melbourne: Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, 29 November – 30 March

Brisbane: Roma Street Parklands, 21 November – 16 February

Adelaide: Botanic Park, 28 November – 16 February

Perth: Kings Park & Botanic Garden, 5 December – 30 March

^ Moonlight Cinema is dog-friendly at all locations apart from Perth
^^ Moonlight Cinema is BYO at all locations apart from Brisbane

Social Feeds:

Website: moonlight.com.au
Facebook: facebook.com/moonlightcinema 

Instagram: instagram.com/moonlightcinema 

TikTok: tiktok.com/@moonlight.cinema

Have you recently welcomed home a new furry friend? Whether she/he is a bouncy new puppy or a rescued dog, chances are they're not toilet trained and accidents can and will happen...

Introducing Potty Buddy™, an Australian family-owned business, founded in Perth in 2018, whose mission is to make your dog comfortable and keep your home dry and free of smelly accidents.

The Founders also realised how much money was spent and landfill waste created during puppy toilet training.

Thanks to their Reusable Potty Pads, you can say goodbye to wet and soiled floors, crates, and furniture!

The Potty Buddy™ Reusable Potty Pads are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, ensuring they are safe for the home and free from harmful substances. 

Potty Buddy Washable Pee Pads Features:

✔️ 100% leak-proof, reusable potty pad

✔️ Ultra absorbent with anti-slip bottom

✔️ Comfortable, safe and easy to wash

✔️ Extra durable materials and stitching allow Potty Buddy™ to be machine washed over and over again.

✔️ 9 fun designs (Beige, Gray, Doggy Doodles, Waves, Grass, Pink, Blue, Stone Gray, Tan).

✔️ 5 sizes (M, L, XL, Jumbo, Mega): from 60cm x 50cm (M) to 150cm x 150cm (Mega) to suit all areas. Find the Size Chart here.

✔️ Available as a Single Pad, 2-Pack, 4-Pack or a 6-Pack (saving up to 20%) with free shipping on orders over $100.

To learn more, visit https://au.pottybuddy.co/ 

*** Win 1 of 5 Potty Buddy™ Reusable Pet Pads ***

(Total Prize Pool: $240.00 - 1 of each size, design of your choice)

HOW TO ENTER:

1) Like our Post (12/01/2025) + our Facebook page or Instagram account.

2) Like Potty Buddy on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PottyBuddyCo/ or @pottybuddy.co on Instagram. 

3) Comment "why do you want to try the Potty Buddy Reusable Potty Pad AND what design and size best meets your needs?" 

NB: photo or video entries are encouraged via our Australian Dog Lover Facebook page or on Instagram (simply tag us in your post / story* - your account must be set to public).

TERMS & CONDITIONS

1. This Competition will open on Sunday 12th January 2025 (4pm) and close on Tuesday 21st January, 2025 (11:59pm, A.E.S.T.). 

Please allow 2-3 weeks for your prize to be delivered directly from the company.

2. To Enter, Like both Accounts and our Post (12/01/25) + Tell us "why do you want to try the Potty Buddy Reusable Potty Pad AND what design and size best meets your needs?" (photos/videos welcome) via our Australian Dog Lover Facebook page  or Instagram @australiandoglover.

3. This Promotion is a game of skill and chance plays no part in determining the winner.
The entries will be judged by the Australian Dog Lover team. The winning entries will be selected based on the most creative, informative or useful statement.
4. Please note you MUST LIKE BOTH our Facebook page and the  pages to be eligible for a prize.

5. Entrants in the competition can only enter once.

6. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be redrawn.

* Entry into the competition is deemed acceptance of all terms and conditions.

Related Stories:

Building healthy puppy toilet habits with rewards-based training and durable, eco-friendly potty pads

Whoops to Woofs! Building healthy puppy toilet habits with rewards-based training and durable, eco-friendly potty pads

With 84% of pets joining their families before their first birthday, that’s a whole lot of puppies still figuring out where to ‘go’!

Potty training can be a wild (and often messy) journey, prompting many new pet owners to seek convenient, reliable and eco-friendly solutions that reinforce good toileting habits and support positive, reward-based training approaches.

“Train Your Dog Month (January) reminds us that every dog deserves healthy toilet hygiene,” says Milan Bozic, environmental engineer and Founder of Potty Buddy, premium reusable potty pads designed to save surfaces and your sanity!

“That starts with having the right tools – rewards-based toilet training methods and durable, eco-friendly reusable potty pads – that make training easier for both pets and their parents. Plus, these tools help to keep your home clean, save money and be kinder to the planet while your four-legged friend is still learning the ropes.”

Monty shows how easy potty training can be with the Potty Buddy!

Potty Buddy, a small business founded in Perth in 2019, emerged after Bozic realised how much money is spent and landfill waste created during potty training.

“Our conservative estimate is that, to date, Potty Buddy users have prevented at least 25 million disposable pads – around 700 tonnes of waste – from ending up in landfills,” says Bozic. “With 96% of Australian consumers engaging in sustainable practices, we’re excited to bring Potty Buddy Down Under and introduce cleaner potty habits to Aussie pups!”

Aussie Pups and Potty Time

Puppies are adorable bundles of energy, but when it comes to toileting, they’re still learning the ropes, notes Louise Newman, rewards-based professional dog trainer from Let’s Go Fido, a leading provider of puppy school classes in Sydney.

Newman has a number of professional dog training qualifications and is a committee member of industry-leading dog training organisation Pet Professional Guild of Australia (PPGA).

“A general rule of thumb is that puppies can hold their bladder for about half an hour for every month of age, meaning a two-month-old puppy may need a potty break every hour,” she explains. “Of course, every puppy is unique, and factors activity level and excitement can influence how often they need to go.”

Establishing good toileting habits early is crucial for keeping your home clean and setting your puppy up for long-term success.

“People often underestimate how long it can take to fully toilet train their dog, hoping they’ll just grow out of accidents,” says Newman. “But toilet training can take five to six months! 

It’s a good idea to seek guidance from your positive dog trainer early on. Visit the PPGA website to find one close to you.”

Top Tips for Puppy Potty Training

Newman shares her top toilet training tips that reinforce good toileting habits and support positive, reward-based training approaches. From building a routine to managing space effectively, here’s what you need to know:

#1. Set Up a Designated Potty Area

Puppies learn faster when they know where to go. Choose a specific spot outdoors or indoors with a consistent surface like grass or a reusable potty pad. For apartment or indoor setups, use a reusable potty pad that provide a durable, non- slip surface that puppies feel comfortable using.

Reusable potty pads are also a practical option for use in crates or playpens when puppies need confinement but still need a designated area for toileting, especially during longer stays. 

“Use a timer or schedule to remind yourself to take your puppy out at regular intervals,” says Newman.

#2. Reduce Space for Early Success

Giving puppies too much freedom too soon can lead to accidents. “Start with a confined area— just a few meters where they can play, rest and potty safely,” Newman suggests.

Create a setup where the potty area is close to their bedding but still distinct, encouraging puppies to move to the designated spot when nature calls.

#3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Dog trainer Louise Newman celebrates Monty’s potty success with lots of praise

Timing is everything! Reward your puppy with a small treat or enthusiastic praise when they take that first step away from their pee or poop and have toileted on the right surface.

“High-value treats reserved specifically for potty training can help reinforce good habits,” says Newman.

#4. Keep a Consistent Schedule

Puppies thrive on routine. Newman recommends taking them to their potty area at key times, such as after waking up, after meals or water, at the end of playtime and every 1 hour for younger puppies.

“Every puppy is unique,” she notes. “Track their patterns to fine-tune your schedule and prevent accidents. If you work full-time, it’s a good idea to take time off if you can or consider organising visits from a dog walker / sitter / trainer.”

#5. Be Calm and Patient

Accidents happen, but how you handle them matters. Newman advises against punishment, which can frighten your puppy and slow down training. Instead, without saying anything, calmly remove your pup and then clean the area with a bio-based cleaner to remove odours.

If they don’t go potty, don’t hurry them as you will distract them. Keep them on a lead while they continue sniffing. “When they pee and poo in a designated space, be enthusiastic!” says Newman. “A genuine cheerful reaction shows them they’ve done something great!”

#6. Transition Gradually

Reusable pads can act as a transitional surface, helping your puppy move from indoors to outdoor toileting. A thick, absorbent design (like in Potty Buddy) ensures comfort and reduces mess, while their versatility means they can also double as crate liners, bedding or car seat protectors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

“As a professional dog trainer, I often see owners giving puppies full access to the house too soon, which can make it harder for them to understand where to go,” says Newman.

“It’s also important to avoid using harsh tones or scolding after accidents. The frustration you are feeling comes from unrealistic expectations and poor monitoring from us the humans.

“Make sure you thoroughly clean up any messes to prevent lingering scents. And remember, if your puppy is in the middle of going, it’s best to leave them be. Picking them up at that point will only create more mess, disrupt the process and confuse them. This can even lead to them avoiding toileting near you in the future.”

If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional trainer or your vet early on.

About Potty Buddy

Potty Buddy is more than just a pad — it’s a tool to simplify the training process and reduce your environmental impact. Designed with both pets and the planet in mind, Potty Buddy™ pads offer:

✔️ Cost-effectiveness: Durable and washable for repeated use

✔️ Eco-friendliness: A sustainable alternative to disposable pads

✔️ Puppy comfort: Plush, slip-resistant, and absorbent materials

✔️ Versatile sizing: Variety of styles and sizes to suit your puppy’s needs

From indoor use to outdoor transition, Potty Buddy is a game-changer for modern pet parents. To discover more, visit https://au.pottybuddy.co/

Enter our Giveaway before 21/01/25 to Win 1 of 5 Potty Buddy™ Reusable Potty Pads!

It's a new day. It's a new month. It's a New Year! And it's time to discover new books!

Whether you chose to spend your summer holidays at home or away, here are our top picks of new releases for the January 2025 - Dog Lovers Book Club.

MUSTER DOGS

MISCHIEF AND MATESHIP
by Monica O'Brien, Michael Boughen, Melissa Spencer

See our favourite muster dogs grow from playful pups into determined, loyal workers, in this heart-warming illustrated companion book to the hit ABC TV series.

Dogs, puppies and more dogs!

Since Muster Dogs first hit our screens in 2022, it has captured the hearts of people worldwide. The gorgeous hard-working puppies and their dedicated breeders, educators and trainers it showcased have not only charmed us, but they have also taught us about the drive and capacity needed to work this land and feed our population.

But what really resonated with fans is the loyalty, connection and mutual dependence between dog and handler. The intuition and drive of the muster dog, whether kelpie or collie, is truly something to behold.

In this book, captured in vivid colour are the characters - both canine and human - and moments of drama that have made the show, as well as the tough but glorious locations around Australia that they call home.

With more than 300 photos of these wonderful dogs at work and play, creating mischief and demonstrating mateship, this is a tribute to the uncomplaining, reliable and often unsung heroes of our land.

Hardcover, 192 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 4th December 2024

Price: $34.21 from www.amazon.com.au

TAUGHT BY DOGS
working, farm & family
by Colin Whittemore

Brought up on a farm, Colin Whittemore's life was interwoven with dogs from the start. He writes of the Welsh Sheepdogs his father used on his dairy farm to bring in the cattle twice daily, but also of the farm dogs taken to the pub to lie silently under a table. 

He observes that these working dogs never played, chased a ball or fetched sticks: farm dogs took their delight in working, whether rounding up livestock, ratting or guarding. But throughout his life his mother also had 'house dogs', adored pets which she trusted implicitly to accompany children as they roamed freely all day long in the countryside, relied on to stop youngsters from getting in dangerous situations or to run for help. 

Colin writes with first-hand experience of the 'gatherings' when different hill farmers let their dogs use their own initiative out of sight, returning lost sheep from miles away, working as a team. 

He writes of settling in new puppies, choosing dogs, dogs choosing their 'masters', gun dogs, terriers, collies and his beloved Teckels, the companions of much of his life and his old age. He also writes movingly about the family dogs in his life who have bonded humans together, seen them through hardships, shown wisdom often lacking in their owners.

Hardcover, 176 pages
Publisher: Merlin Unwin, 1st December 2024

Price: $35.40 from www.booktopia.com.au

TAKING THE LEAD: A DOG AT NUMBER 10
by John Crace

'I lap up everything John Crace writes gratefully: I love his cleverness, his wit, and his heart' - Nigella Lawson

From the ingeniously quick-witted John Crace comes a satirical memoir from the eyes of his beloved dog, Herbie. And as a Westminster veteran, boy does he have some stories to share.

It started when a chance encounter with Sadiq Khan's Labrador landed Herbie a job working as a special advisor to Ed Miliband in 2014. Then he was summoned by David Cameron to work on the Remain campaign in the EU referendum. He experienced the pain of working with Theresa May; was sacked and then rehired by Boris Johnson to advise on Covid; was at Balmoral when the Queen died; had a ringside seat for Liz Truss; was fired by Rishi Sunak and then latterly taken on by Keir Starmer.

This is the story the politicians didn't want you to know. What are Larry the Cat and Dilyn the Dog really like? How did Charlotte Owen get a peerage? Herbert Hound, finally, tells all.

Hardcover: ‎288 pages
Publisher‏:‎ Little Brown, 10th December 2024

Price: $30.99 from www.booktopia.com.au

MELBOURNE FOR DOGS
Melbourne's best dog-friendly destinations
by Julie Mundy

In Melbourne For Dogs, local author and dog owner Julie Mundy provides the ultimate list of Melbourne’s best dog-friendly beaches, parks and walks. 

Featuring over 700 off-lead parks and 50 beaches, along with a comprehensive suburb-by-suburb index listing, you’re sure to find the perfect doggy destination somewhere close to home. Find out whether parks are fenced, where the nearest parking is and whether off-lead times apply. Take your family and enjoy other park facilities, such as playgrounds, BBQs and picnic areas.

This guide also provides the perfect companion from those who want to venture further afield, listing over 40 regional parks where dogs are welcome — including parks where you can even go camping with your four-legged friends. For those seeking to get fit, this guide also includes nine of Melbourne’s best dog-friendly walks, with full-colour maps, photos, walk distances and walk grades.

Series: Woodslane Walking Guides
Paperback, 196 pages
Publisher: Woodslane Press, 1st December 2024

Price: $44.50 from www.booktopia.com.au

CANINE AGILITY AND THE MEANING OF EXCELLENCE
Formulating an Ethical Approach
by Beth A. Dixon

This book is a philosophical inquiry about the meaning of excellence in canine agility. 

No matter how accomplished we are as trainers, students, or competitors, we are all either striving for excellence, realising excellence, or falling short of it, sometimes by a lot. 

This study employs a unique methodology to explore the foundational issue of excellence in agility as well as in other canine sports. 

Using interviews with ordinary practitioners of agility, judges, and competitors, as well as memoirs, autobiographies, and fictional stories, the author formulates and argues for the ethical concept of excellence.

Series: Dogs in Our World
Paperback, 188 pages
Publisher: McFarland and Company, Inc., 3rd December 2024

Price: $79.41 from www.booktopia.com.au

LIKE CATS & DOGS
by Lizzie Shane

A small-town baker faces off against her long-time nemesis on a reality TV competition in this delightful romantic comedy.

Magda Miller's feud with rival baker Mackenzie Newton is so old, folks in tiny Pine Hollow, Vermont forgot how it started. But Magda remembers: Ten years ago, she offered Mac her heart--instead, he ran off with her grandmother's maple cake recipe. Now, Mac traipses all over Magda's baking territory, just like his oversized tabby keeps sneaking into her house to claim her dog's favourite bed. So, when Magda gets the call to compete on The Great American Cake-Off, she's thrilled to finally shine in a Mac-free zone. But when she arrives on set, her devilishly handsome nemesis is already there . . .

It turns out, Mac and Magda's story has inspired the first ever Arch Rivals edition of Cake-Off, and of course Mac has to raise the stakes with a wager. The winner takes all--the Cake-Off title, the contested recipe, and control of the narrative. 

Magda is more than ready to kick Mac's Bundt. But as they spar, on-screen and off, Mac and Magda reveal the best in each other...and the sizzling attraction fuelling their rivalry. Only one of them can win, so why does it suddenly feel like they both stand to lose?

Series: Pine Hollow
Paperback, 352 pages
Publisher: Little Brown, 12th November 2024

Price: $37.75 from www.booktopia.com.au

BOOK CLUB – KIDS CORNER

BARKING BRILLIANT
A Kids Guide to Dogs
by Brian Thomas

Discover the incredible world of dogs through fascinating facts, inspiring stories, and practical advice designed just for kids! This engaging book takes young readers on a journey to explore why dogs are more than just pets - they're our loyal companions, helpers, and even heroes. 

Packed with captivating tales of real-life hero dogs, fun trivia about their amazing abilities, and insights into their unique behaviours, this book celebrates the bond between humans and their four-legged friends.

Learn how dogs communicate with tail wags and barks, uncover the secrets of their powerful noses, and dive into their history from wild wolves to lovable companions. From service dogs and therapy dogs to record-breaking pups and legendary canines, this book introduces readers to the many roles dogs play in our lives. Whether it's understanding how to care for a dog, teaching them tricks, or learning how they help scientists and society, every page is filled with awe-inspiring details.

Perfect for curious minds, animal lovers, and future dog owners, this book inspires kids to connect with the dogs around them and teaches the importance of kindness, responsibility, and respect for our furry friends. Get ready to laugh, learn, and fall in love with dogs all over again!

Paperback, 170 pages
Publisher: Indy Pub, 21st November 2024

For Ages: 7 - 12 years old

Price: $33.78 from www.amazon.com.au

IF ANIMALS COULD TALK: DOGS
Learn Fun Facts about the Things Dogs Do!
by Ann Tatlock

An excellent book for young learners If Animals Could Talk: Dogs is narrated by "Charlie" the dog. 

He teaches readers the communication devices dogs use to let humans know how they are feeling such as the types of bark they do, their body language and ear position. 

It also includes Pet Facts like "A dog who is about to bite, may wag its tail, but its body will be rigid and its tail pointing up." 

Filled with full-colour photos of real dog breeds, it also includes instructions about how to care for dogs and suggested readings for more information about dogs.

Series: If Animals Could Talk
Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: Curious Fox Books, 19th November 2024
For Ages: 4 - 8 years old

RRP: $29.79 from www.booktopia.com.au

PAULA’S PERFECT PUPPY
What does being perfect really mean?
by Gina Dawson, illustrated by Bima Perera

Paula's parents have promised her a puppy for her birthday, and today she is going to choose one. Auntie Sadie's friend has four puppies needing homes, and Paula must decide which one will be her perfect puppy.

But choosing her perfect puppy isn't so easy after all because Paula must work out what being perfect really means. Is perfect being the prettiest, or the smartest, or the best behaved? Or is it about something else altogether?

With every puppy being special in its own unique way, how will Paula decide which one will be her own perfect puppy?

Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: New Holland Publishers, 10th January 2025

RRP: $19.99. Available for pre-order from www.booktopia.com.au

WHEN DOGS WORK
by Opal Sinclair

Explore the very important jobs that dogs do every day with this photographic ode to working dogs.

Through ice and snow,
I run with my pack.
Towing my friends
Down the track.

Pre-schoolers will explore adorable dogs and their jobs in this photographic celebration. When Dogs Work explores the real jobs that dogs do! From guide dog to water rescue dog to actor-these marvellous dogs may surprise you!

In rhythmic text perfect for an energetic read-aloud, When Dogs Work points out the incredible skills that dogs have. Bright photographs of the working dogs will help pre-schoolers identify the "uniform" of each working dog.

The book's Toddler Tough format with a padded cover, rounded corners, and extra-heavy pages makes it a sturdy choice for endless story times.

Series: Big, Little Concepts
Hardcover, 24 pages
Publisher: Pajama Press, 12th November 2024

For Ages: 3+ years old

Price: $39.50 from www.booktopia.com.au 

BLUEY: THE WEEKEND
by Bluey (Author)

Based on the hit ABC KIDS TV show!

It's the weekend! What games will Bluey and Bingo play? And will everyone get to meet Bingo's new friend?

A gorgeous board book for kids of all ages.

Bluey is an award-winning preschool show about Bluey, a blue heeler pup, and her family. Airing on ABC KIDS, the show has amassed legions of dedicated fans and hugely popular ranges of books, toys, clothes, games and more.

Board book, 24 pages

Publisher: Puffin (1st edition), 7 January 2025
For Ages: ‎ 3 - 5 years

Price: $10.99. Available for pre-order now at www.amazon.com.au

OLLIE'S PUPPY LOVE
by Nicola Killen

Join Ollie and her new puppy friend Milo as they have an unforgettable adventure in this next book in the bestselling Ollie series.

When Grandma’s puppy Milo comes to stay, Ollie is excited for all the adventures they will have. So, she is upset when things don’t quite go to plan...

But as they head into the magical woods and are joined by lots of woodland friends, Milo shows Ollie that the best adventures happen when you least expect them.

With striking illustrations, cut-outs and foil throughout, this is the sixth book in the internationally beloved Ollie series by Nicola Killen.

Paperback, 24 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK, 2nd January 2025

For Ages: 3+ years old

Price: $16.99 from www.booktopia.com.au

PetCloud urges pet parents to update Pet ID Tags before New Year’s Eve

With New Year’s Eve just around the corner, PetCloud, Australia’s trusted pet management App and pet care network, is urging pet parents to update their pets’ ID tags and take proactive measures to ensure their fur kids are safe during the festivities. 

Fireworks celebrations, while exciting for humans, are a leading cause of anxiety and escape attempts in pets, turning a joyful evening into a stressful experience for many families.

Fireworks and Pet Anxiety: A Growing Concern

For pets, the loud and unpredictable nature of fireworks can trigger extreme anxiety, leading to behaviours such as trembling, barking, hiding, or attempts to escape. In fact, animal shelters report a significant increase in lost pets around New Year’s Eve due to panicked animals fleeing their homes.

“We see reports of it across social media every year,” says PetCloud CEO Deb Webber, “Pets bolt out of fear, and without proper ID, they can become lost for days or even weeks. Updating your pet’s ID tag with current contact information is a simple yet effective step to improve the chances of a safe return.”

Tips to Prevent Pet Escapes on New Year’s Eve

PetCloud recommends these measures to keep pets safe and calm:

1. Update Pet ID Tags and Microchip Information: 

Ensure tags are legible and include a current phone number. Confirm microchip details are registered and up-to-date.

2. Secure Your Home: 

Close windows, screens, doors, and gates. Double-check fences for potential escape routes.

3. Create a Calm Environment: 

Use white noise, calming music, or pheromone diffusers to reduce stress. Keep pets in a quiet room away from external noise.

4. Hire a Pet Sitter: 

For pet parents who plan to celebrate away from home, consider booking your pet with a pet sitter who will stay at your home or board your pet at their home on New Year’s Eve.

Home-Based Pet Sitting: A Trusted Solution

PetCloud offers an extensive network of police checked, insured, pet sitters who provide home-based care in a safe and familiar environment. This option is ideal for pet owners looking to ensure their pets are cared for by someone staying home during the fireworks.

“Having a sitter who understands your pet’s needs can make all the difference,” Webber adds. “On PetCloud, you can find Pet sitters are experienced in managing pet anxiety and can provide the comfort and care needed to keep pets calm.”

Post a Job and Book in Minutes

Posting a job on PetCloud is fast, free, and user-friendly. Pet owners can browse profiles, read reviews, and connect with sitters who are available over the New Year period.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your pets this New Year’s Eve with proper ID tags, a secure environment, and, if needed, the care of a compassionate sitter.

For more tips and to book a pet sitter, visit PetCloud.com.au.

About PetCloud

PetCloud is Australia’s most trusted pet care management platform, which also connects pet parents with reliable pet sitters, dog walkers, and care services nationwide. Fully insured and partnered with RSPCA Queensland, PetCloud makes pet care stress-free for busy owners, Australia-wide.

MEDIA RELEASE, 30th December 2024