A New Standard of Care: Why Your Dog’s New Favourite Superfood is Certified Organic Collagen

The Australian pet care industry is currently witnessing a sophisticated evolution in nutrition. While pet supplements have been a mainstay of the market for years, a new arrival is shifting the focus toward ultra-purity and sustainable sourcing.

Collagenie has officially launched as the world’s first certified organic collagen peptide brand designed specifically for pets. This 100% Australian-made range arrives as pet owners move beyond basic "natural" claims, seeking the same rigorous certifications—like ACO and USDA Organic—that they demand for their own health products.

The Gold Standard: Why "Certified Organic" Matters

Founded by Fiona Dobbrick—the CEO behind Organic Collagen Australia—Collagenie was born from five years of research and a $4 million investment into organic peptide extraction. Dobbrick, who has spent years perfecting collagen for human wellness, felt a personal drive to extend that same quality to our four-legged family members. 

“At Collagenie, we're passionate pet parents on a mission to give every pet, the pure, uncompromised care they deserve— because nothing less will do,” says Dobbrick.

“If we can access premium, organic products for human health, our pets deserve the same. After all, they are our family.” — Fiona Dobbrick, Founder & CEO.

While the market is currently home to various collagen products, Collagenie’s point of difference is its "clean label" status. Unlike conventional collagen, which can often be processed using industrial solvents or contain hidden synthetics and fillers, Collagenie is produced using a custom-designed freeze-drying process. 

This method not only preserves the integrity of the bioactive peptides but does so without the use of toxic chemicals. The result is a human-grade product that is free from pesticides, antibiotics, GMOs, and artificial preservatives.

The Science of the "Glow"

The brand’s debut range includes three hero meal boosters: Joint & Mobility, Skin & Coat, and Whole Body Boost. 

These are unflavoured powders designed to be sprinkled over wet or dry food, or whisked with water to create a nourishing "collagen broth"—a clever hack for encouraging hydration in fussy eaters or senior dogs.

According to the brand's research, the efficacy of the range lies in a specific profile of three amino acids that target the "paws-to-tail" wellness loop. Glycine acts as a powerhouse for building connective tissue and reducing systemic inflammation, while Proline is essential for tissue repair and cell renewal—particularly vital for aging pets. Finally, Glutamine helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining, which is the frontline for immune health.

The range has already secured high-profile endorsements from the veterinary community, including Dr. Kate Adams (BSc BVMS BComm), owner of Bondi Vet Hospital. “As a vet, the shift I’m seeing is significant; people are now thinking about their animal’s health proactively,” says Dr. Adams. 

“Supporting joints, gut health, and skin from the inside out with clean, quality nutrition is exactly the kind of daily habit that makes a real difference over a pet’s lifetime.”

Tailored Support for Unique Needs

One of the most impressive aspects of the launch is the brand's focus on pets with restricted diets, often referred to as "Complex Care." 

For example, the Joint & Mobility booster contains only 2% fat per serve. 

This makes it a rare, high-protein joint support option for dogs managing conditions like pancreatitis or obesity, where high-fat treats or oil based supplements are often off the table.

For senior pets, the benefits extend to muscle maintenance and organ health. Because the boosters contain no added sodium or phosphorus, they offer a safe way to support vitality in older animals who may be showing signs of muscle wastage or "slowing down." 

For cats in particular, who frequently face kidney health challenges as they age, these boosters provide a gentle way to maintain body condition without taxing their systems.

Sustainability: From Paws to Planet

Sustainability is a core value for Dobbrick and her team, who have backed their claims with hard data. Their Sunshine Coast facility operates on hybrid solar energy and utilises a freeze-drying system that consumes 75% less electricity than traditional methods.

By repurposing bovine by-products from certified organic, grass-fed farms, the brand is contributing to a circular economy. To date, they have prevented an estimated 44,500 kg of CO2 emissions—the environmental equivalent of driving a car around the circumference of Australia 15 times. Furthermore, their partnership with Greenfleet has already seen them offset over 10 tonnes of CO2.

Purpose Beyond the Product

Collagenie’s commitment extends from the bowl to the broader animal community. A portion of all profits is donated to Australian animal refuges, and the brand is an active member of the Pet Sustainability Coalition, ensuring their environmental and ethical promises are independently verified.

Price & Where to Buy

Collagenie is available now at collagenie.com.au. 

Individual boosters retail for $49.99, while the "Subscribe and Save" option offers a 15% discount on recurring deliveries and free domestic shipping on orders over $80.

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Follow the journey: @collagenie_au

Born to Change Lives: Support Assistance Dogs Australia’s Inaugural Giving Day this May 14

For 30 years, Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) has been transforming lives by providing highly skilled dogs to Australians living with disability.

On Thursday, 14 May, the organisation is launching its first-ever Giving Day, a 12-hour marathon from 8 am to 8 pm with the ambitious goal of raising $250,000.

In an incredible show of support, all donations made during this window will be doubled up to $125,000, thanks to partners like Hyundai Help for Kids.

“We are working hard to achieve our goal of helping 10,000 people by 2035, and our Giving Day will allow us to invest in our breeding program to support us in achieving our goal,” says ADA CEO Tim Taylor.

These vital funds will go directly toward creating a new puppy birthing centre at the National Training Centre in Western Sydney, ensuring ADA can continue to provide their accredited dogs to those in need—completely free of charge.

As an organisation that receives no government funding, ADA relies entirely on the community to help them reach their goal. 

You can make a tax-deductible donation or set up your own fundraising team at www.charidy.com/ada.

“We Thought it was Just Old Age”: How New Lymphoma Screening Saved Webber’s Life

At 12 years old, Webber, a much-loved Golden Labrador and former Guide Dog, was a fixture of his Melbourne neighbourhood. Known for his gentle nature, a bottomless appetite for carrots, and a love for his daily swims, he had always been the picture of vitality.

However, over the course of a few months, Andrew and Lisa noticed a subtle but heart-breaking shift in their companion. The once food-obsessed Labrador was no longer interested in eating. His energy vanished; he no longer wanted to go for walks or swim.

“He just wasn’t himself,” says Andrew Snelling. “He’d been deteriorating for a while, but it seemed to happen so quickly.”

As Webber’s condition worsened and lumps began to appear on his body, the family began preparing for the worst. Given his age, they assumed they were witnessing a natural, albeit rapid, decline. “We had come to terms with the fact that we might have to say goodbye,” Andrew admits.

Hoping for answers before making a final decision, they visited Greencross Vets Burleigh Waters. It was a decision that would ultimately save Webber’s life.

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The Silent Statistic: 1 in 4 Dogs

Webber’s story is a window into a reality many Australian pet owners face. Around one in four dogs will develop cancer in their lifetime. Lymphoma is among the most common forms, yet until now, it has often only been identified once symptoms are advanced.

“Dogs can seem completely healthy, and then deteriorate very quickly,” explains Dr. Magdoline Awad, Chief Veterinary Officer at Greencross Vets. “By the time we see clinical signs, the disease is often already quite advanced. That’s the reality many pet owners are facing.”

During Webber's consultation, Veterinary Director Dr. Josephine Hartono recommended a proactive approach through a senior wellness plan. Notably, this marks the first time such cancer screening has been incorporated into a structured senior wellness program in Australia. This included a ground-breaking new blood-based screening test developed by IDEXX Laboratories.

The test, called IDEXX Cancer Dx™, is designed to help detect canine lymphoma earlier—in some cases, months before clinical signs are noticed. Webber’s test came back positive.

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A Pivot from Reactive to Proactive Care

For Andrew and Lisa, the diagnosis was a shock, but it was also a lifeline.

“Without that test, we would have just assumed it was old age and let him go. Instead, we were able to act.” — Andrew Snelling, Webber’s owner.”

With the guidance of their veterinary team, Webber began a treatment plan that was accessible and manageable. His medication is affordable, non-invasive, and simply administered at home with his meals.

Today, six months later, Webber isn’t just stable—he’s thriving. “He’s better than he was before we went in,” Andrew says. “He’s eating again and is back to loving his carrots. He has his energy back; he’s enjoying his walks and swims.”

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Is Your Dog at Risk?

This shift in veterinary medicine is moving away from reactive treatment toward earlier detection, particularly for senior dogs (aged 9 to 12). However, for certain high-risk breeds, veterinarians are now suggesting screening from as young as four years of age.

Breeds with a higher predisposition to lymphoma include:

• Retrievers: Golden and Labrador

• Shepherds: German Shepherd and Flat-Coated Retriever

• Working Breeds: Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Bullmastiff

• Terriers & Others: Boxer, Beagle, Miniature Schnauzer, and both English and French Bulldogs

“Senior dogs deserve the same forward-thinking approach to healthcare that we value for ourselves.” — Dr. Magdoline Awad, Chief Veterinary Officer, Greencross Vets.”

“As veterinary medicine continues to shift toward earlier insight, tools that support preventive screening are becoming increasingly important.” says Dr. Jason Johnson, Chief Medical Officer at IDEXX Laboratories.

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The Gift of Clarity

While no test can prevent cancer, earlier detection provides the one thing pet owners need most: time. The test can be incorporated into routine wellness checks, often using the same blood sample taken for standard annual labs, meaning no extra needles for the patient. It allows for more informed conversations between vets and owners before a crisis occurs.

For Webber’s family, the experience has completely reshaped how they view pet health. “We feel really lucky,” Andrew says. “If they hadn’t suggested the testing and talked us through it, Webber wouldn’t be here.”

Webber's most recent check-up showed his T-cells returning to normal. He is back to creating memories with the family who adores him—a living testament to why we should never just "assume it's old age."

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Related Stories:

• The lifesaving benefits of early canine cancer detection

• Treating Canine Lymphoma: Why you should not lose hope

• Is your home safe? Pet cancer linked to common household chemicals

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Editor’s Note: If your dog is a senior or belongs to a high-risk breed, consider discussing proactive cancer screening with your veterinarian during your next wellness visit.

Native Superfoods: The New Aussie-Made Range Hitting Ritchies Shelves

In several Australian Aboriginal languages—particularly Warlpiri and other languages of the Northern Territory and North Queensland—the word Bunji means "mate," "close friend," or "kinsman." It is a name that perfectly describes the one who waits by the door, walks beside you, and knows when you need them most. It is also the name of a new player in the Australian pet food market that is betting dog owners are looking for something more than just another generic, mass-produced kibble.

Bunji, the pet care arm of Cooee Native Superfoods, has officially landed in Ritchies IGA stores across the country, following a successful rollout in 163 Bunnings Warehouses. 

While many "big name" Australian brands have recently shifted to international ownership or trans-Tasman conglomerates, Bunji is keeping things strictly local. Developed and produced in Inverell, New South Wales, the brand is 100% Australian-owned and operated, focusing on a supply chain that sources directly from regional farmers and native ingredient growers.

The Science of Saltbush and Bush Rosemary

The core of the Bunji range isn't just about the protein; it’s about the "botanicals." Rather than using standard fillers or synthetic additives, the recipes utilise native Australian plants that have evolved to be nutrient-dense in our unique environment.

• Old Man Saltbush is a standout inclusion. Long known by regional graziers for its ability to thrive in dry conditions, Saltbush is a mineral powerhouse for dogs. It is naturally high in Calcium and Magnesium and contains a unique profile of antioxidants and Vitamin E. For a dog’s diet, this translates to a natural source of electrolytes and minerals that support metabolic function and skin health, without the need for heavily processed, lab-made supplements.

• Bush Rosemary is the other key player. Most premium dog foods use standard rosemary as a natural preservative, but the native Australian variety is particularly potent. It contains high levels of carnosic acid, which helps protect cells from free-radical damage and supports a healthy immune system. Because it is a natural antimicrobial, it also helps keep the kibble fresh without the use of artificial chemical preservatives like BHA or BHT.

Australian Imagined, Australian Made

In an era of "corporate dilution" where major labels are often owned by overseas investment firms, Bunji is positioning itself as a transparent alternative. By keeping the entire process—from the initial recipe ideas to the final bagging—within regional New South Wales, the brand ensures that the nutritional integrity of the local ingredients isn't lost in a long, complicated supply chain.

This "Australian-first" approach addresses a growing demand for transparency. Dog owners are increasingly looking for products where they can trace the ingredients back to a specific region. By basing their operations in Inverell, the team behind Bunji is able to oversee the quality of the raw ingredients arriving from local farms, ensuring a shorter distance from the farm gate to the pet’s bowl.

Design with Depth

The unique identity of the brand extends to the packaging, which stands out in a crowded supermarket aisle. The bags feature intricate illustrations by artist Kate Webster, with each artwork inspired by water, bushland, or outback regions.

These designs aren't just decorative; they are visual representations of the native ingredients and the specific environments where they grow. Each SKU features specific artwork—such as the blue and purple tones inspired by the Murray region for the fish variants—bringing cultural depth and storytelling to the range while keeping the identity warm and familiar.

On the Menu: The Product Range

The Ritchies rollout features four key SKUs that focus on high-protein bases paired with native "superfoods." The recipes are designed to be high-protein and easy on the digestive system, using Australian-sourced beef, lamb, and fish.

    ✔️ Roast Beef and Bush Rosemary Pie: Available in both 3kg Kibble and 400g Training Treats, this variant utilises the antioxidant properties of native rosemary to balance the rich protein profile of Australian beef.

    ✔️ Nana’s Lamb and Saltbush Stew: A gentler protein option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, available in 3kg Kibble and 400g Training Treats, utilising saltbush as a natural mineral supplement.

    ✔️ Fish and Sea Parsley Mornay: Often found in the 400g Training Treat range, this recipe focuses on Omega-3 fatty acids and marine-derived ingredients to support everyday digestive health.

With the brand expanding into more than 200 independent supermarkets this month, it’s clear that there is a significant appetite for pet products that prioritise regional manufacturing and functional, native ingredients over standard commercial fillers.

Price & Where to Buy

The Bunji range is available now at Ritchies IGA, Foodland (SA), and Bunnings Warehouse locations nationally.

• Bunji Super Dog Treats (400g): RRP $18.99

• Bunji Super Kibble (3kg): RRP $28.99

Website: bunjinativesuperfoods.com.au

Instagram: @bunji.au

Facebook: Bunji Native Superfoods

More Than Just a Pet: Why Lort Smith is Celebrating "Fur Mums" This Mother’s Day

While Mother’s Day traditionally celebrates human milestones, Lort Smith Animal Hospital is reminding us that the nurturing bond between "fur babies" and their caregivers is just as worthy of recognition.

With approximately 36% of pet owners being couples without children and 20% being single-person households, the definition of "family" has evolved. Today, the role of a fur mum—as an advocate, protector, and provider of unconditional love—is deeply valued for its impact on our health and happiness.

“Recognising Mother’s Day for those with pets is about acknowledging the deep, nurturing bond between pet parents and their animals, validating the significant dedication, and unconditional love involved in caretaking,” says Lort Smith CEO, Frances Mirabelli.”

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Case Study: Spud’s Journey to Confidence

For Brunswick resident Brianna Hudson, being a "mum" to her five-year-old Bulldog, Spud, is a role she cherishes deeply. Spud didn’t have the best start to life; adopted at age two, he arrived with more gaps in his history than answers.

“His early world was very small, with signs that he may have come from an unregulated backyard breeding environment,” Brianna explains. “What was clear when he came into my care was how overwhelming everything felt for him. He was frightened, very easily overstimulated, and unfamiliar with even the simple experiences. Leads were confusing, walks felt like too much, and cars were absolutely terrifying. When he first came home, it seemed he may never have been inside a house before.”

The transition was a physical challenge as well as an emotional one. As Spud’s body finally began to relax, he came down with a severe case of doggie flu, requiring constant nursing and medication to help him recover.

Small Wins and Big Wiggles

With time, lots of patience, and gentle introductions to the world around him, little Spud began to grow more confident. Moments that once overwhelmed him—stepping into a puddle, feeling a new texture underfoot, or passing a trolley—slowly became things he could move through and even enjoy.

“One of my favourite memories of those first few weeks was him discovering something that was entirely his: his name,” says Brianna. 

“Each time you’d say ‘Spud,’ his eyes would brighten and his whole body would sway with a happy little wiggle, as if he was proudly answering, that’s me!”

Life as a "Man About Town"

As he grew even more confident, I had the absolute joy of expanding his world little by little… first trip to a park, first trip to a beach and new friendships. 

Today, three years on he has become quite the “man about town” a socialite who insists on stopping by the cafés and shops he loves most for pats and cuddles, often greeted by name from across the street.

“He’s even learned how to catch the tram with me to explore nearby parks just beyond walking distance, and he absolutely loves it,” Brianna says. “At home, he’s a total cuddle bug who rules the house—with a particular fondness for his giant snuggly beanbag.”

For Brianna, the bond holds a meaning similar to any other form of caregiving. “He doesn’t need me to be perfect, just present, steady, and kind. Our bond reminds me to slow down, to notice more, and to care with my whole heart.”

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Could You Be a Fur Mum?

If you have room in your heart for a new connection, Lort Smith has three beautiful souls looking for their forever "Mums" right now:

• Spice: Spice, is a bold, bright seven-month-old Bull Arab pup with a big personality and an even bigger heart. Deaf and full of potential, Spice is already shining with her eagerness to learn, she’s picking up hand signals and loves engaging with her people.
  
  Active, clever, and affectionate, she’s looking for a dedicated, experienced home that can provide positive training, structure, and plenty of enrichment as she grows. Spice would thrive with an active family and may suit a confident, well-socialised dog companion.

• Buckley: A confident, curious gentleman with movie-star looks. Buckley loves attention and being right in the middle of the action. He may suit a home with older children and potentially a playful dog friend, though he can be a bit enthusiastic in play. He’s social, affectionate, and ready to steal the spotlight.

• Lucy: The lovely Labrador with a big heart and an even bigger wiggle! Goofy and clever, she’s all enthusiastic zoomies and classic Labrador charm, looking for a patient soul to bond with.

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“The positive impact animals have on our health and happiness is widely recognised and deeply valued,” says Ms Mirabelli. “We would like to take a moment to recognise and thank all mothers and their pets for making this world a little bit brighter.”

The Brisbane-born lifeline that protects your pet when something happens to YOU!

May marks Responsible Animal Guardian Month, a time for pet owners to look beyond the daily walks and treats to the more serious side of pet care.

On May 9, we will observe National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day, a date usually associated with bushfire kits and evacuation routes. However, Brisbane founder Ella Broomham realised that for most of us, the most likely "disaster" is the one we aren't talking about: What happens to our pets if something happens to us?

The "Nobody" Realisation

For Ella, a Brisbane-based marketing professional and dog owner, the moment of realisation came while driving home one afternoon. 

It was a thought she couldn't stop thinking about: If she were in an accident right now, who would know her dog, Indy, was home alone?

Like most dedicated owners, she had the good food, the vet on speed dial, and the favourite toy. She had thought of everything—except the "unreachable" scenario. If first responders were called to her side, who would know a pet was waiting at her house, and exactly what that pet needed? The answer, she realised, was probably nobody.

Finding nothing on the market that felt premium enough to belong on a keyring next to a well-made wallet, she decided to build it herself. Wren is a small Australian brand with one simple mission: to make sure your pet is never left without answers.

The Problem No Other Tag Has Solved

“If you are in an accident, your phone is locked. You cannot communicate. Your pet is home alone, waiting by the door,” explains Ella. “A collar tag does nothing in that situation—but your keys are right there. That is where Wren is most powerful.”

Wren is a precision-crafted stainless steel QR tag system. It comprises two distinct tag types, both linked to a single digital emergency profile:

• The Wren Keyring Tag: Designed for the owner’s keys. A single scan by a responder reveals the pet’s feeding schedule, medications, and emergency carer contacts. It even supports multiple pets on one profile.

• The Wren Collar Tag: If the pet gets lost, the finder scans the tag to access contact details and vital notes on how the animal handles strangers.

A Platform Built for the Moments That Matter

Each Wren tag connects to a live digital emergency profile managed at wrenpet.au. While the physical tags are the hardware, the digital platform provides the intelligence, featuring three specific tools that separate Wren from any other product:

✔️ Lost Pet Mode: Activates an urgent alert the moment an owner marks their pet as missing. Anyone who scans the tag is immediately informed the animal is lost and that the owner needs to be contacted urgently.

✔️ Scan Location Capture: Every time either tag is scanned, the system logs the precise location. This gives owners an immediate digital trail of exactly where their tag was found.

✔️ The Instant Missing Pet Poster: When a pet goes missing, every second counts. With a single tap, the platform generates a print-ready PDF pre-filled with the pet's photo and description. No designing, no wasted time.

Smart Tech, No Subscriptions

Importantly, Wren has ditched the subscription model typical of smart tags. One purchase keeps the profile active for life, with no app or software required for rescuers to use it.

“We did not want ongoing fees to be the reason someone left their pet unprotected" says Ella.

How to Get Wren (Presale Now Open)

Wren is currently available for pre-order in four premium finishes: Gold, Rose Gold, Brushed Silver, and Matte Black.

Special Launch Offer: Use code WRENPRESALE10 for 10% off.

• Wren Keyring Tag: $34.95 AUD

• Wren Collar Tag: $34.95 AUD

• Wren Bundle (Keyring + Collar): $54.00 AUD

• Wren Window Sticker: $9.99 AUD (Alerts responders to pets inside the home)

Not because something will happen, but because your pet deserves an owner who is prepared for everything. Because they’d do it for you.

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Website: wrenpet.com.au

Instagram: @wrenpet