Hollywood Star, Aaron Taylor-Johnson lends his voice to help Australia save 50,000 lives a year ...

Movie star Aaron Taylor-Johnson, of Kick-Ass and Avengers fame, is the voice behind a powerful 2-minute film urging the world, and Australians in particular, to adopt a shelter or pound dog this festive season – a time when dog death rates skyrocket. 

Working with dog and animal welfare organisations across Australia, the campaign features the voice of Taylor-Johnson, the owner of two rescue dogs, and brings to life the plight of the 50,000 dogs put down each year.

 
View the film here: https://youtu.be/bIDnCvxvnmo

“Every year, over 2 million dogs are euthanised around the world. Together we can end such a senseless disregard for life. Choose compassion and adopt a rescue dog today,” says the actor who has provided his time and support to the campaign pro-bono.

“Pounds and shelters across Australia are inundated during the holiday season making it the ideal time to adopt a rescue dog,” says Monika Biernacki from Doggie Rescue, one of several organisations advocating for Australians to decrease the number of dog deaths including Voiceless, SA Dog Rescue, SAFE Inc. WA, Best Friends Rescue, QLD, Starting Over Dog Rescue, VIC.

Monika Biernacki from Doggie Rescue (Sydney) with Heather

“Dogs abandonment rates climb sharply during Christmas as families and individuals can often be overwhelmed by the emotional and financial strain brought on by the festive season.”

“While pounds and shelters do the best they can with the limited resources available to them, they can’t provide homes for hundreds of dogs indefinitely,” says Monika, “This is why we are urging Australians who are thinking of gifting a pet for Christmas, or wanting a family pet, to consider adopting a rescue or pound dog - there are 1000 dogs being put down each week nationally and you could save the life of one of them.”

According to the dog welfare advocate, people shouldn’t be put off by the fact a shelter dog has been abandoned by their owner. “Many people assume that a shelter dog has been let go because they have behavioural problems, were abused, or are broken animals, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. 

Porthos, Aramis (Australian Dog Lover dogs) and Athos
dumped at the pound aged 3 months and saved by Doggie Rescue.

The majority of dogs are abandoned because their owners have fallen ill or have had a change of life circumstance and can no longer care for them. 

In fact, there are many puppies and younger dogs in pounds across the country.”

The film was written, directed and produced voluntarily by a number of passionate dog welfare advocates within the advertising industry including John Lam, Creative Partner, DDB Remedy, Jonathan May, director, Jason Ross, writer, Christopher Barron, The Hive, and Simon Lister, Nylon Studios.

Director Jonathan May says he wanted the film to be as authentic as possible.  "We took a huge risk working with untrained shelter dogs to be in the film and with the help of Monika from Doggie Rescue, we carefully selected Steve and Xena. We only had a short window of time to shoot the dog scenes but both of them nailed their part, it was almost as if they knew the importance of their roles." says May.

MEDIA RELEASE, 12th November 2018

This week we look back and celebrate some of the most inspiring animal and pet-related stories that have come out of 2018. These GoFundMe campaigns were created by several individuals, initiatives and organisations aimed at providing aid and relief to pets and wild animals in need across the nation.

The inspiring campaigns featured this week are an important reminder of Australia’s compassionate spirit and the power of GoFundMe to connect individuals with causes that resonate with them.



The Blueboys Christmas Appeal - Saving dogs before the holidays
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Goal: $100,000
Raised: $114,592 (as of 12 December 2018)
Duration: 5 days (as of 12 December 2018)

Jenny Hall is the owner of the Darren and Phillip (@The_Blueboys on Instagram) brand that has been running for four years now. In that time, Darren and Phillip has successfully raised over $180,000 for rescue dogs through the sales of its yearly calendar, clothing, and Christmas Appeal, run for the first time last year. 

The goal of the appeal is to donate as much money as possible to seven different rescue centers, so they may rescue as many dogs as possible before Christmas. In order for these groups to take in more pups, they need to ensure all finances are secure, with wiggle room for more entries to provide proper care. That’s where GoFundMe comes in, with all funds raised going directly to all seven rescue facilities, and in turn, saving numerous pups before the holidays.



Puppy Farm Rescue and Rehab - Puppy rescue group raising funds for vet costs
Location: Gillieston Heights, NSW
Goal: $20,000
Raised: $20,090 (as of 12 December 2018)
Duration: 7 months (as of 12 December 2018)

In April 2018, four rescue groups in NSW came together to rescue 19 small dogs who were breeding stock at a puppy farm in the Hunter region. Some were unwanted, and others were simply too old to produce litters. All 19 of the dogs are now faced with extensive health issues. Some are suffering from the pain of rotten teeth, infected ears and torn sheaths; while others require severe treatment due to heart murmurs, cancer and even the removal of an eye. Due to their health conditions, some of the pups are unable to move to new homes, and will remain in the love and care of the rescue groups. A GoFundMe was created to raise money for the estimated $20,000 in veterinarian costs for all the dogs- and the goal was reached!



Food for Cows - Farmer needing support to feed her cows
Location: Albion Park, NSW
Goal: $300,000
Raised: $269,338 (as of 12 December 2018)
Duration: 4 months (as of 12 December 2018)

Aussie farmers have been plagued by the drought for over two years now. New South Wales has felt the dry spell the hardest, with 99% of the state in drought, or drought affected. Perhaps most greatly impacted are the animals amongst the farms, with farmers struggling to resource water or feed. Even more devastating, some farmers have been forced to resort to shooting the livestock they can no longer afford to feed. The situation is dire to say the least. 

In desperation to save the cows on her farm, Tarnia turned to GoFundMe for support in raising $300,000. Aussies all over the nation have come together in support of the cows, almost hitting the fundraising goal in just four months.



Calan Horse Sanctuary- Update - Horse sanctuary trying to save more equines
Location: Highbury, WA
Goal: $100,000
Raised: $68,175 (as of 12 December 2018)
Duration: 15 months (as of 12 December 2018)

The Calan Horse Sanctuary in Western Australia is home to 20 ill, rescued, retired or unwanted equine residents. The horses that reside at the Calan Horse Sanctuary are considered high risk – mainly seniors over 20 with medical issues. In recent years, the sanctuary has seen a major increase in horses requiring a home and urgent care in the country. 

In fact, it is estimated that 700 horses per week are slaughtered in Australia. However, as costs continue to rise for feed, vet, dental and general care, the physicality finds themselves unable to take in additional horses. A GoFundMe was created in hopes of raising the funds required to take in as many horses as possible

MEDIA RELEASE, 12th December 2018 

FVKC taking final registrations as the 2019 Camp approaches full capacity...

Future Vet Kids Camp is a veterinary-inspired school holiday program in Sydney that offers young pet lovers something a little different to the regular holiday camp. Ask the kids who attended the camp’s 2019 program launch a few months ago with special guest Bondi Vet Dr Alex Hynes! There’s a good reason many return to camp multiple times!

The FVKC program caters to kids aged 9 to 16 years and encourages responsible pet ownership, the profession of veterinary medicine and a love and appreciation of all animals and their habitats!


“Whether or not the kids end up following the path to a vet career, simply being around lots of animals and animal lovers will have such a positive impact on them,” Dr Hynes said at the launch.

The program offers many extraordinary experiences that inspire kids to come back for more, said Vet and Camp Director Dr Scott Bainbridge, who appears on Animal Planet Canada’s TV show Dog’s Best Friend and loves to share his passion for ‘the greatest job in the world’. 

Wild encounters with Features Creatures

Campers attend blood draw and suture workshops, vet hospital excursions and veterinary talks, plus learn about dog training and behaviour, solve real-life veterinary cases and handle animals of all shapes and sizes, and much, much more, he said.

PetSure Scholarship winners announced

Future Vet Kids Camp also thanks PetSure, Australia’s leading provider of pet insurance, for donating a scholarship to two young pet lovers from the East Coast! Caitlyn May of Queensland and Rosie Poulson of New South Wales are the recipients of the 2019 PetSure Scholarship to attend Future Vet Kids Camp in Sydney in January for free and learn about what it takes to be a vet.

Caitlyn, age 14, has many pets, farm animals, reptiles and fish at home and was thrilled about receiving the scholarship! “When mum showed me the website, it all looked very exciting and fun. It was also very different to all the other courses I have done before. I still can’t believe that I got chosen for the scholarship. I can’t wait until it starts!” she said.

Rosie, age 9, has many various pets, too, including a pool of tadpoles and frogs! She has been dreaming of attending Future Vet Kids Camp for many years and said “I absolutely 100% want to work with animals in the future. I have everything planned. I am going to buy a big van when I can drive to fit all my animals in.”

Alex Thomas, CEO of PetSure, Australia’s leading provider of pet insurance, said: “PetSure employs many veterinarians on staff, and we are proud to sponsor a program that inspires young kids to fulfill their dreams of becoming a vet. We know animals play a significant role in our society so having kids interested in a career that looks after animal health and welfare is invaluable.”

Future Vet Kids Camp January 2019 Program

The January 2019 schedule is once again packed with fun and educational ‘animal adventures’, excursions (such as to Sydney’s Animal Referral Hospital) and talks by veterinarians, behaviourists and experts from animal rescue, reptile, small animal, canine sports groups and more! Campers will learn about equine health, genetic diseases, pet nutrition, stem cell therapy, animal rescue, wildlife conservation – and that’s just the beginning! 

 
For the complete schedule, please check out here.

“We love to see the campers get excited about pursuing their dream to work with animals, and then go out with the knowledge and experiences they’ve gained at the camp and start making a difference for pets and people around the world!” said Dr Bainbridge. “Some of our camp graduates have already embarked on their educational journey at veterinary school and we look forward to following their successes!”

2019 Future Vet Kids Camp Registration

When: from Jan 7 - 11 and Jan 14 - 18, 2019; Daily hours: 9am to 3:30pm 

Cost: $595 

For more information, detailed curriculum and to register online, please visit www.futurevetkidscamp.com.au

About Future Vet Kids Camp

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

The Camp operates out of Waverley College in Waverley and runs every January for two weeks during the school holidays. Programming is split into three separate age groups running simultaneously each week: Wombats (ages 9 - 11), Kookaburras (ages 12 - 14) and the Junior Vet program (ages 14 - 16).

Summer is here and as pet owners, it is our responsibility to ensure our dogs are kept cool and comfortable on extreme hot days.

When dogs overheat, they sweat a small amount through the pads on their feet but they primarily cool off by panting. When it is extremely hot and humid, panting is not enough for dogs to cool themselves down.  You need to provide alternative cooling methods to ensure your dog can efficiently cool down to avoid heat stress.

Here are some of the latest products on the Australian market to keep your dogs not only cool but also comfortable and stylish this summer!

Is your follically blessed too rock and roll to be wearing boring threads whilst out on their expeditions? Get your best mate a SaltyDOG Life Jacket, which is a must have for canine water safety and buoyancy.

Packed with features for dogs that love to join their humans in the pool, kayaking, boating, surfing, SUPing or just paddling down at the beach. This premium flotation device features thoughtful details like a strong handle for lifting dogs out of the water and a reflective trim for enhanced visibility.

A natural swimming position is made possible by strategically placed closed cell foam panels and a telescoping neck closure which adjusts for a range of dog sizes. Available in 4 colours and 6 sizes (XXS to Medium).

RRP: $40.00-$70.00 at www.saltydogs.com.au

If you’ve been using a clam shell pool to keep your dogs cool in summer, you know they rarely last more than one season and are very cumbersome.

This brand new Pop-Up Dog Portable Pool by DOOG is a fantastic concept that can be taken with you on your next camping trip or holidays or even the beach! 

This fantastic outdoor dog pool pops up with a simple flick of a wrist. Best of all, it folds down into a neat little pouch for easy storage at home.

Use it to shampoo your dog or for a quick cool down on those hot summer days.
Available in Small, Medium or Large.

RRP: $59.95 at www.doog.com.au 

The Chilly Penguin Freezer Toy by PetSafe is a treat holding toy with a bowl-shaped cavity for ice and treats. 

Multiple penguins can be stacked on top of one another in the freezer for easy storage before playtime. This toy will extend playtime and act as a fun treat for your dog!

The rounded base lets the toy wobble as your dog plays and licks the ice or treat. 

Available in Small or Medium/Large. 

RRP: $8.99-$14.99 from PetSafe Australia online and leading pet retailers.

The Swimming Tuff range designed by German company Hunter includes a range of colourful shapes such as the Floating Bone, Floating Boomerang, Floating Frisbee, Floating Orbit and the Up and Down!

The Swimming Tuff toys are made from firm nylon material, which give medium and large dogs lots of fun playing fetch both on land and in water. 

The brightly coloured swimming toys without squeakers can be grabbed by your dog ideally in water, and in the case of the Boomerang and Up & Down Range they always float upright.


RRP: $27.00- $40.00 at saltydogsurfgear.com.au 

Dogs and cats prefer drinking flowing water and with its 2-litre capacity, the super quiet Fresco Pro Smart pet fountain delivers clean filtered water to your entire fur family. 

The 3-stage filtration process effectively filters and removes hair, impurities, odour and chlorine providing cleaner drinking water to your pets reducing the risk of developing illnesses. The innovative design features a built-in LED light that automatically dims at night.

You can monitor and control your “flow” water fountain 24/7 via an app on your phone (you will receive water level alerts). 

RRP: $139.99 from selected JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman stores and Qantas store.

Modgy Expandable and Collapsible Dog bowls are perfect for keeping man’s best friend hydrated at the park or on the road.

Constructed of BPA free plastic, re-usable, easy to re-fill and zip closed, these Modgy Expandable Dog Bowls are mess free and easy to pack up when you’re ready to go.

Each package includes two dog bowls with zip closure so you can always have one with you. 

Available in six funky designs.

RRP: $13.95 at www.dogculture.com.au 

Pablo & Co is an upcoming Brisbane designer of dog accessories and they just introduced their own brand of dog rashies!

Dog Rashies can be a reliable way to protect skin from sun especially if your pup is splashing around in the water or digging around in the dirt, both of which can wear away sunscreen. 

These are great for a day at the beach or by the pool. You can even grab a matching hat to get the entire look!

The rashie is made from soft swimwear material so it’s stretchy, lightweight and quick drying. Designed to block UV rays however additional use of a dog sunscreen is advised if your dog is sensitive to the sun.

Available in a range of designs including Green Monstera Leaf (featured), B-a-n-a-n-a-s BBQ and See Ya Later Alligator.

Available in 6 sizes: from XS to 2XL.

RRP: from $34.95 at pabloandco.net

The Petkin dog sunscreen formula is described as comparable to SPF 15 for people, in a gentle, non-greasy formula.

Doggy Sunstick is a stick sunscreen that can be rubbed on anytime your dog is out in the sun, especially on ears, nose, muzzle, pink skin areas and entire coat of light coloured or short-haired dogs. Great to use for cats as well, this non-greasy formula has a pleasant coconut and vanilla scent.

The Doggy Sunstick comes in a 14g tube but alternatively you could get the Doggy Sunwipes (sunscreen wet wipes) or the Doggy Sunmist (pump spray sunscreen).

RRP: $13.95 at www.dogculture.com.au

Is your dog a beach lover? 

This Hawaiian Bucket Hat from More Than Paws comes with its own fun plastic glasses. 

Not just a cool look for summer, this hat also protects your dog's face and nose from the sun. 

An adjustable chin strap ensures it says in place.

Available in three sizes: Medium to Extra Large

RRP: $16.95 at www.morethanpaws.com.au

Made in the USA, Rex Specs durable goggles are designed for active and working dogs, with tough interchangeable polycarbonate lenses for protection from the elements and UV rays. 

Some dogs need UV protection as there are a number of eye conditions caused or compounded by exposure to UV rays. The polycarbonate material also provides full protection against sticks, branches, debris and dust. 

Adjusted properly, the Rex Specs are stable without restricting your dog’s breathing or ability to pick up toys.

Each pair comes with two lenses: one clear and one smoke. Available in six sizes, six frame colours and six lens colour options. 

RRP: $110 at sacredpetboutique.com.au 

SUNDOGZ is a portable lightweight backpack travel solution designed to shade and protect your dog from the elements. 

It offers a great solution for short-term tethering at the beach with a 360-degree rotation, free of tangles! It also incorporates a removable dual food/water bowl and compartment to secure your valuables.

It works on multi-terrain surfaces making it ideal for beach activities, camping and hiking, road trips, attending events or just relaxing outdoors with your dogs.


SUNDOGZ is a designed for the average size pet dog but to be safe, it has been tested on a 140kg miniature horse!

RRP: $269.00* at sundogz.world/shop
* this introductory price includes free shipping in Australia plus 3 gifts (towel not included).

This Dog Cooling Vest by Gold Coast business Wilko Pet Care is made from a soft fabric layer which can be immersed in water, wrung out and placed on your dog to cool them in summer. 

The evaporative cooling technology works by gradually releasing water through evaporation to keep your pet cool, comfortable, and happy.

Simply rehydrate the vest once it becomes dry after several hours. This vest will help keep your dog's body temperature down which reduces stress, panting and overheating.

Available in 4 sizes from Small to X-Large.

RRP: from $44.95 at www.wilkopetcare.com
 

The Wolf & I Co. Sailor Jerry Six Point O Leash is the ultimate water friendly dog lead.

Designed with your dog’s comfort in mind, these premium climbing rope leashes feature extremely lightweight climbing grade rope which doesn’t sag and become heavy when soaking wet.

The locking carabiner is made from aluminium and won’t rust, providing all dog owners with peace of mind.
Wolf & I Co. leashes are built to last and are a great choice for dogs that love to join their hoomans in the great outdoors. 


Simply rinse well with fresh water when you get home and allow to air dry. This will ensure your leash is in top notch condition, ready for your next adventure.

RRP: $49.95 from wolfandico.com.au

Designed in Australia, the Mog & Bone Bolster Bed in Navy Hamptons is the ultimate comfort sleeper for your pup to while away those breezy summer days.
Made from high quality 100% cotton canvas which works more effectively than polyester to regulate your pet's body temperature, and is ideal for pets with sensitive skin.

This designer dog bed has raised sides that make the perfect pet pillow and luxurious fleece so your pooch can nap in style. Simply curl up and chill out. 

Available in two sizes: Small and Large.

RRP: $89.95 - $109.95 - Shop at DOGUE Online

The P.L.A.Y. Pet Teepees are perfect for your pooch to sleep and hide away! 

They have a removable interior pillow which provides comfort for your pooch and is easy to keep clean. They are machine washable and dryer friendly.
Made from 100% cotton canvas, these teepees are lightweight and easy to assemble.

Available in Moroccan Navy, Moroccan Marsala, Classic Design and Urban Denim.

Size: 63cm x 63cm, 85cm high. Entrance hole is 27cm.

RRP: $129.95 at poochluxury.com.au

If your pup was a fruit, they'd be a fine-apple in the Pineapple bow, collar and leash combo just like Duke!

This fun, summer look will leave all the pooches at the park staring with envy at your four-legged friend. The collar features a double lock for extra safety and comes in a variety of sizes.

RRP: $22.99 from www.dukesdesignpetstore.com 

Australian Dog Lover readers receive a 10% discount using the promo code DOGLOVERS10.

If you’ve attended dog events in Sydney recently, your pooch may have already sampled a yummy Pupsicool™ by FurFresh? 

FurFresh Pupsicool™ is a human grade ice cream for dogs which comes in two healthy & delicious flavours: Peanut Butter + Banana and Bone Broth + Barley Grass. Their standard pack includes 2 x Peanut Butter + Banana and 2 x Bone Broth + Barley Grass (4 Pupsicools in total). 

They currently deliver only to suburbs within a 40km radius of Sydney. If you think yours should be added, why not contact them directly or ask your local shop to stock this summer? 

RRP: $12.00 (4 pack mixed) at furfresh.com.au 

Is your dog looking for something a little different to quench his thirst? Why not try one of these natural dog beverages by L’Barkery?

Your dog will love the all natural beef flavours of the Paw Blonde Doggie Beer with glucosamine for healthy joints! If your best friend is more into ‘mocktails’, choose Barkeraide with its fruity flavours of coconut, strawberry and mango and also provides essential electrolytes. 

Drinks come in a powdered form so simply add water and shake! They’re perfect as frozen icy treats but also work sprinkled on food.

RRP: $5.95 (single serve) at www.doggytopia.com.au

Please keep in mind that these products are not a substitute to common sense which is to keep your dogs inside under the air conditioning or in the shade with plenty of water on extreme hot days. 

Disclaimer: Please note that Australian Dog Lover does not necessarily endorse or recommend any of the commercial products listed in this article and they are listed for informational purposes only.