Compare the Market found pet owners have forked out almost $300 on average

The majority of Australians have paid hundreds out-of-pocket for desexing their pet, according to a new study by Compare the Market.

The pet insurance comparison experts – who surveyed a nationally representative sample of more than 1,000 Australians – found 65% admit to paying for a desexing procedure, while 19% said their pet insurance policy had partially or fully covered the surgery.

Australians said they have spent $289 on average to desex their dog or cat.

Response	Proportion of responses
Yes, I paid out-of-pocket	65%
Yes, it was fully covered by a pet insurance policy	12%
Yes, it was partially covered by a pet insurance policy	7%
No, but I intend to	9%
No, I have no intention of getting my pet desexed	8%

Note: Percentages were rounded to the nearest whole number and may not add up to 100%.

More than half of participants said they primarily desexed their pet to prevent unwanted breeding, while a quarter cited improving their pets’ health and ensure a longer lifespan as the motive.

According to the research - for dogs and cats that haven’t been desexed - 12% of pet owners in Australia have experienced their pets having unexpected litters.

Compare the Market Australia’s Executive General Manager of General Insurance, Adrian Taylor, said pet insurance can help provide financial peace-of-mind for owners.

“The majority of pet owners pay out-of-pocket in order to desex their pets, but there are a variety of other potential costs associated with owning a dog or cat,” Mr Taylor said.

“One key oft-forgotten factor is whether owners can afford to pay veterinarian bills in full if your pet is sick, injured in an accident or needs emergency care.

“Pet insurance provides a financial safety net in these unexpected circumstances and is an important part of responsible pet ownership, but don’t just pick the first insurer you see. Compare your options, offers and find a policy that suits your circumstances.”

For the full survey results, visit https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/pet-insurance/features/desexing-pets-index-2025

About comparethemarket.com.au

Compare the Market is a comparison service that takes the hard work out of shopping around. We make it Simples for Australians to quickly and easily compare and buy insurance, energy, and home loans products from a range of providers. Our easy-to-use comparison tool helps you look for a range of products that may suit your needs and benefit your back pocket.

Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) to check for the inclusions, limits and restrictions before purchasing.

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Force-Free Puppy Training

Across Australia, thousands of families brought home a new puppy over the summer holidays - fast forward to March, and many are now struggling with chewed-up furniture, endless accidents, and late-night howling. 

“Why is my puppy biting everything (including me)? Why won’t they listen? Why do they pee on the rug right after being outside?”

According to Sarah Rutten, force-free dog training expert and founder of The Canine Perspective, these early weeks are critical for setting puppies up for a lifetime of good behaviour, without outdated punishments, confusion, or frustration.

“The first two weeks can make or break your relationship with your pup,” Sarah says. 

“Start off right, and you’ll prevent a whole heap of headaches down the track.”

Sarah, a straight-talking advocate for force-free training, shares her top do’s and don’ts for the first 14 days with a new puppy, so overwhelmed pet guardians can breathe easy and build a strong foundation from day one.

The Do’s: Setting Your Pup Up for Success

1. Establish a routine – Your pup doesn’t need a rigid schedule, but predictability helps! Take them out for toilet breaks after naps and meals to make toilet training click faster.

2. Reinforce the good stuff – If your puppy is calmly lying down, reward it! Too often, we ignore the good and only focus on ‘fixing’ problem behaviours. Show your pup what you do want!

3. Introduce new experiences (safely!) – Socialisation is crucial, but make sure it’s positive. Worried about vaccines? Carry your pup and expose them to sights and sounds safely.

4. Let them rest – Puppies need a lot of sleep! Ensure they have quiet time and discourage kids from constantly handling them.

5. Be patient and consistent – Puppies are learning a whole new world. Keep cues consistent and avoid overloading them with rules all at once.

6. Give them time to adjust – Leaving their littermates is a huge change. Stay with them as much as possible for the first two weeks before slowly introducing alone time.

7. Keep their diet stable – Changing food too soon can cause tummy troubles. If you want to switch their diet, do it gradually.

8. Provide appropriate chew toys – Puppies bite: it’s how they learn about the world! 

Redirect them to appropriate chew toys rather than punishing them for mouthing.

9. Enrol in a force-free puppy class – Training isn’t about ‘fixing’ your dog—it’s about teaching you both how to communicate. 

Check out The Canine Perspective's puppy school classes here

10. Consider pet insurance early – Vet bills can pile up fast! Getting insurance early prevents exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

11. Introduce other pets slowly – Existing dogs and cats might not love the new addition immediately. Give them escape routes and safe spaces.

12. Have fun and get to know your pup – Every dog has their own personality, history, and instincts. Learn what makes your pup tick!

The Don’ts: Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Don’t punish ‘bad’ behaviour – Punishment creates fear, not learning. Puppies aren’t ‘misbehaving’—they just don’t know the rules yet!

2. Don’t overwhelm them – New experiences should be introduced gradually. Rushing can cause anxiety and stress.

3. Don’t force handling – Get your puppy comfortable with being touched slowly—don’t just grab their paws or ears and expect them to love it!

4. Don’t expect too much too soon – Your pup is just a baby. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and fun.

5. Don’t ignore stress signals – A stressed pup might yawn, lick their lips, or avoid eye contact. Learn to read their signals and give them space when needed.

6. Don’t leave them alone for hours on end – Arrange for someone to be with them during the first couple of weeks, and ease into alone time gradually.

Sarah Rutten believes that the best dog guardians aren’t the ones who have ‘perfect’ dogs—but the ones who take the time to understand their dog’s needs.

“Training is about building a relationship, not just teaching cues,” she says. 

“If you listen to your dog and guide them with kindness, you’ll get the kind of companion people dream of —without the stress and struggle.”

Experience with all the joys (and challenges!) that come with raising a young dog. 

Sarah will be sharing her journey with her new puppy Floyd via her social media accounts.

Sarah Rutten has also written a book, The Canine Perspective, which includes an entire chapter dedicated to puppy training. 

Sarah's book (Paperback or Kindle) is available for purchase through Amazon Australia or via:

www.thecanineperspective.com.au/the-canine-perspective-dog-training-book

In addition to her book, she offers training courses including 'Online Puppy School' and other expert-led programs to help dog guardians navigate puppyhood with confidence.

About the Author

Sarah Rutten has loved animals ever since she can remember – and dogs in particular. It didn't matter if it was her beloved family pet, the neighbour’s canine companion, or her friend’s furry family member. She was the kid that was always found out the back hanging out with dog.

But it wasn’t just the dogs she loved, she loved their behaviour and understanding why they did what they did. So, after completing high school in Lismore, Northern NSW, Australia and spending a couple of years in the workforce, she decided to make the bold decision to follow her passion into canine behaviour and training.

In 2003 she officially took the plunge and enrolled in Delta Society Australia's Certificate IV in Dog Behavioural Training. It was a transformative experience, and on completion of her qualifications - she co-founded Paw Power Dog Training. In 2009, she embarked on a three-year Diploma in Canine Behaviour Science & Technology at the Companion Animal Sciences Institute in Canada.

In mid-2013, after leaving Paw Power Dog Training behind she opened The Canine Perspective. She completed the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainers Professional Course in 2016. She's a proud Delta Accredited Instructor and hold memberships of the Karen Pryor Academy, the Association of Animal Behaviour Professionals, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (Australia), and the Pet Professional Guild. Furthermore, she is a qualified assessor for Greenhounds, a qualified assessor and trainer for mindDog Australia and serve as a Department of Local Government temperament assessor.

Currently, Sarah resides between East Ballina and the Sunshine Coast, Australia with her partner, Chris, and their Pugs: Doug and new puppy Floyd. Apart from helping people with their canine companions, she indulges in her many hobbies - such as macramé, reading, walking, going to the gym, music, social media scrolling and spending quality time with friends—both human and canine!

You can follow Sarah Rutten and The Canine Perspective on www.thecanineperspective.com.au, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thecanineperspective or @thecanineperspective on Instagram.

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The Petstock Foundation partners with ambassador Laura Byrne to create a better future for all pets 

With nearly 1 in 5 Australian households welcoming a new pet in recent years, the Petstock Foundation is calling on Australians to create a better future for pets this National Pet Adoption Month by considering adoption. 

Currently, more than 10,000 animals, ranging from cats and dogs to guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, and even larger pets like horses, are in search of loving homes [1].

According to the Petstock Pet Parent Report 2024, the most significant barrier to adoption is uncertainty about a pet’s history, with 53% of prospective adopters concerned about behavioural or medical issues. Education is key to overcoming these barriers.

Leading podcaster and reality TV star Laura Byrne, has partnered with the Petstock Foundation for the second time as an ambassador for National Pet Adoption Month 2025. 

Laura says, “There are so many pets that need a loving home and I think there is a deep sense of appreciation and love that comes from adopting a rescue animal rather than ‘buying’ an animal. I really want to change the stigma that rescue animals come with behavioural issues or past traumas - as often they have the most beautiful temperament.

“Last year, we added a sassy rescue kitten named Raspberry to our family. She quickly became queen of our household and sleeps in our daughter Lola’s bed most nights. We were so proud of how well she settled in, becoming best of pals with our rescue dog Buster who has been with us since 2016.

The kids love having animals and I think it gives them such a good sense of responsibility as they help to take care of them. It really is something special.”

Animal Behaviourist Lara Shannon explains, “Many rescue pets, including dogs, cats, and smaller animals, are already house-trained and have basic manners. Most of the time, adopting a pet isn’t starting from scratch—it’s about building on the great traits they already have.”

Lara also encourages adopters not to overlook larger pets or bonded pairs, "For example, larger dogs don’t necessarily need more exercise than small dogs — it depends on their breed, age and personality. Bonded pairs are also perfect for those worried about leaving pets alone during the day, as they keep each other company.”

Head of Petstock Foundation, Jessica Curtis encourages potential pet parents to consider different breeds of pet, depending on what their individual living circumstances allow: 

“With housing situations in mind, National Pet Adoption Month is a chance for Australians to consider not only traditional pets like dogs and cats, but also smaller companions like guinea pigs, birds and reptiles that may be easier for renters to adopt. Together, we can help create a better future for all pets and people.”

With 97% of Australians agreeing that pets positively impact their lives and 95% noting that pets improve their mental health, it’s clear that the human-animal bond is vital to wellbeing. Additionally, cats are increasingly thriving in unconventional environments, with 53% living in share houses and 51% in households with five or more people.[2]

“Adoption doesn’t just change the life of the animal,” says Jessica. “It enriches families, and individual lives. It’s about building a better future together.”

The Petstock Foundation exists to strengthen the rewarding bond between pets and people and has found homes for more than 41,000 rescue pets since its inception in 2007.

Animal lovers are encouraged to visit their local Petstock store during March to find a rescue pet that needs a loving home. Across National Pet Adoption Weekend, Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd March, select stores will have rescue pets available for adoption or fostering in store.

To empower a better future for all pets, you can donate to the Petstock Foundation in-store or online. 

Visit www.petstock.com.au/adopt to find out more.

1. https://www.petrescue.com.au - accessed 6 January 2025

2. Petstock Pet Parent Report 2024

About the Petstock Foundation

The Petstock Foundation is a registered charity that exists to empower a better future for pets and people. Since its inception in 2007, the Foundation has raised more than $14 million to date and has found homes for more than 41,000 rescue pets. Petstock Foundation is contributed to by the fundraising initiatives of the Petstock Group, donations by business partners and team members as they come together for the pets that inspire them. 100% of funds raised go towards the Foundation to support its charitable partners and projects with all operating costs covered by the business.

MEDIA RELEASE, 19th March 2025

Family law experts welcomes reforms to protect pets in legal disputes

Australian pets are about to be recognised for their role in families with new reforms coming into effect this June for family law. For the first time, Australian legislation will acknowledge the role of companion animals in family disputes.

Family law expert Angela Tondelstrand welcomes the changes, highlighting the growing recognition of pets as more than just property in separation proceedings. Under the reforms, courts will now consider attachment to pets and any history of animal abuse when determining pet ownership after separation. However, joint pet custody orders will not be allowed.

“These changes mark a significant step toward a more just and compassionate family law system, ensuring that the welfare of pets is properly considered and that separating couples receive fair outcomes when it comes to their beloved animals,” says Ms Tondelstrand, a Director at Catton and Tondelstrand Family Lawyers.


The legal shift acknowledges the deep emotional bonds between individuals and their pets, as well as concerns about the potential use of animals as a means of control or coercion in abusive relationships. Courts will now have the power to take into account which party has been the primary caregiver for the pet, as well as any risks of harm if the pet were to be placed with a particular party.

Tondelstrand advises couples undergoing separation to be mindful of these changes and seek legal advice on how they might impact pet ownership disputes.

“Couples in the process of, or considering separation, need to keep this in mind as the new rules will apply to all new and ongoing cases, except those where a final hearing has already started,” she says.

These reforms reflect the evolving understanding of pets as family members rather than mere assets, bringing family law in line with modern attitudes towards animal welfare.

MEDIA RELEASE, 19th March 2025

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Celebrate International Day of Happiness with Greyhounds As Pets! 

There’s no greater joy than the unconditional love of a Greyhound! This International Day of Happiness, we’re celebrating with a special Greyhound Adoption Event — because nothing spreads happiness like inviting a Greyhound into your home!

✔️ Meet & Greet adorable Greyhounds ready for adoption
✔️ Chat with experts to find your best Greyhound match for your lifestyle
✔️ All welcome! Bring the kids and your friends. Kids activities | Face painting, Jumping castle!
✔️ Bring your pooches along to meet and greet their new Greyhound sibling! Let the staff know on arrival that you have your dog with you, and they will facilitate a special meet-up for them.

Special Adoption Rates:

For this special event, adoption fees are reduced to help more Greyhounds find their happily ever after!

• Greyhound Adoption Fee: $150 (normally $250)
• Sweet Seniors (7+ years): $75 (normally $150)

Why Adopt A Greyhound? 

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

Greyhounds are known for their calm nature, loving personalities, and minimal upkeep—they bring so much happiness to every home! Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion or a new best friend, now is the perfect time to adopt.

Ready to find your Greyhound match? Register for the Dogalogue below!

View all available dogs for adoption and submit your application early at gapnsw.com.au.

Date: Saturday 22nd March 2025, from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Where: ANU | The Australian National University, P499+F8 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, ACT, 2600

Visit the event page here: Greyhound Adoption Event – ANU Canberra

Other Greyhound Adoption Days this weekend!

Saturday 22nd March 2025

Meet Summer at GAP NSW Londonderry

• Greyhounds As Pets Western Sydney Adoption Centre: View details
• Pets Domain Casino: from 10:00 am. View details
• Petstock Albury: from 10:00am- 4:00pm. View details
• Petstock Tamworth: View details

Sunday 23rd March 2025

• Petstock Albury: from 10:00am- 4:00pm. View details
• Petstock Grafton: from 10:00am - 1:00pm. View details

About The International Day of Happiness

March 20th marks the International Day of Happiness, a global celebration established by the United Nations in 2012 to highlight the importance of well-being in creating a more positive and sustainable world. This day acknowledges that happiness plays a key role in both individual and collective prosperity.

Since its first celebration in 2013, the movement has grown, with people worldwide engaging in activities that foster joy, kindness, and connection. The day serves as a reminder that prioritising happiness can lead to stronger communities, greater equality, and a more peaceful world for all.

MEDIA RELEASE, 18th March 2025

Australia's Most Popular Dog Breeds in 2025: A State-by-State Look

“Australia is a nation of dog lovers, and every year, the list of most popular breeds shifts to reflect trends in pet ownership,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. 

“From the ever-popular Cavoodle to the growing fascination with doodle breeds, certain preferences stand out across different states.”

Australia’s Overall Top 10 Breeds

1. Cavoodle
2. French Bulldog
3. Golden Retriever
4. Border Collie
5. Groodle
6. Miniature Dachshund
7. German Shepherd
8. Labrador
9. Maltese
10. Poodle

“The Cavoodle remains Australia's favourite dog, combining the best of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle,” Crighton says. “The ongoing trend of designer breeds, particularly those with hypoallergenic coats, has contributed to the popularity of doodles like the Groodle and Labradoodle.”

Meanwhile, traditional favourites like the Golden Retriever, Border Collie, and German Shepherd continue to hold strong due to their intelligence and versatility.

State-by-State Breakdown

New South Wales (NSW)

1. Cavoodle
2. French Bulldog
3. Golden Retriever
4. Groodle
5. Border Collie
6. Miniature Dachshund
7. Poodle
8. Labrador
9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
10. German Shepherd

“New South Wales dog owners show a preference for family-friendly, intelligent breeds,” notes Crighton. “The Cavoodle reigns supreme, thanks to its small size, adaptability to apartment living, and affectionate nature.”

The enduring appeal of Golden Retrievers and Border Collies suggests that many NSW residents value active, trainable dogs that fit well into outdoor lifestyles.

Queensland

1. Cavoodle
2. French Bulldog
3. Golden Retriever
4. Border Collie
5. Miniature Dachshund
6. German Shepherd
7. Groodle
8. Maltese
9. Labradoodle
10. Cocker Spaniel

“Queensland’s list closely mirrors the national ranking, with an added emphasis on breeds that thrive in warm weather,” Crighton says. “The Labrador and Maltese remain popular due to their suitability for the state’s beach-friendly lifestyle, while doodle breeds continue to rise due to their low-shedding coats.”

South Australia

1. Cavoodle
2. French Bulldog
3. Border Collie
4. Golden Retriever
5. Groodle
6. Maltese
7. Miniature Dachshund
8. Labradoodle
9. Labrador
10. German Shepherd

“South Australians appreciate versatile working breeds like the Border Collie and German Shepherd, which are excellent for rural and suburban homes alike.”

The continued presence of doodle breeds suggests a preference for intelligent, allergy-friendly companions.

Victoria

1. Cavoodle
2. Golden Retriever
3. French Bulldog
4. Groodle
5. Border Collie
6. Labrador
7. German Shepherd
8. Poodle
9. Maltese
10. Miniature Dachshund

“Victoria’s love for the Cavoodle is strong, but the Golden Retriever has claimed second place, reflecting a preference for loyal, family-friendly dogs,” Crighton says. “The high ranking of the Poodle and Groodle also suggests that many Victorians are drawn to intelligent breeds with low-shedding coats.”

Western Australia

1. Cavoodle
2. French Bulldog
3. Golden Retriever
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
5. Groodle
6. Miniature Dachshund
7. Border Collie
8. Miniature Schnauzer
9. American Staffordshire Terrier
10. Labrador

“Western Australia stands out with the inclusion of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier, both known for their loyalty and protective nature.”

These breeds are popular choices for active households looking for sturdy, reliable companions.

Northern Territory

1. Jack Russell Terrier
2. Miniature Dachshund
3. Boerboel
4. Border Collie
5. Great Dane
6. Miniature Schnauzer
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross
8. Australian Cattle Dog
9. Australian Shepherd
10. Brittany Spaniel

“Northern Territory’s list is unique, favouring working and hunting breeds that thrive in rugged environments”.

The Jack Russell Terrier tops the list, likely due to its high energy and adaptability. The presence of the Boerboel and Great Dane suggests that many Territorians appreciate large, protective breeds.

Why Do Preferences Differ Across States?

The variation in popular dog breeds across states can be attributed to several factors:

✔️ Climate: Warmer regions like Queensland and Northern Territory see more short-haired, heat-tolerant breeds.

✔️ Lifestyle: Urban areas like Sydney and Melbourne favour smaller, apartment-friendly breeds like the Cavoodle and French Bulldog.

✔️ Work & Rural Living: Regions with a strong agricultural presence, such as South Australia and Northern Territory, often prefer working dogs like the Border Collie and Australian Cattle Dog.

✔️ Trends & Hypoallergenic Needs: The ongoing rise of doodle breeds across all states reflects a growing demand for intelligent, low-shedding pets suited to allergy-prone owners.

The Rise of Doodle Breeds

One of the most notable trends in recent years has been the increasing popularity of doodle breeds: e.g. Cavoodles, Groodles, and Labradoodles.

“These breeds offer the best of both worlds: the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle, combined with the temperament and loyalty of breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Golden Retriever, and Labrador.”

As more Australians prioritise hypoallergenic dogs, it’s likely that these breeds will continue to dominate in the years to come.

Aussies Love Their Dogs!

Australia’s most popular dog breeds for 2025 showcase a mix of enduring favourites and rising stars.

“While the Cavoodle remains the undisputed leader, the continued success of traditional breeds like the Golden Retriever, Labrador, and Border Collie proves that Australians still have a deep love for loyal, intelligent companions,” Crighton says. 

“Meanwhile, the rise of doodle breeds reflects a shift toward allergy-friendly pets with friendly, trainable personalities.”

Whether you're a fan of small companion dogs, active working breeds, or the latest designer dogs, there's no denying that Australians take their love for dogs seriously.

* Data is compiled from Pet Insurance Australia’s new customer data, for pets born in 2024-2025

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th March 2025

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As we speak, seniors attending the free NSW Seniors Expo at the Sydney International Convention Centre (ICC) are being welcomed by loveable RSPCA NSW fur-bassador pups as we celebrate the affection and social support animals provide to our senior citizens.

RSPCA NSW will be at Booth 73 inside the NSW Seniors Expo today and tomorrow championing the power of animal companionship, which is associated with positive outcomes for older people, particularly in significantly reducing loneliness, which in older adults is associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes including cardiovascular disease, depression and accelerated mortality. 

Attendees can learn about initiatives geared towards seniors including volunteering opportunities and our seniors for seniors 50% discount on adoptions fees for Seniors Card or Senior Savers Card holders if they adopt a dog or cat from RSPCA NSW aged over eight years old. 

This heart-warming program also includes RSPCA NSW veterinary hospitals offering a 10% discount on all veterinary services for Seniors Card (and Senior Savers card) holders.   

Along with discounts on adoptions and veterinary treatments, this promotion provides adopters with access to our Home Ever After program. The RSPCA Home Ever After program is a tailored, future care plan for pets, ensuring that animal companions receive ongoing love and care should something happen to their owner. 

RSPCA NSW Gifts in Wills Manager, Helen Trussler is at the NSW Seniors Expo ready to detail with your audience about the wonderful experience at the Expo and everything RSPCA NSW can offer to our senior community members.

What information RSPCA NSW is providing at the festival:

✔️ Owning pets in your golden years with RSPCA NSW Home Ever After, making it worry free. 

✔️ Volunteering opportunities for seniors. 

✔️ How to support RSPCA NSW. 

✔️ Travelling with older pets. 

✔️ Community group days. 

✔️ Seniors for Seniors discount on pet adoptions and vet care.

RSPCA NSW at the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival Expo

When: Wednesday 12 March 2025 from 9:00am - 5:00pm and Thursday 13 March 2024 from 9:00am - 3:00pm.  

Where: International Convention Centre, Sydney (ICC) in Hall 4 – RSPCA NSW Booth 73

Meet: Helen Trussler – RSPCA NSW Gifts in Wills Manager 

More info at www.nsw.gov.au/arts-and-culture/seniors-festival/whats-on/nsw-seniors-festival-expo

MEDIA RELEASE, 12th March 2025

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Winners revealed for the inaugural GapOnly® veterinary awards, recognising outstanding achievement

GapOnly® celebrated industry excellence at an awards ceremony last week to reveal the category winners for the inaugural GapOnly® Veterinary Awards, including a standalone category to recognise female veterinarians, to coincide with International Women’s Day.

The GapOnly® Veterinary Awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and practices across the country who have positively impacted industry, community and patient care outcomes.

Last Friday night (07/03/25) over one hundred people from across the veterinary community came together at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) to recognise the outstanding achievements of individuals and practices within the veterinary field.

Australian satirist and comedian from ABC’s 7:30 program, Mark Humphries, hosted the event with an inspiring keynote speech from Sam Bloom, the subject of international best-selling book “Penguin Bloom” (which was also made into a film starring Naomi Watts).

The GapOnly® Veterinary Awards span four award categories, including a category for Woman Veterinarian of the Year to coincide with International Women’s Day.
Veterinarian and General Manager of GapOnly®, Dr Maria Neale, said GapOnly® was proud to host the industry event to recognise innovation and positive impact within the veterinary industry and broader community.

“It was an honour to bring together some of the brightest minds in the industry, and to network with, and celebrate the change-makers in our industry who are dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their people.

“With females representing nearly three quarters or 71% of the veterinarian workforce*, we wanted to acknowledge the dedication and contribution of female veterinarians with a standalone category.

“We received over one hundred submissions across the four categories, and the judging panel were truly impressed by the volume and high quality of work highlighted in the entries. It was a unique opportunity to recognise and celebrate the accolades of the finalists and winners last night,” Dr Neale said.

Winners of the 2025 GapOnly® Veterinary Awards: 

• Woman Vet of the Year: Dr Elizabeth Thrift (The Pet Specialists, Terrey Hills NSW)

• Vet Practice of the Year: Wagga Wagga Veterinary Hospital (Wagga Wagga, NSW)

• Team Member of the Year: Ashleigh McIntosh (Greencross Vets, Lawnton QLD)

• SafetyNet PetAssist™ Community Service Award: RSPCA NSW Hunter Veterinary Hospital (Hunter, NSW)

The judging criteria for each category was based on a range of factors, some of which include patient outcomes, client feedback, teamwork, collaboration and support for flexible work practices.

Visit the GapOnly® website for further details about the awards program: GOVA Home | GapOnly 

References:

* Jobs and Skills Australia, Australian government - Veterinarians | Jobs and Skills Australia

About GapOnly®:

Helping make veterinary care more accessible, GapOnly® is a new innovative payment solution which allows customers to claim on the spot, and just pay the gap (the difference between the vet’s invoice and the insurance claim benefit). All PetSure administered policies offer GapOnly® and it is available to customers from eligible pet insurance brands.

Disclaimer:

GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure). Insurance products are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure and promoted and distributed through their Authorised Representatives and distribution partners. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to decide if a product is right for you. PDS and Target Market Determination are available from the relevant partner’s website.

MEDIA RELEASE, 10th March 2025