For the Love of Pets: How the Petstock Foundation is Changing Valentine’s Day for Aussie Rescues

As February 14 approaches, the familiar scent of over-priced roses and the scramble for dinner reservations has begun. 

But for a growing number of Australians, the most important "date" of the night doesn't require a suit or a dress—just a leash and perhaps a handful of treats. In 2026, the rise of "Fur-lentine’s Day" is more than just a social media trend; it’s a reflection of the deepening bond between Aussies and their companions.

However, this year feels different. With the cost of living continuing to bite, many of us are looking for ways to celebrate love without the high-end price tag, while simultaneously looking for ways to give back to a community that is feeling the pinch. 

Enter the Petstock Foundation, which is offering a way to spoil your pet for under $15 whilst ensuring 100% of the profits go directly to animals and families in need.

The Shift Toward Purposeful Gifting

We’ve all seen the "charity" hooks where a tiny percentage of a sale goes to a cause. What makes this year’s Petstock Foundation range stand out—and why it’s worth the space in your shopping basket this weekend —is the transparency. 

The business covers all operating costs, meaning every cent of profit from their Valentine’s range is funnelled into charitable projects. Since 2007, this initiative has raised over $14 million and found homes for 41,000 rescue pets.

In a climate where every dollar counts, knowing that a $14.99 plush toy translates into real-world support for rescue groups and animal welfare programs makes the act of gifting feel significantly less indulgent and far more impactful.

For the Active and the Anxious: The Gift Guide

If you’re looking to treat your pet, the range focuses on two main categories: comfort and mental stimulation.

• The Iconic Buddy: Back by popular demand, the Original Buddy Plush Toy ($14.97) is the Foundation’s mascot. 

It’s a multi-sensory experience for dogs, featuring a soft plush outer for nap-time snuggles, crinkle material to pique their interest, and the ever-essential squeaker. Notably, it’s stuffed with 100% post-consumer recycled polyester fibre, ticking the sustainability box.

• Aussie Icons: Perhaps the most "Australian" way to celebrate is through the Native Plush Toy range ($14.99). 

Whether it’s the cuddly Wombat, the quirky Platypus, or the classic Kangaroo, these toys are designed with recycled PET bottle filling. 

They serve as a tiny, squeaky tribute to our unique local fauna while the funds help protect domestic pets nationwide.

• The Science of Soothing: For the "brainy pups" or those who get a bit jittery during the summer storm season, the Boredom Buster Lick Mats ($11.47) are a standout.

Available in Hexagon and Square varieties, these BPA-free mats are designed to promote licking, which releases endorphins in dogs and cats, helping them stay calm. They also double as a dental aid, cleaning the tongue and improving breath.

Beyond the Squeak: How to Support Year-Round

A squeaky toy is a fun treat, but the Petstock Foundation is also highlighting the practical ways we can show up for our local shelters. Beyond the checkout, there are plenty of ways to help the rescue community that don’t cost a cent.

✔️ Fostering and Volunteering: Rescue groups across the country are at capacity. Providing a temporary home or even just an afternoon of your time can be the difference between a pet thriving or languishing in a shelter.

✔️ Supply Donations: Before throwing out old blankets or towels, check with your local rescue. Most are in constant need of essentials to keep sheltered animals comfortable.

✔️ Direct Giving: If you’re not in the market for a toy, you can donate directly at any Petstock counter or online. Because the business covers the overheads, 100% of your donation reaches the front lines.

A Love That Gives Back

Valentine’s Day is often criticised for its fleeting nature—flowers wilt and chocolates are eaten. But by pivoting to a gift that supports animal welfare, Australians can create a legacy of care. Whether it’s a lick mat to soothe an anxious rescue or a plush wombat for a tireless puppy, these "Acts of Love" extend far beyond the living room floor.

This February, let’s make it about the bond that never asks for anything but a belly rub and a bit of your time.

A bond that lasts a lifetime: National Pet Adoption Month is just one of the many ways
the Petstock Foundation helps pets and people thrive together.
Every act of love this Valentine's Day helps fund these life-changing moments.

 

Find the Petstock Foundation range at Petstock stores nationally or online at petstock.com.au

Why quality cover matters more than ever in Australia’s crowded insurance market

As veterinary costs continue to rise across Australia, a wave of new insurance providers is entering the market. Many promote low-cost “budget” policies aimed at affordability—but while more choice sounds good, it can leave pet owners with inappropriate cover if decisions are based on price alone.

Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia, says the surge of providers has made it harder to understand true value.

“We’re seeing more insurers launch with attractive premiums, which is understandable given current cost-of-living pressures,” says Crighton. 

“But when a pet needs urgent surgery, advanced diagnostics or long-term treatment, the real test of a policy is what it pays out, how quickly it pays, and whether there are any exclusions or sub-limits.”

The Quality Checklist: Looking Beyond the Premium

To help owners navigate the confusion, Pet Insurance Australia recommends looking for these five pillars of quality:

✔️ Appropriate Cover (Not Just a Low Price): A cheaper policy may have hidden sub-limits or high out-of-pocket costs. Ensure the policy clearly outlines waiting periods and exclusions.

✔️ Strong Limits & Flexible Benefits: High annual limits are your best defence against major emergencies. While higher limits can increase the premium, they provide the protection needed for surgery and ongoing conditions.

✔️ Proven Claims Experience: Look for a track record. Insurers that share real-life customer stories provide insight into how they perform when it matters most.

✔️ Australian-Owned & Locally Experienced: Local experts understand the real-world treatment pathways and costs specific to the Australian veterinary landscape.

✔️ Ease of Claiming: In an emotional crisis, you need simplicity. Look for providers offering on-the-spot claiming at participating clinics to reduce financial stress.

Peace of Mind, Not Surprises

Ultimately, insurance is about certainty. As Crighton puts it: 

“Pet insurance isn’t something you want to question when you’re sitting in a vet clinic facing a tough decision.”

“Quality cover means knowing your policy will support you for those unexpected bills.”

Mandatory Legal Information

Note: Policy T&Cs, limits, exclusions, waiting periods and excess may apply.

Disclaimer: Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436), arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183) and promoted by Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233). Policies entered into on or after 8 May 2023 are issued by PetSure and promoted by PIA. Any advice is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives or needs. Please consider the PDS and Target Market Determination (TMD) at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au before making a decision.

Related Story: 

The Reality of Australia’s Vet Crisis New 2026 data reveals that 41% of Aussie pet owners are overwhelmed by rising vet bills. Read how the 'preparedness gap' is changing how we care for our dogs.

Assistance Dogs Australia needs Sydney volunteers to help turn pups into heroes

Have you ever looked at a puppy and thought, “You’re destined for greatness”? If you live within 100km of Sydney, you have a unique opportunity to turn that thought into a reality.

Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) is calling on residents to become full-time puppy volunteers. This isn’t just about fostering; it’s about becoming a Dog Care Champion—the foundational pillar for a dog that will eventually provide independence to an Australian living with a physical disability, a child or family with autism, or someone with post-traumatic stress disorder.

The Role: From Playtime to Purpose

As a volunteer, you’ll provide a safe, stable, and loving home for a puppy from roughly 8-18 weeks of age until they are about 15 months old. Your mission is to play a vital role in the puppy’s early development, socialisation, and basic training before the dog progresses into formal training.

“Our volunteers play a vital role in every Assistance Dog journey. By opening their homes and their lives to a puppy, they help shape calm, confident dogs that will one day provide independence and support to someone who truly needs it,” says ADA Volunteer Program Manager, Kristie Worthy.

A future hero in the making. Your job? Simply providing the love and stability they need
to grow into a calm, confident companion.

Is This You?

Because these future heroes shouldn’t be left alone for long periods, this full-time volunteer role is best suited to people who work from home, are retired, or have flexible schedules.

While prior experience with dogs is helpful, it is not essential.

No Cost, All Reward

One of the best parts of the ADA program? Your heart is the only thing you have to invest. Assistance Dogs Australia provides all food, veterinary care, equipment, and ongoing training support.

As Mrs. Worthy notes:

“Assistance Dogs change lives, but they don’t get there on their own. Every Assistance Dog starts out as a puppy, and every puppy needs a dedicated volunteer to guide them through those critical early months.”

You’re never on this journey alone.
From the first 'sit' to the final graduation, ADA’s trainers are with you every step of the way.

How to Apply

Ready to trade a little bit of your time for a lifetime of impact?

• Location: Within 100km of Sydney.

• Register your interest: assistancedogs.org.au/volunteer

Ruff and Ready: Australia’s Muddiest Dog Event Returns to the Yarra Valley

Australia’s largest cross-country event for dogs and their humans is back: bigger, muddier, and set to take on the Yarra Valley. 

Adventure Dog returns on Sunday 12 April 2026, bringing Australia’s most loved canine challenge back to Wandin Park Estate in Victoria.

The Challenge

Hosted by Animal Aid, the event sees dog lovers and their four-legged teammates tackle a 4km course featuring 25 obstacles, water crossings, and plenty of mud. Whether you choose to run, jog, or walk, the focus is firmly on teamwork and fun, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

A ball at every turn: Large breeds like French Mastiffs and Swiss Shepherds prove that Adventure Dog is just as much about play as it is about the mud.

Now in its eighth year, Adventure Dog has raised more than $500,000 for animals in need. More than 1,000 dog-and-human teams are expected to transform Wandin Park Estate into a vibrant hub of community energy.

Purpose Behind the Paws

Adventure Dog is more than just a physical challenge. Funds raised directly support Animal Aid’s mission to end companion animal homelessness. These vital funds provide:

✔️ Emergency shelter and care

✔️ Veterinary treatment

✔️ Rehabilitation and rehoming services

Every muddy pawprint on the course helps another animal find safety and a "first-rate second chance."

“Adventure Dog is joy, mess and purpose rolled into one,” says Animal Aid CEO Mark Menze.

“People end up covered in mud and leave knowing they’ve helped change an animal’s life. That’s why this event keeps growing.”

Teamwork makes the dream work: Participants of all ages and fitness levels tackle the log obstacles together to raise funds for Animal Aid.

Event Details & Registration

Participants can enter individually or as part of a team with friends, family, or colleagues. Animal Aid is also calling for volunteers to help deliver this landmark event.

• When: Sunday 12 April 2026

• Where: Wandin Park Estate, 305 Victoria Rd, Wandin North VIC

• Who: Participants aged 12+ and dogs 12 months and older

• Registrations: $75 per human

Small but mighty: Whether you're a Jack Russell or a Giant Breed, every dog (and human!) gets to experience the thrill of the 'Canine Crawl'.

Sign Up at adventure-dog-2026.raiselysite.com

About Animal Aid

Animal Aid is a not-for-profit animal welfare organisation that has been helping animals in need for over 70 years. Relying on community support and fundraising, they provide shelter, veterinary treatment, and rehoming services to thousands of animals every year. 

Visit: www.animalaid.org.au | Address: 35 Killara Road, Coldstream VIC

Follow the Journey: 📘 Facebook: @VictorianAnimalAid | 📸 Instagram: @animalaid.vic | 🎥 TikTok: @animalaid.vic

No More "Shrink-to-Fit": The Melbourne Label Redesigning the Small Breed Aesthetic

Let’s be honest: the pet industry has a bit of a "small dog" problem. For years, if you owned a petite breed, your options were usually limited to "shrunken-down" versions of big-dog gear or flimsy, brightly coloured nylon that felt more like a toy than a tool. 

We’ve all seen it—a tiny Poodle or Dachshund weighed down by a clunky harness that looks like they’re prepping for a joust in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, just to go get a puppuccino!

Melbourne-born brand MIA COOSH is officially changing the narrative. They’ve realised that our dogs aren’t just pets; they’re our walking partners and coffee-date companions. And frankly, the old "park basics" just aren't cutting it anymore.

Enter MIA COOSH, the Melbourne-born brand proving that the most stylish matte gold hardware this season belongs to our four-legged friends.

Engineering, Not Just Aesthetics

The team behind MIA COOSH spent over a year redesigning walkwear from the ground up, using their own toy Poodle, Mia, as the ultimate real-world tester. They didn't just make things smaller; they re-engineered them for a different centre of gravity.

• The Weight Factor: By using narrower straps and lightweight matte gold hardware, they’ve ensured that extra-small to medium dogs can move freely without feeling like they’re dragging an anchor.

• The Ergonomic H-Frame: Designed to sit properly on smaller ribcages, this harness eliminates the common rubbing and restricted shoulder movement that many "scaled-down" brands ignore.

• The "Winter Coat" Fix: One of the smartest features is a reversible back plate. It allows you to move the D-ring closer to the neck—a total game-changer for a perfect fit when your dog is wearing a knitted sweater or a raincoat.

Built for the Australian Elements

Whether you're navigating the morning rush past Parliament Station or catching a tram to your favourite dog-friendly cafe, this gear is built for the urban reality of an Australian city walk.

While the "quiet luxury" palette (think Emerald Green, Dark Chocolate, and Vanilla Cream) looks high-end, the materials are surprisingly rugged. Every piece is crafted from premium vegan microfibre leather.

Unlike traditional leather or cheap plastic alternatives, this material is non-porous. It won't absorb that dreaded "wet dog" smell, and it’s virtually indestructible—you can simply wipe it clean after a muddy trip to the park and it looks brand new.

The "New Luxe" is Cruelty-Free

One of the most striking things about MIA COOSH is their unapologetic philosophy:

"Animals shouldn't wear animals."

For a generation of owners who have embraced "Slow Fashion" in their own closets, the disconnect in the pet industry has been glaring. MIA COOSH uses a premium vegan microfibre leather that is a world away from the "plastic-y" PU leathers of the past.

It’s a micro-matrix material that mimics the buttery texture of luxury hide but is built for the reality of a dog's life. 

Walking with Heart

It’s not just about the materials, though. MIA COOSH has built a "giving back" model into their DNA. A portion of every single order goes directly to registered Australian animal rescues to help fund the care, rehabilitation, and rehoming of dogs in need. Knowing that your dog's new walk set is helping another pup find their forever home makes the investment feel like a contribution, not just a purchase.

The Verdict: If you’re looking for gear that works as hard as it looks—and actually fits a smaller frame without the "Ashford Meadow tournament" vibes—MIA COOSH is the local discovery we've been waiting for.

The MIA COOSH Highlights:

• Best For: Extra-small to medium breeds (Toy Poodles, Frenchies, Dachshunds, etc.)

• Key Features: Lightweight matte gold hardware, H-frame ergonomics, and reversible back straps.

• Sustainability: Reusable cotton packaging + support for Aussie rescues.

• The Palette: 7 shades including Emerald Green, Dark Chocolate, Caramel Brown, Navy Blue, Rouge Red, Vanilla Cream and Blush Pink.

Price & Where to Buy

RRP: $319.00 for Signature Walk Sets (4-piece); Individual items from $69.00.

Discover the collection at miacoosh.com and stay updated on their latest rescue initiatives via Facebook and Instagram @miacoosh.

Join the Geelong Community for a Scenic Charity Dog Walk in Support of Vulnerable Animals

There is nothing quite like the sight of hundreds of happy dogs wagging their tails in unison—especially when it’s for a great cause. Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) is thrilled to announce the return of the PAWS for GAWS Charity Dog Walk!

Whether you have a furry best friend by your side or just want to support local animals in need, this community event is the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, 1 March 2026

• Location: Eastern Park BBQ Area, East Geelong

• Time: Registrations at 9:00 AM | Walk starts at 10:00 AM

• The Route: A relaxed 4km stroll along the picturesque Geelong Waterfront.

Walking for a Second Chance

Every step taken along the waterfront helps provide a brighter future for the lost, surrendered, and stray animals in the Geelong region. GAWS CEO Helen Cocks notes that the impact of this event stretches far beyond just one day of exercise:

“As a community, when we walk together for a cause we all care deeply about, the impact goes far beyond one beautiful day,” Ms Cocks said. 

“PAWS for GAWS is not just about dogs on leashes - it’s about the thousands of animals in need of care, shelter and a second chance.”

“The support we receive through this charity dog walk directly translates into care, medical treatment and brighter futures for the animals in our shelter. We are deeply grateful for our community.”

More Than Just a Walk

After the 4km stroll, the festivities continue at the event hub! 

The day features:

• The Pooch Parade: Show off your pup in categories like Best Dressed, Waggiest Tail, and Best Trick.

• Entertainment: Family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and plenty of prizes.

• Food & Coffee: Grab a brew and a bite from our lively community stalls.

• Official Merchandise: Pick up some GAWS gear to support the cause.

Why Your Support Matters

As a not-for-profit organisation, GAWS relies entirely on the generosity of the community. Last financial year, more than 3,100 animals arrived at the shelter needing care. With costs exceeding $65 a day to care for a single animal, every registration fee and donation makes a vital difference in providing shelter, veterinary support, and rehabilitation.

How to Register

Registrations are officially open! Every participant receives a PAWS for GAWS branded dog bandana and a bumper sticker.

For more details on the registration process, ticket types, or bringing multiple dogs, please visit the official FAQs page before signing up.

Ready to join the pack? 

Visit pawsforgaws.org.au to register or to support their fundraising efforts.

About Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS)

The Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) is a leading animal welfare organisation dedicated to providing a safe haven for lost, abandoned, and surrendered animals. As a community-focused not-for-profit, GAWS operates a high-standard shelter and veterinary clinic, ensuring every animal receives the medical attention, behavioural rehabilitation, and love they need while they wait for their forever homes.

With a mission to promote responsible pet ownership and the humane treatment of all animals, GAWS serves as a vital resource for the Greater Geelong region, rehoming thousands of pets each year thanks to the unwavering support of local volunteers and donors.