Pets Over Pay – New survey reveals a third of Australians would take a pay cut to work alongside pets

A national survey has found that almost a third (31%) of Australians would take a pay cut to work in a pet-friendly environment, highlighting the depth of our love for our animals.

Conducted by Australia’s leading pet sitting platform PetCloud, the survey also found that age played a major role in the desire to work with pets, with millennials the most eager.

More than half (54%) of respondents aged 18-24 and nearly half (48%) aged 25-34 said they would take a pay cut to be able to work alongside their animals.

PetCloud Founder and CEO Deb Morrison said the results underpin how important pets are.

“We are living in tight economic times with everything from petrol to power and rent to rates on the rise, so when eight million Australians say they are willing to take a pay cut for the privilege of working alongside their pets, employers should take note,” Ms Morrison said.

“Having a dog nearby is a great reminder to take a break and go for a walk or to step away from the task at hand to enjoy a pat and some playtime – all of which can help prevent stress, overworking and burnout.”

Alex Hyndman Hill from RSPCA Queensland said there were positive benefits for pets too.

“We’d love to see more Australian businesses encourage office pets. As long as the right measures are in place, having an office dog can benefit employees and their furry friends. It can also prove to be the deciding factor for someone wanting to adopt a dog from the thousands of pups without homes, as it relieves the stress of leaving an animal alone all day,” she said.

This Friday (June 21) is ‘Take Your Dog to Work Day’ when employers all over the world open their businesses to pets to promote the benefits of pet ownership and in turn, encourage animal adoption.

Part owned by RSPCA Queensland, Ms Morrison said PetCloud proudly promoted any initiatives which encourage animal adoption and celebrate the role that pets play in our lives.

“Until more workplaces become pet-friendly, Australian workers are reminded that PetCloud offers doggy day care, dog walking, house visits and pet sitting so, no matter what job they do, they can have a pet and know that it’s being cared for while they’re at work or away on a work trip,” she said.

Other key findings from the survey include:

✔️Australian women (36%) were more likely than men (27%) to take a pay cut to work with pets
✔️ Half (50%) of Northern Territory respondents and 37 per cent of Western Australians said they would choose pets over pay
✔️ Only 18 per cent of ACT residents said they would take a pay cut to work alongside pets
✔️ New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania all sat around 30 per cent, in line with the national average
✔️ Only 15 per cent of those aged 55-64 said they would take a pay cut to work in a pet-friendly environment

For more information on PetCloud, visit www.petcloud.com.au

MEDIA RELEASE, 17th June 2019

Pet-friendly rental laws spur on changes to travel industry ...

The trend of accommodating furry family members is spreading across the travel and holiday industry with Qantas reporting a 10 per cent increase in travellers wanting to take their pets with them on holidays. [1]

After Victoria passed laws last year to give every tenant the right to keep a pet in their home, and with Queensland and the ACT following suit with similar changes this year,[2] it’s clear that Australian attitudes are changing and many industries are feeling it – with customers no longer willing to compromise and leave their pets out of the picture. 

Caravan and holiday parks are also noticing increased enquiries about pet-friendly accommodation options from the growing number of Australians who choose not to leave their furry family members at home when going on holidays. 

Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut Resort Manager Richard Yazbek said he had noticed a substantial demand for pet-friendly accommodation options, which meant that it was vital to introduce big changes to the popular holiday destination. 

“When Ingenia Holidays acquired the Cairns Coconut resort in 2016 it didn’t allow pets,” he said. 

“But after being inundated with enquiries from guests wanting to bring their pets on holiday, we made all camp sites pet-friendly, introduced two pet-friendly cabins and recently added a dog agility park for guests to entertain and exercise their dogs while on holidays. 

 Barry (the Border Collie) and Buddy and Bella (the Terriers) are making full use of the new dog agility park

“With our two pet-friendly cabins constantly booked out, we’re looking to grow the park and build additional cabins in the next few years – with the view to making most of these pet-friendly – and maybe even add a ‘doggy wading pool’ sometime down the track,” Mr Yazbek said.

With Australians having some of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world – almost two thirds of people owning a pet [3] – it’s no surprise businesses are seeing this trend.

“Since becoming a pet-friendly resort, we have seen a 15 per cent increase in caravan site bookings, with many of these guests being grey nomads who often have a dog or cat in tow,” Mr Yazbek said.

“We’ve also seen growth in demand over the non-peak times, which we can largely attribute to the pet-friendly park changes.

“Here at Cairns Coconut, it’s our goal is to accommodate the whole family so that they can create long lasting memories – and this often includes a much-loved family pet.

“As many of our staff here are animal lovers, we get great satisfaction seeing people coming and enjoying holidays with their pets, and we think that the animals enjoy the holiday just as much as the people!”

1 Financial Review, 2018, Pet-friendly hotels are on the rise for holidays
2 Domain, 2019, How to rent if you have pets
3 RSPCA, 2016, How many pets are there in Australia?

To secure your holiday at an Ingenia Holidays park around Australia, visit www.ingeniaholidays.com.au or phone their bookings team on 1300 790 758.

About Ingenia Holidays

Ingenia Holidays believes in creating memories and positive experiences for all its guests. Offering accommodation in prime waterfront locations, in vineyard settings and on major transit routes.

Ingenia Holidays provides a variety of caravan, camping and cabin accommodation and has parks spread throughout coastal and inland New South Wales and Queensland.

Ingenia Holidays is the ideal place for a short break, stop over or holiday. Relaxing and fun, Ingenia Holidays offer a welcoming environment, where children and families are catered for in a safe and social community.

MEDIA RELEASE, 19th June 2019

Does your dog work harder than the rest?

Does your dog have what it takes to be crowned Australia's hardest working dog? Put it to the test by nominating it for the 2019 Cobber Working Dog Challenge.

No matter the breed or work they do, owners of working dogs are encouraged to nominate their canine co-workers. Two dogs from each Australian state will be selected from the nominations to compete in the fourth annual Cobber Challenge.

The Cobber Challenge tracks the dogs' work over a three week period; this year from Monday 12 August to Sunday 1 September.

Each of the 12 competing dogs will wear a GPS collar to track how hard they work in their natural environment. The competitors will be scored based on distance, speed and duration of work per day. Their data will be uploaded daily, so people can follow the performance of individual dogs, as well as the best performing state. Points will be calculated based on this information to crown the 2019 Cobber Challenge champion.

Boof, a Kelpie that works on a mixed farm in south-west Victoria, took out the title last year (lead image).

Then six-year-old, Boof had a late dash of activity to edge out the competition in the last days of 2018 Cobber Challenge. Over the three weeks, Boof ran over 630km at an average of 10.62km/h, totals that surprised owner Henry Lawrence.

"I knew he'd do a lot, but in the last week, when work picked up, he piled on the kilometres. One morning when we were shifting a mob, he covered around 40km, and then another time he clocked almost 70km for the day," said Henry.

He said it was fortunate Boof was picked to compete last year, because in recent months, Boof's been forced to slow down.

"Boof broke his leg. He was trodden on by a bull, but X-rays show it's healing well," said Henry. "Boof will go into a more casual, part-time role in the team when he's recovered. He's earned it."

Henry works with three other dogs, including one of Boof's daughters, Grace, who is showing great potential. Henry thinks she'll be his next main dog, but she has a lot to live up to.

"Boof's a pretty great dog - he can work a mob of sheep through a mob of cattle or vice versa or go 'round them both if I want, he just seems to know what I'm after so it's pretty special."

Ian Moore, Group Marketing Manager of Ridley which produces Cobber, said his team was excited to open the nominations for another year and they couldn't wait to see the entries.

"The Cobber Challenge celebrates Australian working dogs that are tough, resilient, smart and dedicated," Ian said.

"Working dogs are essential members of farming teams thanks to their natural instincts to herd and work hard. Farmers tell me a good dog can do the work of at least two or three people."

Nominations will be open for three weeks from today (Monday 17 June) to Sunday 7 July.

To nominate your working dog, visit www.cobberchallenge.com.au 

MEDIA RELEASE, 17th June 2019

If you're trying to shake off the winter blues, why not head to the Pups, Plants + Pizza pop-up this Saturday 22nd June at the beautiful The Borrowed Nursery on the Gold Coast.

“We know that pup parents want more fun and different events to share with their fur-kids, so we thought we’d hold something really cool in this beautiful local space,” says Jenna Schroeder, owner of Hugo’s Ice Creamery.

Housed in an old mechanic workshop The Borrowed Nursery contrasts lush greenery against the industrial features of its surroundings.

You can bring your pup, grab a delicious pizza, check out the pawsome plants as well as some of the Gold Coast’s favourite doggie businesses including:

✔️ Doggie ice cream by Hugo’s Ice Creamery
✔️ Collars, leads and harnesses by Dizzy Dog Collars
✔️ Bandanas by Frankie & Emmett
✔️ Natural products and doggy daycare by Love Dogz
✔️ Healthy treats by Pluto and Ally Treatery
✔️ Cooling pet vests and shirts by Wilko Pet Care
✔️ Bags and other human accessories by Molly and Lola Co

Photo Credit (and lead image): Tails of Time Pet Photography

✔️ Mini doggie photo sessions by Tails of Time Pet Photography  - don't forget to pre-book as spots are limited!
✔️ and of course pizzas by Napizzetta

What: Pups, Plants & Pizza pop-up

When: Saturday 22nd June 2019, from 11:00 am to 2:00pm

Where: The Borrowed Nursery, 44 Cronulla Ave, Mermaid Beach

Cost: Free

For the latest details, please visit this Event's Facebook Page.

The 2019 Top Dog Film Festival will kick off on July 17 in Brisbane before touring Australia during July and August for the delight of dog lovers!

This screening features over 2 hours of the most inspirational, heartwarming and entertaining films related to dogs and their human companions from independent film makers around the globe. Including a carefully curated selection of films of varying lengths and styles covering topics relevant to dogs and dog lovers.

The Top Dog Film Festival was launched in 2017 by Adventure Reels to showcase the incredible bond between dogs and their people through independent films. In the past, the lineup has featured films about dog-powered sports, dogs in space, dogs hiking through the desert, senior dogs, search and rescue dogs and more.

Get your tickets before they all sell out – you’d be barking mad to miss it. 

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Canberra
Tuesday 30th July 2019, 7:00pm – 9:30pm
Wednesday 31st July 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
National Film & Sound Archives
McCoy Circuit, Acton, ACT, 2601

NEW SOUTH WALES 

Albury
Thursday 22nd August 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Albury Entertainment Centre
Theatrette 525 Swift St, Albury, NSW

Avoca Beach
Friday 16th August 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Avoca Beach Picture Theatre
69 Avoca Drive, Avoca Beach

Byron Bay
Sunday 28th July 2019, 2:00pm - 4:300pm
The Byron Theatre
69 Jonson St, Byron Bay, NSW, 2481

Katoomba
Tuesday 30th July 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
United Cinemas
225 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba

Newcastle
Saturday 3rd August 2019, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Kotara Event Cinemas Westfield
Kotara Rooftop Cnr Northcott Dr & Park Ave, Kotara

Sydney East

Sunday 18th August 2019, 2:00pm – 4:30pm
Randwick Ritz
45 St Pauls St, Randwick

Sydney North
Sunday 11th August 2019, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Hayden Orpheum
380 Military Rd, Cremorne

Wagga Wagga
Tuesday 20th August 2019, 6:30pm - 9:00pm
Forum 6 Cinema
77 Trail St, Wagga Wagga

Wollongong
Thursday 1st August 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Anita's Theatre
264-270 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Thirroul, NSW, 2515

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Alice Springs

Saturday 24th August 2019, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Araluen Arts Centre
61 Larapinta Dr, Araluen NT 0870

Darwin
Tuesday 13th August 2019, from 7:30pm - 10:00pm
Deckchair Cinema
Jervois Rd, Darwin

QUEENSLAND

Brisbane
Wednesday 17th July 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Schonell Cinema
Bld 22, Union Complex, Union Road, 
University of Queensland, St Lucia

Cairns
Saturday 27th July 2019, 2:30pm - 4:45pm AND 

Saturday 27th July 2019, 7:00pm - 9:15pm 
Cairns Performing Arts Centre
9-11 Florence St, Cairns City QLD 4870

Gold Coast
Saturday 27th July 2019, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
HOTA: Home Of The Arts
135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise

Noosa
Saturday 10th August 2019, 3:00pm - 5:15pm
The J
60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads

Townsville
TBA soon

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Adelaide
Saturday 3rd August 2019, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
The Capri Cinema
141 Goodwood Rd, Goodwood

TASMANIA

Hobart
Saturday 17th August 2019, 2:30pm – 5:00pm
Farrall Centre, The Friends School
395 Argyle St, North Hobart TAS 7002

Launceston
Friday 16th August 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Tramsheds
4 Invermay Rd, Launceston

VICTORIA

Ballarat
Thursday 22nd August 2019, 6:30pm to 9:00pm
Regent Cinema 
49 Lydiard St N, Ballarat

Melbourne Crown
Tuesday 31st July 2019, 6:30pm - 9:00m
Crown Melbourne
8 Whiteman St, Southbank

Melbourne - St Kilda
Wednesday 7th August 2019, 7:15pm - 10:00pm
Astor Theatre
1 Chapel St & Dandenong Rd, St Kilda

Rosebud
Sunday 11th August 2019, from 2:30pm - 5pm
Peninsula Cinemas 
Rosebud Parade, Rosebud

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Perth
Saturday 27th July 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
State Theatre Centre of WA
cnr William & Roe Sts, Northbridge

To book your tickets, please visit topdogfilmfestival.com.au/tickets/

Most of us have lots of beautiful and happy photos of our pets, but nothing compares to the feeling of holding a cushion that has been made with fur from your beloved pet. 

Dalia, a weaver of Saori (a Japanese style of weaving), uses her unique skill by taking fur collected from animals made into yarn, and intuitively weaves a unique creation of your beloved pet.

The best time to collect the fur is now, when your precious pet is energetic, healthy and happy.

The second best time is when your pet is getting older. You realise that time is running out and a uniquely crafted pet fur cushion will be a beautiful keepsake.

Here is what one of Dalia’s many clients wrote “My Poodle Bella was a member of the family, a constant companion, healer and faithful guardian. She was there for me during my challenging emotional times.” Carol went on to say, she is so grateful that now she has a tangible and comforting cushion that supports and reinforces the memories of her precious pet.

Understanding fellow animal lovers would enjoy her tenderly crafted cushions, Dalia takes great care to obtain the chosen fibre, collecting sustainably from gently combed and groomed pets, a positive experience for all our furry friends.

The inspiration and fibre for Dalia’s first cushion came from her own bunnies and dog. Since then, Dalia has used unusual fibres such as Samoyed, black Poodle and Angora rabbit, combined with silks and cottons in stunning colours. Now she makes cushions from all types of animals that have the required length of fur for spinning.

The love of animals and weaving has been the inspiration for Dalia to create beautiful, personalised and unique cushions, a comforting keepsake that you’ll cherish forever.

For more information on how to have your pet immortalised in a cushion, please contact Dalia via her website at www.loveofweaving.com.au 

You can follow Love of Weaving on Facebook at www.facebook.com/loveofweaving or Instagram at www.instagram.com/loveofweaving/

MEDIA RELEASE, 10th June 2019

Don’t let your best mate suffer: new ancient spice turmeric supplement is helping deliver a new trick for old dogs

The healing and restorative powers of turmeric have been known for centuries but one Sydney businessman has taken the wonder spice to a new level by bringing to market a natural treatment to assist arthritic dogs become more active. 

Sam Hunter is the brainchild behind K9 Health, a Sydney-based company which has brought turmeric based supplement CurcuPet-K9 down under to help the old dogs of Australia better cope with the pain of osteoarthritis.

The product - the first natural pill of its kind - combines the herbal powers of curcumin (from turmeric) and soy lecithin. Although it’s only been on the market locally for a few months, dog owners are already reporting outstanding results.

“We’ve had case studies of dogs which were virtually immobile being able to run up and down stairs after taking our turmeric pills. Owners have told me the product has literally been life changing for their dogs,” said Mr Hunter. 

Founder Sam Hunter with Middy, his 12-year old Jack Russell Terrier

The new easily digestible capsules are aimed at replacing traditional drugs for senior dogs suffering from osteoarthritis, developed naturally through old age and wear and tear. 

Mr Hunter discovered this natural remedy when he noticed pet owners in the UK were starting to take it upon themselves to give their pets human purposed turmeric. Through his desire for wanting to help man’s best friend, Hunter developed the supplement Australians can now access.

“Despite vets often prescribing senior dogs anti-inflammatory medication, I wanted Australian dog owners to be able to access a natural remedy with proven results, so I developed CurcuPet-K9 in an effort to make this possible,” Mr Hunter said.

“Through my own research I saw pet owners in the UK administering turmeric intended for humans to their pets and were seeing great results, so I created an Australian-first product with the correct dosage for dogs. Since it is thirty times more absorbable than standard turmeric and tested locally in Sydney, pet owners can be guaranteed a local product to help their furry friends in their old age,” he said.

Reba, 14-year old Cattle Dog with her owner Ann from Sydney
who have seen excellent results from using CurcuPet-K9 

Dr. Andrew Miller of Galston Veterinary Clinic stands by CurcuPet-K9, saying that it needs to be considered as an alternative treatment for dogs with arthritis. 

“Dogs with arthritis often suffer from chronic pain, have difficulty getting up, have reduced mobility and are generally lethargic. Vets tend to treat dogs suffering from chronic arthritis with non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and whilst these can be beneficial, long term use may be associated with secondary kidney and gastro-intestinal side effects, so to avoid this, a natural remedy is preferred.

“During my twenty five years in the vet industry, I have never seen a natural product that relieves osteoarthritis like this. 

CurcuPet-K9 with its natural anti-inflammatory effects should definitely be considered as an alternative treatment for dogs with arthritis,” said Dr Miller.

CurcuPet-K9 contains 50mg of Curcuma Phospholipid Complex, a combination of curcumin (from turmeric) and soy lecithin. It is:

 ✔️ 30x more absorbable than standard turmeric tablets 
 ✔️ Scientifically researched for joint health 
 ✔️ Suitable for dogs of all sizes, ages and breeds 

Price & Where to Buy

RRP: $25.95 (includes free shipping) at www.k9health.com.au

For more information on CurcuPet-K9, please visit www.k9health.com.au.

About CurcuPet-K9 

CURCUPET-K9 has been scientifically formulated to improve joint mobility and flexibility for dogs. These small, flavourless tablets are simple to conceal in are food and are easy to absorb. CURCUPET-K9 helps to relieve joint pain and problems. The formulation has been researched amongst dogs diagnosed with arthritis. Whether you have an old or a young and active pet, the properties of this clinically researched supplement can help to maintain healthy joints.

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th June 2019

PetCloud Launches Search for Australia’s Busiest Pet Parent ...

In the lead up to the RSPCA’s annual Gold Coast Pet Expo, Australia’s leading pet sitting platform PetCloud is on the prowl for the nation’s busiest pet parent.

“Our nation has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with around two thirds of Aussie households home to a pet of some kind and with that number rising to more than 33 million* in recent years, there are more pets than people in Australia. 

That means there are a lot of busy pet parents working like a dog to take care of their pets, often in addition to a demanding full time job,” PetCloud Founder and CEO Deb Morrison said. 

“Being a responsible pet owner is a big job and while most Australian households are home to a dog or a cat, we know there are some pet parents out there who have opened their homes and hearts to a big family of furry, feathered and scaly friends, all in the name of love.

“Whether they’re caring for cats or camels, pigs or parrots, finches or fish, or lots of dogs, we want to find Australia’s busiest and hardest-working pet parent so we can offer them the chance to ‘paws’ and have a well-deserved break.”

Hard-working pet parents* are invited to submit a photo of their busy pet life at https://www.petcloud.com.au/blog/Pet-Owner-Prize-Giveaway-June2019-PetCloud for the chance to win a luxury stay for two at QT Hotel Surfers Paradise including parking and breakfast, a $100 Virgin Australia flight voucher, plus a $50 PetCloud pet sitting voucher to ensure their pets are cared for while they’re away. Entries close June 30, 2019. 
* you must be a Registered Pet Owner on PetCloud to enter.

Like an Airbnb for pets, PetCloud, which is part owned by RSPCA Queensland, is a trusted online community where pet owners can search, connect and easily book police-checked, trained and insured pet sitters, dog walkers and even pet taxis across Australia. 

Now in its 17th year, the RSPCA’s Gold Coast Pet Expo has grown into a must-attend event for animal lovers to get together and celebrate their love of pets.

PetCloud will be exhibiting at this year’s event, which takes place on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th June 2019 at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre.

For more information on PetCloud, visit www.petcloud.com.au

* http://www.acac.org.au/pet-ownership/ 

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th June 2019

Farm fresh pet supplements of potted pet grass and potted catnip from Pet Greens are now available via online subscription delivered from the farm direct to customers.

Pet Greens are packed with vitamins, minerals and powerful antioxidants to supplement the existing diet of small indoor pets who don’t get to enjoy the outdoor life of their ancestors. As more and more Australians choose apartment living that they share with four legged friends, it’s important to bring some of the outdoors in.

Pet Greens are proudly supported by celebrity vet Dr Katrina Warren and her Maine Coon cat King Leo.

“As more and more of our precious pets are living indoors with us, it is more important than ever that we pay attention to meeting their specific mental and physical requirements. It’s about creating an enriched environment for cats and other small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, small dogs and even lizards.

“The health benefits to many small pets is significant, and there are millions of pet owners who want to keep their pets healthy and content. Pet grass contains chlorophyll, vitamins and proteins, all of which may be beneficial to the health of our precious pets.

“Catnip encourages play in some cats and cat be used as environment enrichment. It also may have a calming effect for some cats which may help with anxiety,” said Dr Katrina.


Pet Greens are fresh, unprocessed and 100 per cent gluten free. 

While the concept of providing pet grass and catnip to pets is not new, in the past it relied on the owner to grow their own grasses or buy through retail where the product is not necessarily at it freshest. Pet Greens offers a delivery service of fresh product.

Pet Greens products are cultivated under the Australian sun, and rainwater, 100 per cent pesticide-free on farms across Australia.


Pet Grass is a blend of natural grasses, designed to offer optimal nutrition for your pets. It supports a healthy digestive tract and immune system.

The Pet Greens catnip and Pet Grass are both live potted plants that are placed in specially designed packaging and delivered by courier direct to customers around Australia.

Customers can choose from a variety of subscriptions, product combinations or a one-off purchase by visiting the website at www.petgreens.com.au/


About Pet Greens

Pet Greens is part of The Little Fresh Group, offering local, sustainable and fresh foods to Australian households since 1981.

MEDIA RELEASE, 8th June 2019