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Dog Lovers Book Club - August 2023



From a light-hearted Australian fun fiction novel to a practical guide to puppyhood and a supportive book for pet parents navigating end of life decisions plus the latest illustrated books for young dog lovers, enjoy our top picks of book releases for this August 2023 Dog Lovers Book Club.

SIT, STAY, LOVE
by Amy Hutton

The most uplifting rom-com you’ll read this year – a fresh take on the friends-to-lovers trope, brimming with heart, joy and puppies!

Sera loves owning a pet shelter – even if it’s often tricky to make ends meet, and her mother thinks she's wasting her life. Thankfully, she can always rely on her steadfast best friend, Toby, who just happens to be the local vet.

And then famous actor Ethan James enters the scene. After Sera 'saves' Ethan from a friendly German Shepherd, he confesses to a terrible fear of dogs. A canine co-star is all that stands between Ethan and the role of a lifetime – and he wants Sera to help him overcome his fear. As they bumble through a series of training sessions together, sparks fly and Sera's surprised to find herself falling for Ethan. But not half as surprised as she is when Toby starts acting like a jealous boyfriend.

Now Sera's juggling six dogs, a litter of kittens, a horse, a sheep, and two men intent on outdoing each other. But she'll have to figure out what her heart truly wants ... before her life goes completely to the dogs.

Trade Paperback: 320 pages. Also available as eBook.
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia, 2nd August, 2023

RRP: $32.99 from all good bookstores and online. For details & stockists, visit www.simonandschuster.com.au

For your chance to Win 1 of 5 copies of 'Sit, Stay, Love' by Amy Hutton, enter our giveaway before August 9, 2023.

FUR THE BROKEN HEARTED
by Nikki Catley

With August 28 being Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day, this book is for anyone who understands the immense love and joy a companion animal can bring but who may also be currently crippled by the devastating thought of beginning end of life discussions and processes. 

For anyone struggling to decide if the time to offer the ultimate gift of peace (euthanasia) to your fur baby is now or impending, this book may assist you in preparing the best way possible. You may never be 100% sure of your decision and that's okay but planning is certainly the key for the best outcome for all.

Nikki is certified to facilitate the counselling relationship and is a certified Grief Facilitator. After helping hundreds of pet parents in person or via phone consultation, Nikki wanted to produce a tangible tool to continue to help many more and so 'Fur the Broken Hearted' was born.
This guide has been created for pet families to reference each time they feel they need emotional and practical support and is encouraged to be used a self help tool. To learn more visit Paws For Talk.

Paperback, ‎ 53 pages
Independently published, 23rd March 2022

Price: $18.68 from www.amazon.com.au

PUPPY NURTURE
by Shay Kelly

A dog-centric, practical approach to raising puppies.

Getting a new puppy is an exciting time, but caring for them and raising them into happy and content member of the family is, often, not without its challenges.
Shay Kelly transfers his scientific knowledge into user-friendly information which guides the reader through puppyhood in a way that respects the pup's needs and builds enduring, healthy, relationships.

From the moment the puppy leaves the care of their mother and comes to live with us, they become our responsibility. Our job is to continue their nurture and guide them to live happily in this human-dominated world. Our job is to build a relationship we can be proud of.

Paperback, 170 pages
Independently published, 6 May, 2023

RRP: $26.68 (Paperback); $11.99 (eBook) from www.amazon.com.au

ONE MAN AND HIS DOG
Two RAF Heroes take to the skies in World War Two
by Anthony Richardson

The amazing true story of a Czech airman and his Alsatian puppy who braved the dangers of World War Two together.

On February 12, 1940, Jan Bozdech and his fellow crew were shot down above no-man’s-land between the Maginot and Siegfried defence lines in northern France.

They made their way to a deserted farmhouse and it was here that Jan first met a four-month old orphaned puppy who would stay by his side for the rest of the war.

In their journey across Europe, Jan and his dog, named Antis, would never waver in their mutual loyalty and devotion. After the fall of France they would flee to Britain and join the RAF, flying numerous bombing missions over occupied Europe and Nazi Germany while evading enemy flak and fighter planes.

For Antis’ services during the conflict he received the Dickin Medal, commonly known as the animal VC, from the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals for bravery during the Second World War.

One Man and His Dog is the remarkable story of Jan and Antis’ dramatic adventures amid the perils of war. It is without doubt one of the greatest dog stories of all time.

Paperback, 293 pages
Publisher: Sapere Books, 19th May 2023

Price: $20.89 from www.amazon.com.au

THE DOG CODE DECODED
The story of a dog who wanted more and to give more
by Jan Kuperman

The Dog Code Decoded is the moving story of a wise old dog who breaks out from the restraints of his everyday life. He sets out on a mission to live the life he had always yearned for.

This is Old Dogs' quest to leave his dog code along the way. But what does the Dog Code mean, and why it is so important in a dog's life? Old Dog will take us on his final journey, one filled with stories from his fellow canine friends.

He takes one special friend, Young Pup, under his guidance, sharing his knowledge and experience about humans along the way.

The Dog Code is a poignant insight into man's best friend, a dog's life based on unconditional love and loyalty.

Through Old Dog, we share these amazing qualities and learn the true meaning of compassion and empathy through a dog's eyes.


Paperback, 144 pages
Publisher: Independently published, 7th September 2022

Price: $12.42 from www.amazon.com.au

BOOK CLUB – KIDS’ CORNER

SHADOW’s TRIP TO THE VET
by Claire Corrigan

Written by Claire Corridan and beautifully illustrated by Elettra Cudignotto, this book aims to involve children in dog ownership, by guiding them through the process of taking the dog to visit the vet.

Shadow’s Trip to the Vet promotes both preventative and emergent veterinary care in animals by teaching children how to recognise when their pet is feeling unwell and what to do to help them.

Thinking about reducing stress levels in animals – how to recognise stress, how to respond to a stressed animal and learning what to do to help – will improve knowledge and encourage empathy for both animals and people.

Paperback, ‎56 pages
Publisher: ‎ 5m Books Ltd, 30th June 2023
For Ages: ‎ 7 - 9 years old

RRP: $27.43 from www.amazon.com.au 

SECOND DOGS
by Carolyn Crimi

A heart-warming and heart-tugging novel about love, loyalty, and what it means to be part of a family — from author Carolyn Crimi, with adorable illustrations by Melissa Manwill. 

Miss Lottie’s home was for second chances.

When she adopted Gus, Roo, Tank, and Moon Pie, Miss Lottie rescued each member of the pack—including herself, her helper, Quinn, and her reclusive cat, Ghost—and turned them into a family. But when a new dog, Decker, arrives and tries to hoard Miss Lottie’s heart and home for himself, the pack’s future is threatened.

At first, Gus, the insecure pack leader, only notices little things, like tiny Moon Pie being kicked out of the bed and Ghost acting spooked (then again...Ghost is a cat). But things soon go from bad to worse as Decker’s presence causes disharmony in the group.

When Decker convinces Moon Pie to embark on an impossible journey, it’s up to Gus to gather his courage, rally his splintered pack, and bring the little dog home. And with coyotes and cars on the loose, the pack must push through obstacles and dangers to reunite with Moon Pie before he can get hurt—or, nearly as bad, get his heart broken.

Paperback, 256 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 18th July 2023
For Ages: 8+ years old

RRP: $24.50 from www.booktopia.com.au

DOGS WITH JOBS
by Natalie Leski, illustrated by Victoria Brown

"Meet Humphrey, Pinky, Macy and their friends. Six different dogs with six different important jobs.

Humphrey the seeing-eye dog helps to navigate obstacles, Pinky is a therapy dog in a primary school, and Macy is a beloved pet.

 We also meet a police dog, a sniffer dog, and a medical assistance dog, who all teach young readers about the important roles dogs have in the community, and how to interact with them when they meet them."

Paperback, 20 pages (also available on Kindle)
Self-published, October 2020 (now in its 3rd edition)

RRP: $20.00 + ($3.00 postage) from dogs-with-jobs-book.myshopify.com/

I HAVE SEVEN DOGS
by Molly Horan

Zoe isn't allowed to have a dog of her own, but fortunately the neighbourhood pooches inspire an awesome idea!

It's an age-old problem-Zoe wants a dog but can't have one. But that doesn't stop her from befriending all the dogs in her neighbourhood-and appreciating each one's charms and quirks. 

She knows which pups give high-fives, enjoy being read to, and love music. And she also knows she's good at solving problems, so when a visit to the community garden inspires a brilliant doggy idea, it's time to celebrate! Young animal lovers will appreciate Zoe's predicament and love her paws-itively pup-filled solution.

Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: Penguin Group USA, 13th June 2023
For Ages: 3 - 7 years old

RRP: $38.50 from www.booktopia.com.au

FIRST DOG FALA
FDR's Canine Companion
by Elizabeth Van Steenwyk

Meet the Scottish Terrier who won the hearts of a US president and the American people.

In 1940, Fala came to live with President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the White House. The little dog played in the grass outside the Oval Office, attended important meetings with the president's advisors, and even dined with the president.

But as America was drawn into the conflict of a world war, life at the White House changed. Fala accompanied the president across the country and around the world, waiting with him for the return of American servicemen and an end to a terrible war.

Author Elizabeth Van Steenwyk offers young readers a glimpse into American history and the life of an American president through the story of a loyal dog. Michael G. Montgomery's full-colour illustrations capture the indomitable spirit of Fala and the nation and president who loved him.

Paperback, 32 pages
Publisher: Random House US, 25th July 2023
For Ages: 4 - 8 years old

RRP: $22.80 from www.booktopia.com.au

LESTER THE LIBRARY DOG
by Gina Dawson, illustrated by Bima Perera

Lester loves books, children, and his job as a library dog. Children wait eagerly for their turn to read to him, and Lester s the perfect listener.

But Lester does more than listen to stories. He inspires children to read with confidence, helps them deal with emotions, sorts out squabbles, teaches responsibility, and makes everyone laugh. 

At a time when more and more schools have library and school dogs, Lester the Library Dog is a perfect fit for school, preschool, and public libraries. This book shows a day in the life of one library dog and the impact he has, whilst emphasising the team effort and responsibility of having a dog in a school community.

Hardback, 32 pages
Publisher: New Holland Publishers, 20th February 2023
For Ages: 3+ years old

RRP: $19.95 from all good bookstores or directly from the author.

Chica+Co launches Wellness dog supplements




Simple, Real & Honest: Science-backed Superfood Canine Supplements that Taste Great

Man’s best friend has a new best friend! 

Brisbane-based holistic canine nutrition company, Chica+Co, has just released a range of tasty organic meal supplements designed to fortify and heal our canine companions.

About Chica + Co

            Co-founder Audra Jimenez with
             her Dachshund Monks
Chica+Co Creator and Founder, Audra Jimenez, developed the natural range in response to her own dogs’ health needs, and as an alternative to the often-bitter laboratory-made synthetic vitamins and mineral supplements on the market.

Audra had been involved with the dog showing world since she was a kid and spent her adult life fostering abandoned dogs (and cats and birds and possums and whatever else fell out of a tree and into her lap) and rehoming them. She volunteered as a Vet Nurse Assistant for some time for the RSPCA and now holds Certificates and Diplomas in Canine Nutrition, Raw Feeding and Companion Animal Nutrition.

"Our ex-puppy farm girl Chica came to us as a sickly little pup nearly 11 years ago. After trying every type of food on the market she still was not a happy girl, vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy were a common occurrence. 

After a year we finally had a diagnosis; acute Pancreatitis - a condition that was slowly killing her. After months of research, I finally designed a diet that met all her needs and allowed her the good health she deserved. This was the day Chica+Co was born.
"My dream is simple - to give every dog the opportunity to live their best healthy lives. You are what you eat and the same goes for your pooch!" said Audra. 
Little Baeya came to us at 8 weeks from a reputable breeder. At 10 weeks of age she dislocated her hip and front shoulder playing. Scans showed she had been born with severe skeletal deformities - the vet’s prognosis was dire - a full hip replacement at 12 months and an ongoing medical plan to keep her pain free as possible as Osteoarthritis was predicted at a very young age. Her ear canals are malformed and prone to blocking causing chronic balance issues. She has hyper-mobility in all of her joints, is able to bend her neck right back to touch her back which is just plain creepy - hence her nickname of 'Monkey' or 'Monks'! We set about treating her with all the medicinal foods we could research and find. 
"She is the reason for so many of Chica + Co's products in our range - joint mobility, reduction of inflammation and pain-easing ingredients" explains Audra.
In collaboration with her Vet, Audra designed and built a full body brace that locked her in place. She wore a human newborn nappy with a tail hole cut out as the basis of the brace, and wore it for 23 out of 24 hours a day for the first six months of her life. 

Basically we her little skeleton was 'bonsai'd' to make sure her sockets did not slip and slide. At 6 years of age, little Monks is now pain-free, energetic and living happily."

Introducing the Chica+Co Wellness pet supplements

“At Chica+Co, we wanted to feed our own pets healthy nutritional supplements to combat the various skin and health issues they had, but supplement labels often read like a chemical cocktail,” she said. 

“As part of our daily interactions with our customers we found that, like us, our fellow pet parents also wanted a tasty and organic alternative to the synthetic supplements and multivitamin additives on the market.”

Jimenez said through the market research they conducted it became very clear that pet owners wanted supplements that not only provided the nutritional profile requirements their pets needed but were actually something they wanted to eat.

“As a species-appropriate food advocate, I teach my clients that Mother Nature provides solutions if we just stop to look,” she said. 

“So, with that in mind, I set out to research and develop a range of natural blends – Optimal Gut Health Bone Broth, Healthy Bones Supplement, Super Greens Meal Blend, Skin Soother Blend and a 2-Seed Curcumin Blend – that harness the curative powers of superfoods to cure a range of common ailments.”

Two Seed Curcumin Meal Supplement - close-up



The ingredients used are certified human-grade organic with the range specifically designed to target a range of common health issues from gut microbiome support, post-injury regenerative support, joint health, free-radical cellular damage, chronic skin issues and allergy support.

Importantly, the products contain no artificial ingredients, additives or preservatives, and labelling cuts through industry marketing jargon and an over reliance on chemical additives to showcase what super foods can do.




“Our dogs are our family, and it’s fair to say we want to give them the absolute best, Chica+Co Co-founder Jose Jimenez said. “Our customers often question us in disbelief when they read our ingredient labels which, in most cases, are very short.”

“To put it plainly, you’ll see real food not synthetic names or numbers because they just aren’t there,” he said. “We developed and perfected these produces over six years… and, for those that question the veracity of the range, the four-legged proof is running right round in front of us.”

Chica+Co’s locally sourced and made Wellness range comes complete with refillable jars and recyclable refill pouches to help customers reduce their carbon impact, one pawprint at a time.

Price & Where to Buy:  

The products are available at select pet supply outlets or online.

RRP: from $19.95 (120g) at www.chicaandco.shop/wellnesssupplements

You can follow Chica+Co on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ChicaandCo or
@chicandco on Instagram

MEDIA RELEASE, 31st July 2023

Rapping about responsible pet ownership in remote communities



School students and community members of the Yiyili remote community in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, are the stars in a deadly new music video promoting pet ownership in remote communities produced by Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities (AMRRIC) ‘Dog Mob Cat Crew’ education team backed by a talented group of music industry creatives.

The music video showcases the incredible talents of the Yiyili students and community members, using a rap and hip-hop rhyme to share stories of what their Tharda (dogs) and Ngiya (cats) mean to them and the importance of looking after your pets for the health of the animals, the people, and the community.


First launched by AMRRIC in the community of Finke (Aputula) in 2022, the ‘Dog Mob Cat Crew’ music video initiative has been designed to promote responsible pet ownership and highlight the connection between strong animals, strong health, and strong communities. The music videos have been developed using a community centred creative practice fusing collaboration, innovation, community, and culture.

For the Yiyili community music video, First Nations music artist and rapper Nooky worked alongside award-winning music video producer Dion Brownfield from Grand Trine Creative, to guide and coach the students and community members in writing and performing the verses to their Tharda Nyooloo Ngiya Nyooloo (dogs and cats) song.

Musicians Kenneth Dawson and Big Fella contributed to the chorus, and the music video also featured collaboration with music producer Caleb Williams aka Tentendo who mixed and mastered the music track, and Johnny Yao from 76m Films who did the cinematography and editing for the video.

“Creating this music video was such a joyful collaborative process, working with the fantastically talented Yiyili mob, and bringing together my pals Nooky, Tentendo and Johnny - to share an important message about responsible pet ownership, because we want everyone to know that healthy animals mean healthy communities,” said Dion Brownfield from Grand Trine Creative.

AMRRIC is committed to facilitating community-led educational programs like this ‘Dog Mob Cat Crew’ music video initiative to share the voices and stories of remote community members to raise awareness of animal health in rural and remote Indigenous communities.

“Animal health is an integral part of building strong communities, and we’re thrilled that the creative collaboration between our ‘Dog Mob Cat Crew’ program working directly with remote community members and the support of our talented partner musical creatives has produced another all-star music video delivering an important message,” said AMRRIC Chief Executive Officer Dr Brooke Rankmore.

“As a line from the music video highlights, dogs and cats in remote communities are ‘part of the family - they’re part of the mob’, and by working together we can all help ensure healthy animals and healthy communities. We are very grateful to everyone who has made this initiative the success it is, and AMRRIC’s education team are already busy planning further creative projects.”

To view the music video, please follow this link: https://vimeo.com/amrric/yiyilidmcc

August is National Pet Dental Health Month






This August marks National Pet Dental Health Month, helping to highlight the importance of pet oral health for the happiness and wellbeing of our beloved four-legged friends. 

In Australia, dental disease is the most common health condition in pets, with as many as 70% – 80% of cats and dogs having developed some form of the disease during their lifetime [1]. To help raise greater awareness and encourage Australians to monitor symptoms of this condition, Petstock Vet Dr. Tara Morris shares her expert advice on how to keep your pet’s teeth and gums in tip-top shape.

How do I know if my pet has dental disease?

Dental disease, specifically periodontal disease, is a progressive condition affecting your pet's gums and surrounding bone. It develops in four stages, with the initial stage being the mildest and most easily treatable. 

Symptoms may include bad breath, plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth, loss of appetite, difficulty chewing, eating, or bleeding gums [2]. 

If left untreated, advanced stages of dental disease can lead to tooth loss, gum inflammation, and significant bone loss [3]. It's important to note that dental disease causes pain and discomfort at any stage. Seeking prompt veterinary advice and early treatment is crucial to prevent the condition from worsening.

Hygiene Tip #1: Start a brushing routine




Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly, preferably daily or at least weekly [4], is the most important way of helping to maintain their oral hygiene and prevent dental disease.

To clean your pet’s teeth, make sure you invest in specialised toothbrushes specially designed for animals and are less abrasive than human brushes. Pet-friendly toothpaste is also a must, as many human toothpastes contain xylitol — an artificial sweetener that is toxic to cats and dogs.

Other products that can be used to clean your pet’s teeth include dental wipes, mouth freshening water additives, and even fresh breath foam. If you’re thinking of incorporating these products into your pet’s dental routine but are unsure about which products to use, speak to your local vet or head to your local Petstock store for more personalised advice.

Hygiene Tip #2: Dental toys and treats

Not only are they delicious and fun to play with, dental toys and treats are an easy way of helping to maintain oral hygiene. 





A great option to consider for pet owners who are short on time, dental toys and treats can be given with minimal supervision, and are designed to help remove plaque and tartar as your pets play and chew.

Hygiene Tip #3: Consider a dental diet

Aside from dental treats, a pet’s overall diet can also play a role in keeping healthy oral hygiene. Pet owners can explore specially formulated dental kibble that aids in cleaning their pet's teeth as they eat, effectively reducing the formation of plaque and tartar.

Remember that any diet changes should be gradual and must always be conducted under the guidance of a pet professional. Consult your local vet before suddenly changing your pet’s diet to improve oral hygiene.

Hygiene Tip #4: Getting your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned

There’s only so much that home cleaning, dental treats and specialised kibble can do. Once tartar has set and formed throughout the stages of dental disease, it cannot easily be removed at home and thus professional cleaning is recommended. 

Like humans, it is advised for pets to receive a professional dental clean once every six months to prevent general build up. 

As professional dental cleaning is a procedure requiring anaesthesia and a prior dental check, be sure to speak to your local vet if you are considering this option.

Dental Health Facts

✔️ Dogs have 42 permanent teeth and cats have 30.

✔️ Rabbit teeth are open-rooted and continuously grow throughout their lives.

✔️ Aggressive chewing on hard objects is a primary cause of broken teeth in dogs like rocks.

✔️ Providing your pet with good dental hygiene can add 2-4 years to their life.

✔️ Pets don’t tell us when their teeth hurt, animals actually hide the signs of illness or weakness

Dr Tara’s top dental health product picks:

  • Tropiclean Fresh Breath Oral Care Kit RRP:$35.84
  • Tropiclean Fresh Breath Dental Wipes 50pk RRP:$29.40
  • Tropiclean Enticers Kong Dental Ball & Smoked Beef Brisket Gel RRP:$29.97 - $39.97
  • Greenies Regular Dental Chews For Medium Dogs Treats RRP:$35.98
  • Drool by Dr Chris Brown Cat Teeth + Breath Cat Treats 60g RRP:$11.98

For more information on how to care for your pet’s oral health, visit www.petstock.com.au

References:

[1] [3] Mäkinen, Annika & Munukka, 2019, pp. 275-276
[2] [4] RSPCA, 2022

About National Pet Dental Health Month 

This August, Petstock is celebrating National Pet Dental Health Month, raising awareness of dental disease and encouraging pet parents to play an active role in keeping their pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Throughout the month, Petstock is providing a range of dental product savings in-store and online. 

MEDIA RELEASE, 26th August 2023

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Vaccine trial for dogs with bone cancer at UQ




University of Queensland veterinary researchers are recruiting pet dogs diagnosed with cancer to test an experimental vaccine.

The clinical research trial is for dogs recently diagnosed with canine appendicular osteosarcoma, a common bone tumour that affects 10,000 dogs a year globally.

Dr Abhilasha Dadhich from UQ’s School of Veterinary Science said researchers will assess two vaccine formulations.

“These treatments aim to stimulate a dog’s immune system to fight the spread of cancerous cells to other tissues of the body,” Dr Dadhich said.
“We’re essentially ‘waking up’ the dog’s immune system to fight the cancer.”
“This has real potential to enhance the life expectancy of the pets in the trial.”

To be eligible, dogs need to have been diagnosed with appendicular osteosarcoma of long bones of the limbs with no evidence of metastasis, or cancer spread, based on a physical exam and radiographs.

Dogs can be any breed but must be proceeding to surgery to treat their cancer.

“If the dog meets these parameters, their owner will simply need to sign an informed consent document after the trial has been explained,” Dr Dadhich said.

“The veterinary clinic will then collect blood and cancerous bone tissue from the dog at the time of surgery.

“Our prepared treatment is provided for free, administered to the dog in two doses. “The first vaccine dose will be given within two weeks of their surgery and the second dose as a booster three weeks later.

“Further blood samples from the dog will be collected to assess its immune response.”

Barney, owned by Professor Allavena, was given an early version of the vaccine when diagnosed
with an aggressive bone cancer and 10 months later is alive and well.


Professor Rachel Allavena, who is leading the team conducting the trial, said it was hoped immune treatments would one day be a straightforward process for veterinarians around the world.

“This technique has incredible potential to reduce suffering in our pets and eventually a variation may even be able to help humans,” Professor Allavena said.

“We’re very eager to kick off this trial, as we have promising results from prior trials for dogs with cancer.”

Pet owners able to take their dog to the UQ VETS Small Animal Hospital at Gatton for surgery and treatment will be preferentially selected, however the team would also like to recruit patients from elsewhere in Australia, except NSW (due to an ethics requirement).

The project team includes experienced veterinarians, board-certified pathologists and clinical trial experts who will provide regular monitoring and follow ups.

Applications for the trial can be made via this webform, or questions can be directed to Dr Dadhich a.dadhich@uq.edu.au or Dr José Granados Soler j.granados@uq.edu.au.

MEDIA RELEASE, 21st July 2023

Pound Paws Dog Day BUPA Clayton - August 5




Pound Paws, an Australian-based Animal Welfare Charity and BUPA Aged Care have joined forces in an inspiring partnership aimed at bringing together rescue pets and elderly individuals residing in nursing homes across Australia. 

This collaboration seeks to alleviate loneliness among the elderly by facilitating the adoption of pets from shelters and creating loving companionships in nursing home settings.

Scientific research has consistently highlighted the numerous physical and mental health benefits that pets offer, including stress reduction, companionship, and increased social interactions. 




These benefits are especially crucial for older adults who often face isolation and loneliness, relying on the presence of a furry companion to thrive, whether at home or in a residential aged care facility.

According to CANA's recent aged care report, a staggering 61% of older adults live alone, with 74% of pet owners among them crediting their animals for providing companionship and alleviating feelings of loneliness. 

Clayton Aged Care residents were surprised by furry and feathered friends (Twitter / December 2021)
Recognising the significance of this issue, Pound Paws and BUPA Aged Care have come together to make a positive impact in the lives of both rescue animals and the elderly.

"We firmly believe that pets can significantly enhance the well-being of residents in our centres. Over the years, we have been fortunate to witness countless heart-warming friendships blossom between our residents and a variety of animals, from dogs to birds," said Amanda Grimmer - BUPA Aged Care Business Development Manager (VIC / SA).

“Animals possess a unique ability to communicate without words, impacting the hearts of humans. The companionship formed with our furry friends is unparalleled, and Pound Paws is thrilled to launch this partnership with BUPA Aged Care, fostering numerous loving connections between pet owners and rescue pets across retirement communities in Australia," said Brittany Bloomer, Founder of Pound Paws.

One of the major barriers to pet adoption is the lack of access to pounds and rescue centres, often due to distance or transportation constraints. To overcome this challenge, Pound Paws not only hosts an online rescue pet search engine, but organises Dog Adoption Events, bringing dogs available for adoption from various rescue groups directly to the public.



One rescue group in particular, Amazing Greys, will be bringing along Greyhound dogs, which they have rescued from racing and now ready to retire. These events also serve as platforms for educating the public about the happiness and wellbeing of rescue pets through the Rescue Dog Adoption Parade.

The Rescue Dog Adoption Parade is a remarkable opportunity for the public to learn more about various rescue groups and their incredible work. 




Pound Paws will be hosting their first event at BUPA Aged Care Clayton on Saturday 5th of August. This event will be open to the public to attend, with a variety of fun activities for all ages.

Additionally, educational talks on stage cover a range of topics including Animal Communication, Pet Health, and Responsible Pet Ownership. Pound Paws firmly believes that education is key to successful pet ownership.

Pound Paws is looking forward to launching at BUPA, Clayton which presents a fantastic opportunity to reach a new network of potential pet owners who are in desperate need of support and companionship.




When: Saturday 5th August 2023, from 11am to 2pm

Where: BUPA Aged Care Clayton, 12 Burton Avenue Clayton, VIC 3168

Cost: Free

For the latest updates, visit this Event's Facebook page or EventBrite Link. 





About Pound Paws

Pound Paws is a prominent animal welfare organization dedicated to improving the lives of abandoned pets and promoting responsible pet ownership. By connecting rescue pets with loving homes, Pound Paws has made a significant impact in the animal adoption landscape.
For more information, please visit www.poundpaws.com.au

About BUPA Aged Care

BUPA Aged Care has 59 aged care homes which support over 5,000 residents with residential, respite, specialised dementia and palliative care.
For more information, please visit www.bupaagedcare.com.au/aged-care-homes

MEDIA RELEASE, 27th July 2023

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Keeping elderly people and their pets together: urgent action needed

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