Tackle Sydney’s Steepest Hill for a Great Cause: The 25th Anniversary Balmoral Burn Pet & Owner Race

Registrations are officially open for a significant milestone in the Sydney event calendar—the Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn. 

Returning on Sunday 24 May 2026 to Awaba Street, Mosman, this year marks the 25th anniversary of the iconic charity challenge.

Bringing together thousands of participants to tackle Mosman’s infamous 420-metre incline, the Balmoral Burn is more than just a test of endurance. Every step taken on that 1:4 grade hill helps the Humpty Dumpty Foundation provide essential, and often lifesaving, medical equipment to more than 520 hospitals and health services across Australia.

A Milestone Celebration for Pet Owners

While the event hosts over 20 race categories, for the Australian Dog Lover community, the highlight remains the Pet & Owner race. This dedicated category offers a unique opportunity for Sydney dog owners to help "pets with paws" do their bit for a vital cause. 

Whether you have a seasoned canine runner or a pup happy to enjoy the atmosphere at a slower pace, the sight of hundreds of dogs and their owners conquering Sydney's steepest street together is an annual highlight of the program.

2026 Race Day Highlights

Vibrant colours meet happy paws in the new Celebration Run.

To celebrate a quarter-century of "feeling the burn," the 2026 event includes several exciting new and returning activations:

• Pet & Owner Race: The category designed specifically for dogs and their human teammates.
• Celebration Run: A vibrant 25-year anniversary addition where participants wear white and are drenched in colour as they race.
• Run Baby Run: Australia’s only inflatable baby suit race returns for its third year.
• King & Queen of the Hill: For the competitive speed demons looking for a course record.
• Corporate & School Relays: Perfect for local businesses and schools to rally teams for community spirit.

25 Years of Impact

Every breed is welcome to tackle the 420-metre incline!

The Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn was founded in 2001 by Wallabies great and Humpty Ambassador Phil Kearns AM. In the 25 years since, the event has raised an incredible $36.5 million. These funds have a direct, tangible impact; the Humpty Dumpty Foundation is the largest charitable supplier of children’s medical equipment in Australia. In 2025 alone, two-thirds of the hospitals supported were in rural or remote communities, ensuring every Australian child has access to quality healthcare regardless of their location.

Event Essentials

The atmosphere at Balmoral is unmissable, featuring delicious food, live entertainment, and activations for the whole family (and their dogs!).

Feeling the burn for a great cause on Awaba Street in Mosman.

• Date: Sunday 24 May 2026
• Location: Awaba Street, Mosman, NSW

• Race Start: From 8:20 AM

• Register Now: www.balmoralburn.com.au

A Note on Safety: The Balmoral Burn is a steep challenge! Please ensure your dog is fit, healthy, and up to date with their veterinary checks before tackling the incline. Always keep your dog on a lead, bring plenty of water, and move at a pace that is comfortable for your four-legged partner.

About the Humpty Dumpty Foundation

For over 35 years, the Humpty Dumpty Foundation has provided more than 7,300 pieces of medical equipment to paediatric wards, neonatal units, and maternity departments across the country. To learn more about donating a piece of equipment or making a general donation, visit www.humpty.org.au or call 1300 486 789.

Winter Warning: Is Your Senior Pet ‘Slowing Down’ or in Pain?

As the Australian winter sets in, that "slowing down" you’ve noticed in your older dog might be more than just a preference for the fireplace. Colder temperatures often act as a catalyst for underlying health issues, turning manageable conditions into serious quality-of-life concerns.

According to Pet Insurance Australia (PIA), winter is the most critical time for owners of senior pets (aged 8+) to move from passive observation to active management.

The True Cost of the Cold: Osteoarthritis

For senior dogs, winter’s chill is felt most acutely in the joints. PetSure claims data reveals that osteoarthritis was the most commonly claimed condition for insured senior dogs in 2024. The financial reality is equally sobering, with some 12-month treatment costs reaching upwards of $21,936.

While the costs can be daunting, medical science has kept pace. It is worth exploring the latest treatment solutions for canine arthritis, which now include everything from monoclonal antibodies to advanced multimodal pain management, offering relief that wasn't available even five years ago.

“Many owners assume slowing down is simply part of ageing. But changes in mobility or even personality often indicate underlying pain that the cold is exacerbating.” — Nadia Crighton, Pet Insurance Australia

Beyond the Joints: Recognising Cognitive Decline (CCD)

While physical stiffness is easier to spot, winter also highlights signs of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)—often described as dog dementia. The change in routine or shorter daylight hours can trigger confusion in pets who were previously coping.

“Cognitive decline can be incredibly subtle,” warns Crighton. “Behaviours like staring at walls, pacing at night, or getting stuck in familiar corners are clinical signs that shouldn't be ignored.”

Understanding these symptoms early is key, as there are many proactive ways to support brain health and potentially delay the onset of doggy dementia through mental stimulation and environmental support.

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The Winter Strategy: Management & Nutrition

The good news is that early intervention can significantly improve a senior pet’s quality of life. Management involves a three-pronged approach: Environmental, Veterinary, and Nutritional.

1. Targeted Nutrition

Rachael Tricarico, canine nutrition specialist from Houndztooth, notes that what goes into the bowl is just as important as the bedding they sleep on.

• Inflammation Support: Look for ingredients like Omega-3 fatty acids and New Zealand green-lipped mussel.

• Muscle Maintenance: High-quality proteins are essential to prevent muscle wastage.

• Weight Management: Carrying extra weight puts unnecessary strain on cold, stiff joints.

2. Environmental Adjustments

Small changes at home can make a massive difference in daily comfort:

✔ Draft-Free Zones: Elevate bedding and move it away from cold air currents.

✔ Access Aids: Use ramps or steps to prevent high-impact jumping and reduce the strain on sensitive joints.

✔ Gentle Movement: Opt for shorter, more frequent walks during the warmest parts of the day.

In Memory: Our very first dog, Conner, enjoying a gentle autumn walk. Conner navigated both CCD and arthritis in his final years, and he remains our inspiration for supporting senior dog wellness.

3. Regular Veterinary Checks

Because pets are masters at masking pain, a winter wellness check is vital. Routine visits allow for early detection of everything from heart disease symptoms and heart murmur to essential dental care issues, ensuring your companion doesn't just survive the season but continues to thrive. 

For a comprehensive look at maintaining vitality, see our full guide on helping senior dogs thrive mentally and physically.

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Important Information:

Figures sourced from the PetSure Pet Health Monitor 2025 for pets aged 8+. Always consult your veterinarian before starting new supplements or medication for your senior pet.

Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company or PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd depending on the policy start date. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au before making a decision about this product.

 Related Stories

• Canine Arthritis: New Treatment Solutions

• How to Delay the Onset of Doggy Dementia

• Golden Years: Helping Senior Dogs Thrive Mentally & Physically

Hidden Kitchen Dangers This Winter

With winter just two weeks away, Lort Smith Animal Hospital is urging pet families to think twice before sharing those tempting "comfort food" leftovers.

Lort Smith Chief Veterinarian, Dr Jessica Wilde, says that as the temperature drops, more people turn to slow-cooked meals that often contain ingredients toxic to dogs and cats.

The Rise of the "Counter-Surfer"

“Dogs, in particular, can be very opportunistic when it comes to swiping ingredients off a bench or table,” says Dr Wilde. 

“Because these dishes are often slow-cooked, the aromatic smells can be particularly tempting for 'counter-surfing' animals.” — Dr. Jessica Wilde, Lort Smith Chief Veterinarian

Take Suki, for example. A seven-month-old Groodle and professional sausage roll thief, Suki left her family stunned after devouring 12 mini sausage rolls straight off the kitchen bench. Her dad, Simon, had stepped out of the room for just a minute while the oven was heating up.

“I heard my wife yell, and when I came back Suki had eaten about 12 sausage rolls off the tray. She ate them whole!” Simon says.

Because the sausage rolls contained garlic and onion—both toxic to dogs—and the rich, fatty pastry posed a high risk for pancreatitis, Simon rushed Suki to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department. 

Thankfully, the veterinary team acted quickly, and Suki has made a full recovery.

The "Guest" Danger

It isn’t just counter-surfing that poses a risk; sometimes it’s a well-meaning treat from a visitor. Lucky, a four-year-old Beagle-Cavalier cross, was rushed to the emergency department after being given a roasted pork knuckle.

“I never give him bones, but my mum brought it over and I thought I’d treat him. The next day he just shut down.” — Marina, Lucky’s Mum

“ He was really down in the dumps, had no energy and wasn’t himself at all.”

Lucky was found to be severely dehydrated and required anti-nausea medication and electrolytes to stabilise. 

“Fatty foods and cooked bones can be particularly dangerous, potentially causing digestive upset or serious conditions like pancreatitis,” explains Lort Smith’s Dr Kass. “There is also a risk of bones splintering or becoming lodged.”

While Suki and Lucky both recovered, their stories serve as a vital reminder to keep rich leftovers well out of reach of curious pets and to educate guests on what is off-limits.

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The Top Comfort Food Dangers for Pets

According to admission data, these are the most common culprits for winter vet visits:

1. Onion and Garlic
Common in soups, casseroles, gravies, and roast dinners; these can damage red blood cells and lead to serious illness, even in small amounts.

2. Cooked Bones
Leftover chicken, lamb, pork, ham, and beef bones from roasts splinter easily when cooked, causing choking, internal punctures, or digestive blockages.

3. Sausages and Party Pies
Sausage rolls, cocktail frankfurts, and mini pies are often extremely high in fat, salt, and hidden seasonings like onion powder.

4. Stuffing
Common in stuffed poultry and roast trimmings, this is a "triple threat" combining high concentrations of onion, garlic, and rich fats.

5. High-Fat Scraps (Pork Crackling & Poultry Skin)
Roast pork crackling and chicken/turkey skin can trigger Pancreatitis, a painful and life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.

6. Rich Slow-Cooks (Stews & Casseroles)
Family-sized slow-cooked meals are a melting pot of dangers, often combining toxic garlic and onions with salt-heavy sauces.

7. Chocolate and Cocoa
Hot chocolates, brownies, and winter baked treats contain theobromine and caffeine, both of which are highly toxic to dogs and cats.

8. Alcohol
Mulled wine, liqueur desserts, and unattended drinks at gatherings can cause vomiting, tremors, and life-threatening complications.

9. Xylitol (Birch Sugar)
Found in sugar-free peanut butters, syrups, or "diet" baked goods; this sweetener causes a rapid, life-threatening drop in blood sugar and liver failure.

10. "Safe" Knuckle & Shank Bones
Even if unseasoned, large knuckles or shanks can cause a total digestive blockage if swallowed in chunks. As seen with Lucky the Beagle, even "non-toxic" treats can lead to a veterinary emergency if they are too rich for the pet's system or are ingested in large quantities.

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What to do in an Emergency

If you suspect your pet has ingested any toxic food, contact your local emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms like vomiting or lethargy to appear, as early intervention is the key to a full recovery.

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Safe Swaps: Healthy Winter Rewards

If you want to treat your best friend to something special while you enjoy your "comfort food," Lort Smith and Australian Dog Lover recommend sticking to these simple, vet-approved alternatives:

• Warm Bone Broth: A low-sodium, onion-free bone broth (specifically for pets) is a great way to warm them up without the salt or fat of human gravy.
• Steamed Veggies: Plain steamed pumpkin, carrots, broccoli, or green beans are high in fibre and perfectly safe.
• Plain Lean Meats: Small amounts of boiled, unseasoned chicken or turkey (with the skin and bones removed).
• The "Fruit Bowl" Treat: Apples (without seeds or core) and blueberries are excellent low-calorie snacks.
• Safe Purees: Unsweetened pumpkin or sweet potato puree (ensure there is no Xylitol/Birch Sugar).

A Blind Dog Named Bert: How a Brisbane Paint and Sip Funded a Year of Rescue

There is a specific kind of music in the home of Trent and James. It isn’t the 80s and 90s pop hits that usually soundtrack their business, Paint Juicy. Instead, it’s the steady, rhythmic snoring of Bert, a senior Beagle currently tucked into his favourite cushion.

To the casual observer, Bert is just a happy old hound. But to those who know his story, Bert is the blind, resilient catalyst for a fundraising phenomenon that has just secured the future for dozens of other senior dogs across Queensland.

A Leap of Faith for a "Senior Gent"

When Trent and James decided to add to their family five years ago, they already had Penelope, a pampered Beagle they’d raised since she was eight weeks old. Penelope was used to being an "only child" and being thoroughly spoilt. They weren’t necessarily looking for a challenge, but then they met Bert through Beagle Rescue Queensland (BRQ).

Bert was the definition of "special needs": fully blind, senior, and carrying a long list of chronic health issues.

"The team at BRQ treated us like family from the first phone call," Trent recalls. "They were upfront about every single health hurdle. We signed up anyway."

Life with a blind dog required a total shift in perspective. In the Trent and James household, the "golden rule" is simple: nothing moves.

"We were very conscious that once we placed things, they stayed there," Trent explains. "The water bowl doesn’t move. The lounge doesn’t move. He’s so clever; he has these things memorised quickly, even if we are visiting a new place, but it’s still crucial that we don't go moving things on him."

The Eyes of a Beagle

The first week with Bert went surprisingly well, mostly because Bert simply wanted to be with people. He slept on Trent and James' bed from day one—and five years later, he still does.

“We never leave him alone, ever," says Trent. "He’s always with one of us or someone we trust to look after him.”

Walking a blind dog is its own unique journey. Unlike walking a sighted dog where you might occasionally check your surroundings or your phone, Bert requires a constant guide.

"You can't scroll on your phone; you are his eyes," Trent says. "You learn very quickly to be patient. And you learn to talk more! He can't see you, but he loves to know that you are around. So we chat to him—he’s very responsive to his name—and he’s a happy boy."

The sibling dynamic eventually settled, too. Penelope, now 11, initially didn't understand why this new addition kept walking into her. But over time, she learned that Bert wasn't like other dogs. 

Today, the two often nap together, a sight Trent describes as "sweet and cute."

The Bert Effect: How One Beagle Inspired a Community

Seeing the care Bert required—and the tireless work BRQ put into rescuing dogs just like him—sparked an idea. As the owners of Paint Juicy, Australia's most awarded mobile paint and sip business, Trent and James realised they had the perfect platform to give back.

In April, they hosted a sold-out charity night at the Everton Park Bowls and Community Club. The format was designed to be the "easiest" kind of philanthropy.

"Charity nights are the easiest format we run, and the most rewarding," James explains. 

"Nobody has to sit through a guilt-trip speech or an awkward auction. Guests rock up, paint a pre-sketched Beagle, sing their lungs out to 80s and 90s hits with singer Lotti Rem, and the donation is built into every single ticket."

The night was a runaway success, raising $2,000 in just three hours. Paint Juicy waived its usual margins, ensuring $30 from every $59 ticket went straight to the rescue.

A Safety Net for Senior Hounds

When the $2,000 was handed over to BRQ, the rescue’s manager, Michelle, revealed the magnitude of the gift: it would fully fund the BRQ Seniors Program for the next 12 months.

Launched in 2025, the Seniors Program is a sanctuary for older Beagles who, due to age or chronic illness, are considered "unrehomable." These dogs live out their lives in permanent foster care, with the rescue covering every cent of their medical and nutritional needs.

The $2,000 from Paint Juicy covers:

• 12 months of specialised senior food
• All parasite treatments (flea, tick, and worming)
• Yearly vaccinations for every dog in the program

“In rescue, we say you have to give a bit of your heart so as to make theirs whole again. The money raised from the Paint Juicy event is humbling."                                       — Michelle, Manager, Beagle Rescue Queensland

It means we do not have to worry about buying their food or medicine for the next year. Paint Juicy's philanthropic gesture has made a real difference."

The Reward of the Rescue

For Trent and James, the highlight of the night wasn't the sold-out crowd—it was the moment they shared Bert’s story with the room.

"When we told the story of how Bert came to us, there was applause," Trent says. "We might have gotten a bit teary. Seniors have so much to give! All they want is love and a stable environment. We cannot describe in words how much we love Bert and how much he brings to our lives."

As Bert continues to snore on his cushion, his legacy is now officially written in the health and happiness of every senior Beagle across Queensland for the year to come. 

For these "Dog Dads," it was the ultimate way to give back to the organisation that gave them their best friend.

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Get Involved: Support the Seniors

• Want to help a senior hound? Beagle Rescue Queensland is always looking for donations, volunteers, and foster carers to support their life-saving work. You can view Beagles available for adoption or donate at beaglerescueqld.com.au.
• Paint Your Own Pet! These fabulous ‘Paint Your Pet’ sessions are now available in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, Goulburn, Penrith, Forster and more. Find them at paintjuicy.com.au/paint-your-pet.
• Ready to paint for a cause? To book a spot or host a charity fundraiser, visit paintjuicy.com.au and follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

The Step-Up in Care: Why CloudPaws is Engineering Better Mobility for Aussie Dogs

For many Australians, the journey to finding the "perfect" pet product begins with a personal frustration. For Queensland-based dog owner Kessin Guilfoyle, that frustration was the endless cycle of sub-par dog beds that promised comfort but delivered very little support.

After watching his own dog struggle to find a truly supportive place to rest, Kessin decided to stop searching and start engineering. The result was CloudPaws—a brand born from a simple mission: every dog, regardless of size, breed, or age, deserves a life with less pain and more restorative rest.

“Because a well-rested dog is a happy dog,” Kessin says. “And that makes everything better.”

As we celebrate Responsible Animal Guardian Month this May, CloudPaws is helping Aussie owners look beyond diet and exercise to "joint preservation" within the home. For many dogs, the simple act of jumping onto a 60cm high bed or couch is equivalent to a human jumping off a wall twice their height.

The Science of the Incline: Re-thinking Pet Mobility

Traditional pet stairs are often a "missed opportunity" in pet health. Frequently made from hollow, rigid plastic or slippery wood, they can actually cause "micro-slips"—tiny muscular corrections a dog must make that lead to long-term ligament strain.

The CloudPaws Comfort Stairs are engineered with a focus on structural support and tactile security:

• Impact Reduction & Joint Sparing: The high-density supportive foam is specifically calibrated to absorb the vertical impact of a descent. This protects the carpal (wrist) and tarsal (ankle) joints from the repetitive jarring that contributes to early-onset arthritis. Unlike hard steps, the foam provides "give" that mimics a natural turf surface.
• IVDD Prevention for At-Risk Breeds: For "long and low" breeds like Dachshunds, Bassets, and Corgis, a single awkward jump can lead to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). These stairs provide a low-impact transition that maintains a neutral spinal position, removing the high-torque "launch and land" phase of getting onto furniture.

• Stability for Vision-Impaired Seniors: As dogs age, their confidence on elevated surfaces wanes due to fading vision or vestibular (balance) issues. The Comfort Stairs feature a weighted, non-slip base and wide, deep treads, providing the rock-solid stability required for a senior dog to feel safe moving independently.

Winter Mobility: The "Morning Stiff" Factor

In the colder Australian months, synovial fluid—the natural lubricant in a dog's joints—becomes more viscous (thicker). This makes the first jump of the morning particularly painful and dangerous for arthritic dogs. By implementing a "steps-only" routine, guardians can prevent that initial morning "cold-jump" injury, ensuring the joints are warmed up gradually through walking rather than leaping.

The Solace Cloud: Six Layers of Orthopaedic Recovery

While stairs protect the movement, the Solace Cloud Bed focuses on the science of restorative recovery. Most standard pet beds rely on a single layer of polyester fill that compresses within weeks, leaving the dog’s joints resting effectively on the hard floor.

The Solace Cloud is a milestone in Australian pet bedding, utilising a six-layer "sandwich" of medical-grade materials:

✔️ 25D High-Density Orthopaedic Sponge: This is the engine of the bed. Rated for high elasticity and sustained load-bearing (supporting giant breeds up to 110kg), it ensures the spine remains perfectly aligned without the "sag" found in budget alternatives.

✔️ 25D Eggshell Contouring Sponge: This layer serves a dual purpose: weight distribution and thermal regulation. The "egg-crate" profile allows air to circulate between the layers—a critical feature for the Australian climate—keeping the dog insulated in winter but cool in summer.

✔️ Dual-Barrier TPU Waterproofing: Hygiene is a major factor in long-term joint health. CloudPaws has implemented two separate TPU-coated inner sleeves. This 360-degree protection ensures that the internal foam stays sterile and bone-dry, even if a senior dog suffers from incontinence or a puppy brings in wet paws.

✔️ Boucle Coil Velvet Outer Cover: This home-textile grade fabric isn't just for aesthetics. The high-density "coil" texture provides a tactile sense of security while acting as a premium insulator against cold floor drafts.

Safety on the Road: The Co-Pilot Booster System

The concept of the "Responsible Guardian" extends to the car.

In the event of a 50km/h collision, an unrestrained 10kg dog becomes a 300kg projectile. 

The Co-Pilot Car Seat addresses this by transforming the car ride from a stressful balancing act into a secure, elevated experience.

• Dual-Point Safety System: The seat is not a loose cushion; it integrates directly into the vehicle's seatbelt system through rear loops. Furthermore, an internal heavy-duty safety leash attaches to the dog’s harness, ensuring they remain in the seat and away from the driver’s lap during sudden braking or sharp turns.

• Reducing Vestibular Anxiety: Many dogs experience "car sickness" because they cannot see the horizon, leading to a sensory mismatch in the inner ear. The Co-Pilot’s elevated design boosts the dog’s height, allowing them to look out the window. This visual reference often instantly cures travel-induced nausea and "shaking" in the car.

• High-Walled "Denning" Construction: The thick, bolstered walls provide a "bumpers" effect. For dogs who feel unsettled by the movement of the car, these walls offer physical boundaries that trigger a calming instinct, allowing them to settle rather than pace.

The Verdict: Redefining Australian Pet Essentials

What sets the CloudPaws range apart is the focus on longevity and modularity. All components—from the foam layers to the boucle covers—are detachable and maintainable. This reflects a shift away from "disposable" pet products toward high-quality investments that support a dog through every life stage, from a rambunctious puppy to a delicate senior.

Whether they are a bouncy pup, a giant breed, or a senior dog with achy joints, CloudPaws is positioned at the forefront of the movement toward better canine wellbeing.

Exclusive ADL Offer

In honour of Responsible Animal Guardian Month, CloudPaws is helping Australian Dog Lover readers upgrade their home and travel setups.

👉 Use the code AUSDOGLOVERS15 for 15% off your total order.

Explore the full technical range and see the detailed specifications at www.cloudpaws.com.

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Similar Articles You Might Enjoy:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs – A comprehensive guide to understanding spinal issues, symptoms, and long-term management.
• Dog Osteoarthritis Pain: A Silent Crisis – New research reveals why many Australian dog owners are unaware their pets are suffering in silence.
• Helping Senior Dogs Thrive – Expert tips on how to adapt your care and environment as your dog enters their golden years.

The Hidden Roommate: Why Australian Vets Are Warning Families About Zoonotic Parasite Risks

In the modern Australian home, dogs are no longer just "pets"—they are full-fledged family members. They share our living spaces, join us on coastal holidays, and more often than not, find a spot at the foot of the bed. While this "humanisation" of our pets has bolstered our mental wellbeing, it has also created a new frontier for public health.

According to leading veterinarians, the closer we get to our dogs, the more vigilant we must become about zoonotic parasites—organisms that can jump the species gap from animals to humans.

A new independent study conducted by Advocate™ Ultra Chew in partnership with PureProfile [1] has highlighted a worrying "awareness gap" across the country. After surveying more than 1,000 dog owners, the data revealed that over one in three (35%) were completely unaware that common canine parasites like hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms can directly impact human health.

The Invisible Threat: Why "Scooting" Isn't the Only Sign

When most owners think of tapeworms, they look for the classic "bum scooting" behaviour. However, the science suggests we are looking for the wrong things. While 42% of owners in the survey reported seeing symptoms that could indicate an infection, the reality is that the majority of tapeworm cases remain entirely invisible.

Dr. Liisa Ahlstrom, Technical Services Veterinarian at Elanco, explains that this "silent" nature is what makes the parasites so successful—and so risky.

“Canine parasites are more than just a nuisance," says Dr. Ahlstrom. "They can have serious and even life-threatening consequences for both dogs and the people they live with. Because the signs are often non-existent, infections can go unnoticed for months, increasing the window of risk for the whole family.”

Breaking Down the Zoonotic Risks

1. The Hydatid Tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus): This is the "high-stakes" parasite. Typically found in dogs that explore off-leash in areas with livestock or wildlife, or those fed raw offal, it poses a severe risk to humans. In people, it can cause Hydatid disease, where large cysts slowly form in vital organs like the lungs, liver, and even the brain. These cysts are not only difficult to treat but can be life-threatening if they rupture.

2. The Flea Tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum): This is the most common variety found in suburban Australian homes. It is transmitted when a pet ingests an infected flea during grooming. While less dangerous than the Hydatid variety, it is particularly distressing for families with young children. If a child accidentally ingests an infected flea, they can develop intestinal upset and the highly unpleasant experience of tapeworm segments in their underwear or stool.

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A Shift in Veterinary Protection: Introducing Advocate™ Ultra Chew

Historically, parasite protection in Australia was a "pick and mix" approach—one product for fleas, another for heartworm, and perhaps a separate tablet for intestinal worms. However, as parasites become a year-round threat due to changing climates and increased pet travel, vets are moving toward "all-in-one" simplicity.

The launch of Advocate™ Ultra Chew represents a significant milestone in Australian veterinary medicine. Designed to simplify protection for busy pet owners, it is the first monthly, all-in-one palatable chew in Australia formulated to include specific protection against tapeworms.

By combining four active ingredients into a single dose, it delivers the broadest spectrum of coverage [2] currently available in a monthly chew. This comprehensive formula is specifically engineered to protect against:

• Fleas: Rapidly killing and preventing infestations.

• Ticks: Including the deadly paralysis tick, brown dog ticks, and bush ticks.

• Heartworm: Providing essential monthly prevention against this silent killer.

• Intestinal Worms: Covering roundworms, hookworms, and crucially, tapeworms.

• Demodex Mites: Which can cause Demodectic Mange, leading to skin irritation, hair loss, and secondary infections if left untreated.

By closing the gap on tapeworm protection within a single chew, the product addresses the "invisible" risks that often go untreated by standard monthly routines, ensuring both the dog and the family remain protected.

Top Wellness Tips for Pet-Friendly Homes

To keep your household a "health-first" environment, Dr. Ahlstrom recommends integrating these four habits into your lifestyle:

✔  Year-Round Vigilance: Parasites don't take a winter break in Australia. Use a monthly all-in-one product like Advocate™ Ultra Chew to ensure there are no gaps in coverage.

✔  The Travel Check: If you are heading on a road trip, consult your vet first. Different regions have different parasite pressures (such as the high tick density on the East Coast).

✔  Strict Hygiene Protocols: It sounds simple, but washing hands after outdoor play and before meals is the most effective barrier against microscopic worm eggs.

✔  Dietary Safety: Never feed your dog untreated raw meat or offal. If you prefer the benefits of a raw diet, ensure you are following the latest safety standards as seen in Australia’s raw dog food revolution. Always ensure the ingredients are sourced from human-grade suppliers and handled with the same care as your own food.

By closing the awareness gap and simplifying the treatment routine, Australian dog owners can enjoy the benefits of a close bond with their pets without the hidden health risks.

More Information

To learn more about comprehensive parasite protection or to find out if this solution is right for your pet, visit the Advocate™ Ultra Chew official site.

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References

1. Independent research conducted by Advocate™ Ultra Chew in partnership with PureProfile, surveying 1,001 Australian dog owners, December 2025.

2. Broadest spectrum of coverage based on a comparison of monthly oral parasite treatments for dogs currently available in Australia as of May 2026.

About Elanco

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated is a global leader in animal health, dedicated to innovating and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. With nearly 70 years of animal health heritage, Elanco is committed to helping customers improve the health of animals in their care while making a meaningful impact on local and global communities. Driven by a vision of "Food and Companionship Enriching Life," Elanco works to advance the health of animals, people, and the planet.

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Related Stories you might like:

• The Essential Australian Dog Tick Prevention Guide

• April is Heartworm Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

• Demodectic Mange in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment