The Silent Ranks: Honouring Our Service Dogs this ANZAC Day

As we approach ANZAC Day, we pause to remember all those who served—including the ones who stood on four legs. From the police precincts of North Queensland to the frontline trenches of Ukraine, the bond between a handler and their dog is a story of courage that transcends borders. 

This month, we are proud to spotlight two extraordinary new releases from Big Sky Publishing: Vader by David Raymond and Dogs of War by Nigel Allsopp.

ANZAC Day is a time of reflection, a day to honour the "mateship" that defines the Australian spirit. Often, that mateship extends to the canine partners who track through the scrub, detect the undetectable, and provide a lifeline of comfort in the chaos of conflict.

To mark this period of remembrance, we are running a special promotion from April 8 to April 20, giving away four books in total (two copies of each title) to readers who appreciate the incredible legacy of our service animals.

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The Legend of the North: Vader by David Raymond

In the tropical heat of North Queensland, one police dog’s courage became the stuff of legend. For six years, Police Dog Vader (No. 239) was more than a badge; he was the loyal, fearless partner of Sergeant David Raymond.

Vader didn't just walk a beat; he lived a life of cinematic bravery. From abseiling out of helicopters to patrolling on Water Police vessels, he was a fixture in the most high-pressure environments. He was frequently seen vested up and ready for action with the armoured BearCat tactical vehicle, a testament to his role in the Far North District’s most critical missions.

His career was defined by heart-stopping moments, such as the time he jumped into a moving vehicle to apprehend a serial car thief who had evaded capture for 18 months. Whether it was tracking through muddy mangroves or facing down armed offenders, Vader never shied away from the job.

A Force to Follow

Fast, accurate, and unrelenting, Vader possessed a sense for the trail that was almost supernatural. But the bond was also deeply personal—and occasionally humorous. Sergeant Raymond recalls that the partnership was a two-way street:

“Sometimes Vader would give me a look that clearly said, ‘You go first.’ But between the two of us, we always found a way.”

A Legacy Beyond the Badge

While the world saw a fierce protector who recorded 161 locations and arrests in the Cairns area alone, Sergeant Raymond saw his best mate.

“He is the best dog I’ve ever had,” Dave shared. “One of my favourite memories was a track that lasted 90 minutes, over 20 fences and through multiple creeks. I was a tad puffed, but Vader was unrelenting until he got his man.”

Vader’s heart was as big as his record. He saved eleven people in mental health crises and once swam into the Barron River to retrieve an unconscious man from the mangroves.

Perhaps most touchingly, in his final weeks, the 10-year-old veteran was acting as an "Education Training Officer" for the squad's newest recruit, PD Axel, passing on his wisdom to the next generation before passing away due to natural causes just before his official retirement.

Vader’s face is now immortalised on the Police Dog Squad Memorial at the Queensland Police Academy—a testament to a dog who never shied away from a job.

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The Global Guardians: Dogs of War by Nigel Allsopp

While Vader’s legend grew in the Queensland bush, other "four-legged diggers" were being forged in the fires of international conflict. Dogs of War reveals the stories we rarely hear—the ones that stay with soldiers long after the war is over. From the frozen training grounds of Norway to the jungles of East Timor and the bomb-scarred streets of Ukraine, these remarkable animals have served in every climate and conflict imaginable.

More Than "Equipment"

Author Nigel Allsopp, a veteran with over three decades of experience, has a deep, personal connection to these stories. As we’ve covered previously on Australian Dog Lover, Nigel has spent months in war-torn Ukraine overseeing the distribution of half a million dollars in aid and training locals in advanced K9 First Aid to treat blast wounds and trauma.

In Dogs of War, he writes with a passionate mission: to ensure the deeds and sacrifices of these canine heroes are never forgotten. As the book illustrates, these dogs are far more than a tactical advantage; they are an extension of the soldier’s own senses and, above all, a mate.

“They weren’t born to fight. But they chose to stand beside us. More than heroes, these dogs were lifelines—loyal, fearless, unforgettable.”

The Ironclad Bond

Whether they're special operations canines leaping into danger or mascots who became the heartbeat of a platoon, the bond between handler and dog is ironclad. Dogs of War features first-hand accounts of:

• Combat Canines: Transitioning from rescue dogs to warriors, trusting their lives to their human partners.

• The Weight of War: Tracking enemies and detecting explosives in the world’s most dangerous zip codes.

• The Healing Power: Providing comfort under fire and a "nuzzle after a firefight" that offers a rare moment of peace.

These are the accounts of soldiers who trusted their lives to a dog—and dogs who asked for nothing in return but a pat on the head. 

This collection is a powerful tribute to the courage and unwavering companionship of the animals who carried the weight of war alongside those who led them.

Giving Back: In the true spirit of ANZAC Day, royalties from this book are donated to the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO), continuing the mission to honour the animals who serve beside us.

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Choose Your Story: The Big Sky Giveaway

We want to put these incredible stories into the hands of those who will cherish them most. We have four books to give away (2 copies of Vader and 2 copies of Dogs of War), but there’s a catch—you have to choose your mission!

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HOW TO ENTER

To be in the running to win one of 4 individual books (2 x copies of Vader and 2 x copies of Dogs of War), please complete the following steps:

1. Like our giveaway post (08/04/26) and Follow our Facebook page and/or Instagram account.

2. The Entry Question - Tell us:

   • Which book are you most interested in reading? (Vader or Dogs of War)  AND

   • Why does that particular story resonate with you?

Entries should be submitted via our Facebook or Instagram page.

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Terms & Conditions

Dates: Competition will open Wednesday 8th April 2026 (6:00pm, AEST) and will close Monday 20th April 2026 (11:59pm, AEST). Open to Australian residents only.

Delivery: Please allow 1-2 weeks for delivery directly from the Publisher, Big Sky Publishing.

To Enter: Like our post (08/04/26) + answer the prompt above via the Australian Dog Lover Facebook or Instagram page.

Judging: This is a game of skill. Entries will be judged by the Australian Dog Lover team based on the most creative, informative, or heartfelt statement.

Limits: Entrants may only enter once.

Claiming: Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be redrawn.

*Entry into the competition is deemed acceptance of all terms and conditions.

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Why These Stories Matter

Whether it’s the nuzzle of a dog after a firefight or the thunder of a big black dog tearing down a trail, these moments remind us of the incredible depth of the human-canine bond. This ANZAC Day, as we say "Lest We Forget," we also remember the heroes with wagging tails.

The Backyard Invention Redefining the Aussie Adventure Dog

From Pacing to Peace: How a Restless Dog Named Ziva Inspired the Ultimate Outdoor Sanctuary.

Every Australian dog owner who has ever spent a night under the stars knows the "Paw Patrol" dance. You’ve finally got the fire crackling, your camp chair is perfectly positioned, and the kettle is on. You’re ready to relax. But your dog? Your dog is stuck in a loop. They circle the fire. They pace the perimeter of the tent. They try to settle on a patch of cold, uneven dirt, only to jump up at the snap of a twig thirty seconds later.

For Michael Goritsas, a Sydney-based adventurer and dog lover, this wasn't just a minor camping annoyance—it was a heart-breaking barrier to bringing his dog, Ziva, along for the ride. Ziva never "switched off." One crackle of a leaf and she was up again, guarding, watching, and never truly resting. Michael tried everything: jackets for warmth, blankets for comfort, and shifting her spot around the campfire. Nothing stuck.

"I’d end up with a cold lap and a dog that couldn’t relax," Michael recalls. "She’d settle for a minute, then be back on paw patrol."

It was out of this frustration—and a deep desire to give his best friend the same comfort he enjoyed by the fire—that The Outbark was born. It wasn't meant to be a commercial product; it was simply a backyard solution built the hard way.

The Backyard Prototype: Engineering a Sense of Security

Michael’s philosophy was simple: Ziva needed a place of her own. Not a flimsy, soft bed that would soak up the morning dew or a thin mat that offered no protection from the rocky ground. She needed something elevated. Something solid. A spot that felt safe and defined, but kept her close to her "pack."

The first version of what has now evolved into the Best Friend Camp Chair came together in a Sydney backyard. Using steel, heavy-duty fabric, and a "trial and error" approach to assembly, Michael built a raised platform. "It wasn’t perfect," he says. "It didn’t need to be. It just had to work."

The true test came the moment the last screw was tightened. Ziva didn't need to be coaxed or trained to use it. She stepped onto the raised seat before Michael had even finished the build. She turned once, lay down, and—for the first time in their camping history—she didn't move.

"She slept so hard I checked she was still breathing," Michael says. 

"No circling. No getting up at every sound. That’s when I knew it worked."

Built the Hard Way: Real-World Testing for Australian Conditions

When friends saw Ziva’s transformation, the requests started pouring in. "Can you make one for my dog too?" became the catalyst for The Outbark’s evolution from a DIY project into a premium Australian outdoor brand.

But Michael refused to take shortcuts. In a world of mass-produced, flimsy pet accessories, he stayed true to the "Ziva Standard." Every iteration of the chair has been put through the wringer in real-world Australian conditions. This isn't gear designed for a manicured lawn; it’s gear built for the red dust of the Centre, the salt air of the Sunshine Coast, and the uneven, muddy tracks of the Victorian High Country.

"Real ground is uneven, dusty, and wet," Michael explains. "Real use means being tossed in and out of trucks, set up, packed down, and repeated over and over. And real dogs? They dig, they drool, and they don't care how the gear looks."

The "Best Friend" Features: Why It Stands Alone

At 90cm wide, the Best Friend Camp Chair is a spacious sanctuary designed to end the juggle of beds, blankets, and flimsy chairs. The beauty lies in the technical details Michael perfected to ensure both dog and owner can relax properly:

• Adventure-Tough Fabrics: The chair uses premium 600D Oxford fabric. It’s engineered to be "dog-soft" for comfort, yet "adventure-tough" enough to repel dirt, water, and the inevitable wear and tear of claws and grit.

• Rock-Solid Stability: Lightweight, ultra-tough steel legs deliver stability on any terrain. Engineered with a massive 150kg weight capacity, it's combined with specialised anti-sink feet to ensure your dog stays level and secure even on sand, mud, or soft bush ground.

• Dual-Season Comfort: For hot summer days, integrated tear-proof breathable mesh allows for natural airflow. For colder nights, the removable 600D Oxford cushion delivers cosy warmth and pops off for effortless cleaning.

• The Human Element: Michael hasn't forgotten the owners. The chair includes a built-in cup holder to keep your drink secure, plus back storage pockets to keep leashes, toys, and camping essentials organised and off the ground.

• Caravan-Ready Portability: Despite the generous resting area, the chair folds down to just 95cm (H) x 30cm (W) x 22cm (D), making it a perfect fit for caravan tunnels or packed SUVs.

Redefining the Outdoor Experience

At its core, The Outbark is about removing the "hassle" from the adventure. By giving a dog a designated, elevated "home base," owners find their dogs are calmer, cleaner, and more integrated into the social circle of the campfire or the backyard BBQ.

"The Outbark is about making it easier to bring your dog along," Michael says.

"It’s about giving them a spot they trust. Close by. Wherever you are. If it handles my dog, it’ll handle yours. See you by the fire. Ziva’s already taken your spot."

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Price & Where to Buy

RRP: $299 AUD (free shipping). The Outbark Best Friend Camp Chair is available online at www.theoutbark.com.au

The Outbark offers Australia-wide shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, ensuring you and your dog can adventure with total peace of mind.

Follow The Outbark: 

• Instagram: @theoutbarkco 
• Facebook: The Outbark

Purpose Meets Protection: The RSPCA Reclaims its Pet Insurance Mission

A New Day for Animals: RSPCA and Pacific International Insurance leadership unite at Sydney Harbour to launch the new RSPCA Pet Insurance.
Front: Dr. Katrina Warren with the Border Collie and Dr. Emily Lucas with the wire-haired dog. Back: Dr. Andrew Marchevsky, Dr. Melissa Meehan, and RSPCA Pet Insurance CEO Brad Smith.

 

As of 1 April 2026, RSPCA Pet Insurance has entered a new era. Through a strategic partnership with Pacific International Insurance, the RSPCA has moved beyond a traditional underwriting model to take a seat at the governance table. This shift gives Australia’s leading animal welfare charity a direct voice in policy decision-making and ensures that premiums contribute more than ever before to animal care initiatives.

Is Your Premium Still Helping Animals?

There is a crucial detail for existing policyholders: Any RSPCA-branded policy started before 1 April 2026 stayed with the previous underwriter and no longer contributes to the RSPCA.

"We warmly invite all such customers to 'come home' to the new RSPCA Pet Insurance," says CEO Brad Smith. 

To make the move easy, the new model offers:

• No new exclusion periods.

• Cover for previously claimed conditions (up to your annual limit and benefit percentage).

• Direct contribution to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of neglected animals.

Solving the "Surrender" Crisis

This launch addresses a heart-breaking reality in Australian homes. Research from the Animal Medicines Australia 2025 report reveals that while there are 13.2 million pets in Australia, over 80% are uninsured.

The consequences are stark: 23% of pet owners have surrendered an animal because they could no longer afford care, and nearly 1 in 5 cat owners are deferring vaccinations due to costs. The new RSPCA model aims to lower these barriers through transparency and financial flexibility.

United for Animal Welfare: The strategic partnership team at the official launch. From left: Dr. Andrew Marchevsky, Dr. Emily Lucas, Dr. Melissa Meehan, RSPCA Australia CEO Richard Mussell, Dr. Katrina Warren, RSPCA Pet Insurance CEO Brad Smith, and Rick Claughton (Pacific International Insurance). Credit: Cassandra Hannagan.

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PetFlex: Customised, Not Pre-Packaged

The core of the new offering is PetFlex, a system designed to end "rigid tier" insurance. Instead of choosing a generic Bronze or Gold plan, owners can build a policy around their specific budget and their pet's actual needs.

• Control the Cost: Customers select their own Annual Limit, Benefit Percentage, and Excess level.

• Premium Protection: Annual limits are available up to $35,000 with no sub-limits and a single annual excess.

• Specialised Add-ons: Policies can be expanded to include:

  • Dental Illness: Coverage for essential dog dental care, including treatments for common issues like gingivitis and periodontal disease.

  • Behavioural Conditions: Support for issues like excessive licking or aggression, which can often be linked to underlying medical causes or chronic pain.

  • Supportive Therapies: Providing coverage for treatments like veterinary acupuncture and hydrotherapy for rehabilitation and senior dog mobility.

  • Routine Care: Assistance with annual health checks, essential vaccinations, and microchipping.

Direct2Vet: Ending the Reimbursement Wait

To remove "financial friction," the new Direct2Vet system changes how claims are paid. Rather than requiring owners to pay a massive bill upfront and wait for a refund, customers now only pay the gap (the difference between the bill and their cover) at the time of the visit. The clinic submits the invoice, and the approved claim is paid directly to the practice, allowing owners to focus on their pet’s recovery rather than their credit card balance.

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Impact by the Numbers

As an independent charity with minimal government funding, the RSPCA relies on these partnerships to sustain its frontline work. In 2025 alone, the impact of these funds supported:

• 77,000+ animals rescued, rehabilitated, or rehomed.

• 55,000+ cruelty complaints investigated.

• 11,000 inspector site visits to ensure animal safety.

"By choosing RSPCA Pet Insurance from today onwards," Smith says, "you're not just protecting your pet, you're helping fund programs that extend care to animals beyond your own backyard."

For more information or to switch back, visit www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au

Related News: Is your pup the next RSPCA Pet of the Year?

While you’re protecting your pet’s future, why not celebrate their present?
The 2026 RSPCA Pet of the Year Awards are officially open, with over $25,000 in prizes across 6 categories and a search for Australia's "little legends."

Whether you have the Cutest Dog or a Best Rescue story that deserves the spotlight, your entry helps raise vital funds for RSPCA animals in need.

Read the full story and enter the 2026 Awards here.

As the April air turns crisp, our selection explores the profound work that defines our lives with dogs. This month, we move beyond the surface of pet ownership to delve into the high-stakes world of police and military K9s, the emotional grit of the assistance dog journey, and the evolving science of vet CPR standards. Whether you are navigating the reality of owner-training or honouring the "four-legged diggers" of our history, these titles reflect a deeper, more informed partnership with our canine protectors.

Our bumper Kids’ Corner arrives just in time for the Autumn school holidays, celebrating the high-energy joy and magical wonder of childhood pets. From the rhythmic excitement of a backyard chase to inclusive stories of service pups and "dog-tuned" enrichment, this collection is designed to engage every type of young reader.

YOSHI AND ME

How a Golden Dog Taught Me to Stay
by Yevette Ho (Author)

What happens when you need a dog to save you - but you're the one who has to train her?

Living with PTSD, chronic illness, and the daily barriers of disability, Yevette Ho never imagined that a golden retriever puppy would become her lifeline. Yoshi and Me is a raw, funny, and deeply moving memoir about survival, stubborn hope, and the unbreakable bond between human and dog.

Unlike polished tales of ready-trained service animals, this is the messy, honest story of what it means to raise and train your own assistance dog. From sleepless nights and chaotic puppyhood to breakthroughs in behaviour, disability access battles, and the nerve-wracking journey toward the Public Access Test (PAT), Yoshi proves that she's more than a dog - she's a partner in independence.

Blending heartfelt memoir with practical insight, this book explores:

✔️ The realities of owner-trained assistance dogs
✔️ The difference between emotional support animals and service dogs
✔️ The struggles and triumphs of living with PTSD and chronic illness
✔️ The humour, frustration, and joy of training a golden retriever with a purpose

At its core, Yoshi and Me is about resilience, love, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going - with muddy paws, wagging tails, and plenty of dog hair along the way.

Read More: For a deeper look at the legal and ethical framework of owner-training in Australia, don't miss our exclusive feature: The Reality of Owner-Trained Assistance Dogs.

Perfect for readers who love service dog memoirs, disability lived experience, dog training stories, or uplifting tales of survival and companionship.

Publisher: Vetz Media Publishing, 28 September 2025
Paperback,‎ 182 pages

Price: $28.59 from www.booktopia.com.au

VADER: The Legend of K9-239
by David Raymond

In the rugged terrain of North Queensland, one name commanded immediate respect: Police Dog Vader. For five years, this formidable German Shepherd and his handler, Sergeant David Raymond, formed one of the most effective K9 teams in the Queensland Police Service.

Vader is the gripping true account of their partnership—a bond forged in the humidity of Cairns and tested in the adrenaline of high-stakes manhunts. From tracking violent fugitives through dense scrub to the life-saving rescues of missing persons, the book captures the raw reality of life on the thin blue line.

David Raymond doesn't just chronicle the heroism; he shares the humour and the heartbreak of working with a partner who was as relentless as he was loyal. It is a powerful tribute to a dog that caught over 160 offenders and left an indelible mark on the community he was sworn to protect.

Why We Love It 

"More than a career retrospective, this is a masterclass in the human-canine bond. Vader wasn't just a tool for law enforcement; he was a force of nature with a personality to match."

Vader’s legacy is a must-read for any fan of our blue-light heroes. Win 1 of 2 copies of Vader in our current giveaway — Enter before April 20.

Paperback,‎ 320 pages

Publisher: ‎Big Sky Publishing, 26 August 2025

Price: $26.11 at amazon.com.au

DOGS OF WAR: Guardians of the Battlefield

by Nigel Allsopp

From the bomb-scarred streets of Ukraine to the deserts of Afghanistan, Dogs of War uncovers the untold stories of the canine heroes who stand where others won't. These aren't just animals of burden; they are elite trackers, explosive detectors, and the emotional lifelines for soldiers facing the chaos of conflict.

Through first-hand accounts from handlers and trainers, veteran K9 expert Nigel Allsopp explores the unbreakable bond forged in the heat of battle. 

This collection honours the "four-legged diggers"—from rescue dogs turned warriors to silent sentries—whose loyalty and sacrifice remain etched in the hearts of those they served alongside.

Why We Love It 

"As we approach ANZAC Day, this is a powerful reminder of the silent service provided by our war animals. Nigel Allsopp doesn't just write about these dogs; he lives the mission, with royalties supporting the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO)."

Win 1 of 2 copies of Dogs of War in our current giveaway — Enter before April 20.

Hardcover, ‎336 pages
Publisher‏: Big Sky Publishing, 25 November 2025

Price: $29.75 from www.amazon.com.au

THE DOGWALKERS’ DETECTIVE AGENCY
by Michael Hogan (Author)

They've got a lot of leads, but can they collar a killer? A funny, delightfully twisty murder mystery pairing the nation's favourite genre with man's best friend!

When Charlie Boardman and his beloved Staffy, Ruby, stumble across a corpse in the woods, the sleepy coastal town of Framstone is rocked by the discovery that the local pub landlord has been murdered.

Charlie and his fellow dogwalkers take it upon themselves to try and sniff out any clues that might help the local police with their investigation.

But what begins as idle speculation and gossip quickly becomes something more sinister, when Charlie starts receiving anonymous threats warning him off the case.

Then, a second body washes up on the beach...

Can Charlie hunt down a killer, before he becomes the next victim?

Paperback, ‎ 480 pages
Publisher: ‎Penguin Books, Imprint: Michael Joseph, 20 January 2026

Price: $18.75 from www.amazon.com.au

IT’S A TOUGH JOB BEING A DOG
Life Through a Dog's Eyes
by Iain Welch

With charming watercolour artwork and witty, soulful captions, It's a Tough Job Being a Dog reminds us that behind every lick is plenty of hard-earned love.

In this tender and whimsical tribute to the quiet heroes in our homes, Iain Welch invites readers into the delightful world of his beloved canine characters.

From the quiet nobility of guarding the sofa to the daily drama of squirrels and surviving terrifying vacuum monsters, these dogs face life's ups and downs with unwavering heart and wagging tails.

Perfect for dog lovers of all ages, this collection reminds us that while being a dog isn't always easy, it's always filled with love, loyalty and the occasional muddy pawprint. These charming stories, brought to life with delightful art, prove that being man's best friend is no walk in the park.

Hardcover, 128 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 12th March 2026

RRP:$30.75 from www.booktopia.com.au

ADVANCED CANINE AND FELINE CPR AND EMERGENCY LIFE SUPPORT 
by Amy D'Andrea (Author), Gregory D'Andrea (Editor)

In a pet emergency, the first few minutes are the most critical. 

This definitive guide from Pet Emergency Education, LLC provides a vital overhaul of emergency protocols, based on the 2024 RECOVER Initiative updates—the first major revision of veterinary CPR guidelines in over a decade.

Designed for both veterinary professionals and high-stakes pet industries (groomers, trainers, and first responders), this manual moves beyond basic first aid. It delivers step-by-step instructions for:

• The 2024 CPR Overhaul: Updated compression rates and rescue breathing techniques for dogs and cats.

• Professional Triage: Rapid assessment protocols to prioritise care during multi-animal crises or disasters.

• Critical Care: Handling shock, heatstroke, and trauma with the latest evidence-based safe restraint and transport methods.

Whether you are a pet parent or an industry pro, this resource ensures you are acting on the most current, life-saving science available in 2026.

Paperback, 125 pages
Publisher:‎ Independently published, ‎ 18 September 2025

Price: $50.01 at www.amazon.com.au

BOOK CLUB - KIDS CORNER

ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO DOGS AND PUPPIES FOR KIDS
Everything You Need to Know about Breeds, Training, Safety, and More!
by Lynn Guelzow

You've got a new puppy or dog--now what? This guide will help you learn how to build a wonderful relationship, keep your new puppy healthy and happy, and avoid common mistakes of first-time dog and puppy owners.

Whether you have a dog, are thinking about getting a dog, or just love puppies and dogs, this guide is packed with the essential information, tips, and advice that every dog-loving kid will enjoy.

Every chapter begins with a short story to introduce the topic and engage the reader. Stories are short but lead directly into the information, showing the importance in everyday situations from destructive puppy chewing to sports and games to play with a dog. Adorable pictures and photos aid in understanding, as well as keeping a young reader interested.

The Absolute Beginners Guide to Dogs and Puppies covers a lot of important topics including:

✔️ Preparing your home for a new dog
✔️ Dog breeds and their characteristics
✔️ Amazing dogs in movies, books and real-life heroes
✔️ House-training
✔️ Basic obedience
✔️ Nutrition and health care
✔️ Unique needs of puppies and young dogs
✔️ Domestication of wolves into dogs
And so much more

Series: Best Beginner's Guide for Kids with Pets
Paperback, 160 pages
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing, Inc., 15 April 2026
For Ages: 8 - 12 years old

Price: $18.75 at www.amazon.com.au

PAWS: THE TROUBLE WITH LEO
by Nathan Fairbairn (Author), Michele Assarasakorn (Illustrator)

The girls of PAWS have a bone to pick with a group of rival (BOY! Ugh.) dog walkers...

It's been seven whole dog years of PAWS (or just one if you're a human), and the girls' business is at an all-time high! But after a run-in with Gabby's arch-nemesis, Leo, things take a turn - and Leo leaves the girls with a message- "You're not the only one who can walk dogs..."

Sure enough, it's not long before the PAWS girls notice flyers advertising a new dog walking business, SCAMPS - and Leo is behind it! And when Gabby and Mindy take some not-so-righteous revenge on the boys, what was a little healthy competition turns into an all-out turf war.

As the battle between the two groups escalates, with neither side is playing fair, the girls are forced to consider... just WHO is the real bad guy here... ?

Paperback, 176 pages
Publisher: Puffin, 24 March 2026
For Ages: 9-11 years old

Price: $14.99 from www.amazon.com.au

THE BOY AND THE DOG TREE 
by Fiona Wood (Author)

Magical. Whimsical. Wild. This exceptional middle-grade novel about the special bond between a boy and his dog will set your heart free.

'So, are you my dog?' Mitch whispered, hardly daring to ask.
'No,' said Argos. 'But you are my boy. For a time.'

Mitch's life has been uprooted. Instead of the whole family moving to a new city, Mitch and his sister are staying with their gran while their parents are stuck on the other side of the world. As he struggles to fit in at school, with the Grade Five bully picking on him, Mitch knows the one thing that would make his life better is a dog. If only he could persuade his parents.

Then Mitch discovers an old oak tree that seems to ... growl. And one night, a strange, majestic dog-like creature emerges from the trunk. His name is Argos. He has been bound in the tree by 'history, mystery, magic and chance' and he is here to help Mitch find his way.

While at first Mitch looks to Argos for friendship and protection, there comes a time he must stand up for this wild and magical beast.

A heart-lifting tale of friendship, courage and belonging by three-time CBCA Award-winning author Fiona Wood.

Paperback, 256 pages
Publisher: University of Queensland Press, 3 March 2026
For Ages: ‎ 7 - 10 years

Price: $16.75 from www.amazon.com.au

ANDY: A DOG’S TALE 
by John Kelly (Author), Canine Companions Ignite Animation Studios (Producer)

Adapted from the award-winning short film, this heart-warming picture book follows Andy—the smallest puppy in his litter—as he overcomes adversity to discover his purpose as a service dog. 

From his early days of training to his eventual placement, the story mirrors the real-world dedication and bond required to prepare Canine Companions for people with disabilities. 

It is an uplifting tale of resilience and compassion, proving that even the smallest beginnings can lead to a life of extraordinary purpose.

Hardcover, ‎32 pages
Publisher: ‎The Collective Book Studio, 16 December 2025
For Ages: 4 - 8 years

Price: $32.59 at www.amazon.com.au

A TAIL OF TWO DOGS
Friendship, bravery, and discovering your own magic
by Shannon Faye, Timothy A

Featuring expressive watercolour illustrations, A Tail of Two Dogs follows the journey of two canine friends, Eloise and Z, as they navigate a world of change. 

Written with cross-generational appeal, this story serves as a calming read-aloud that invites readers to stay grounded in the present moment. 

By focusing on the bond between the two dogs, it transforms the concept of "change" from something to fear into an opportunity for resilience and growth.

Paperback, 44 pages
Publisher: Balboa Press, 30th January 2026
For Ages: 4 - 8 years

Price: $32.78 from www.amazon.com.au

ARE YOU THE GOODEST DOG?
by N.G. Welis | Illustrated by Milia Finn

Part of the Books to Read to Dogs series, this rhyming picture book is written to be narrated directly to a canine audience. 

The story follows a dog’s daily perspective, celebrating familiar habits like "peemail" checks, enthusiastic sniffing, and bed-hogging.
The book utilises a specific "Dog Tuned™" reading rhythm—incorporating intentional pauses and elongated phrasing—designed to help dogs settle and connect with the sound of a human voice. 

It includes a guide at the back for readers looking to use the story for calming enrichment or as a tool for children practicing their literacy skills with a non-judgmental furry listener.

Paperback,‎ 35 pages

Publisher: Best DOG'S Life Publishing, 18 February 2026
For Ages: 4-8 years old

Price: $15.52 at www.amazon.com.au

THE CHASE
by Jenny Bloomfield (Author)

FETCH!

A girl on a beach throws a ball for one eager little dog.

Suddenly one dog becomes two--three--TEN leaping, bounding doggies, hot on its trail! The chase is on: who will be the lucky pup to fetch the bright red prize?

The race leads them down the beach, through the city, into the museum; high up over the city balanced on an iron girder; through the park down the river, until: what's that rumbling sound? Oh dear! But not even a thundering waterfall will stop these determined dogs from chasing down that ball...

An utter joy from beginning to end, this book combines the charm--and an adorable canine crew--of Hairy Maclary with the infectious rhythm and energy of We're Going on a Bear Hunt.

Paperback,‎ 34 pages
Publisher: ‎Frances Lincoln Ltd, 3 February 2026
For Ages: 3 - 5 years

Price: $16.95 from www.amazon.com.au

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