From "Defective" to Beloved: How Fella the Whippet Found His Fresh Start

Looking at dainty little Fella today, you’d never guess he was once surrendered for being “defective.”

This endlessly affectionate young Whippet was born with a severe cleft palate—a daunting 8cm hole along the roof of his snout. Because of that gap, food and water could easily pass into his nasal passages or even into his lungs. Every single mouthful was a hazard that could cause him to choke, gag, or struggle to breathe.

But at Lort Smith, the team believes a medical condition doesn’t make an animal defective, and it certainly doesn’t make them any less deserving of help.

The Complex Road to Repair

Cleft palate surgery is notoriously complex. Fella’s repair required a highly experienced surgeon, two hours in theatre, and weeks of dedicated foster care before he could even begin to truly heal.

Dr Kate, Veterinary Director at Lort Smith’s Campbellfield hospital, explains why this specific type of surgery is such a massive hurdle:

“Cleft palate surgery involves correcting a congenital flaw, which is very different to closing up a wound. It can be really challenging. A lot of them will break down, more often than not, because the surgery is on the roof of the mouth. The animal is still eating, and they’re still moving their tongue up and down.” 

Dr Kate notes that Fella was born with the condition, though the exact cause remains a mystery. "Sometimes things can happen in utero that affect it, or certain breed types can be more predisposed, but oftentimes we have no idea. Basically, it’s just a hole in his hard palate."

Left: A close-up view of Fella’s severe 8cm cleft palate. Right: Fella at the Lort Smith clinic before his complex surgery.

"When Fella first arrived the hospital, he was a mix of high energy and physical discomfort. When I assessed him, he was very boisterous, very bouncy, very bright. But very skinny," Dr Kate recalls. 

"Underweight, excessively panting, and salivating, he needed an environment where he could heal both physically and mentally. I think it was irritating for him at times. If you’re eating food and it’s getting stuck in the roof of your mouth, that would be annoying. 

Having all that handling around his mouth and cleaning was probably irritating him and giving him the pip."

Healing Hearts: Fella’s Foster Journey

To give Fella the best chance at recovery, he needed a quiet, loving sanctuary. Dominique, a former Lort Smith nurse and current foster carer, welcomed the fragile Whippet into her home.

At first, Fella carried the emotional weight of his rough start to life.

“He was really tense and anxious. He would startle at almost everything,” says Dominique. “We’ve got a really bad gate that swings and bangs, and it would freak Fella out every time.”

But with patience, gentle care, and an abundance of love, Fella slowly began to settle. Little by little, the frightened dog began to feel safe, and his true, affectionate personality blossomed. 

Dominique fondly remembers how Fella would curl up beside her family on the sofa—often squeezing in, even if he didn’t quite fit!

“He loved to sit on the couch with my husband and just sort of snuggled in," Dominique shares. 

"We’ve got two young boys, aged ten and eight. They can be extremely loud, so I was careful, but Fella allowed my boys all over him. If the boys were on the couch, he was as close to them as he could be. I’d even find he’d have snuck into bed with my boys and fallen asleep with them.”

Becoming Part of the Action

As Fella’s physical wounds healed, his confidence soared. Knowing that socialisation is key for a successful adoption, Dominique made sure Fella experienced the everyday joys of Australian family life.

“Fella came to everything," says Dominique. "Pool parties, park playdates, Christmas barbecues. It didn’t matter who was there—kids, toddlers, adults, whoever. Fella’s confidence grew and grew. He was beautifully affectionate with everyone.”

"For he's a jolly good Fella and so say all of us at Lort Smith!"

A Fresh Start Thanks to Everyday Champions

Following his incredible recovery, Fella is now a happy chappy, full of love and light, and ready for a fresh start with a family that will cherish him.

Fella’s transformation is a testament to the extraordinary ecosystem of care at Lort Smith. As Dr Kate puts it:

“Our staff see a lot, every day, they experience a lot, and they keep on coming back to do it again the next day. This unquestionable commitment to pets is extraordinary. They’re not defective. They’re deserving of our kindness and our care.” 

Because Lort Smith receives no ongoing government funding to keep their animal hospitals and shelter running, every single cent of Fella's life-saving care came directly from kind-hearted supporters.

How You Can Help

Lort Smith’s Winter Appeal is now underway with a target of just under half a million dollars to keep their vital services going through the colder months. Your generosity ensures that pets who might otherwise have been overlooked or given up on get the second chance they deserve.

Together, we can ensure pets like Fella are seen for what they truly are: pure love.

To help more pets get their happy ending, please consider donating to the Lort Smith Winter Appeal today.

Donate to Lort Smith’s Winter Appeal

🐾 Related Stories: Inspiring Pups Living Large with Extra Needs

Loved Fella's journey? Discover more incredible Australian rescue dogs who prove that a disability or medical condition is no barrier to a happy, love-filled life:

Stormi the Blind Staffy Steals the Limelight

Journey to the beautiful Blue Mountains to remember Stormi, a gorgeous blind Staffordshire Bull Terrier who spent his life completely defying the myths surrounding vision-impaired dogs. Even when severe arthritis took the use of his front legs later in life, Stormi simply adapted to a custom wheelchair, overcoming multiple hurdles with an unbreakable spirit. Though he passed away in 2021, Stormi’s inspiring legacy and infectious zest for life remain a powerful testament to how deeply a special-needs dog can love and be loved.

Navy’s Journey: The Lonely Deaf Cattle Dog Longing for Home

Fella found his safe haven, but another extraordinary special-needs pup is still searching for his happy ending. Meet Navy, a beautiful, resilient Deaf Australian Cattle Dog who relies on hand signals, visual cues, and a whole lot of heart. This loyal heeler is currently waiting for a patient, loving family to look past his silent world and see the brilliant, devoted companion ready to fill their lives with joy.

“Do I Need an Emergency Vet?” Why More Aussie Pet Owners Are Turning to Telehealth First

Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) is reporting a major surge in policyholders accessing free, registered veterinary advice via phone and video consultations, as owners look for ways to navigate rising costs and an industry-wide vet shortage.

The trend highlights a shifting landscape for Australian pet care. Over the past year alone, PIA recorded a 50% increase in policyholders using their tele-vet services. In the month of May alone, over 600 new and returning customers accessed the platform's Live Vet 24/7 support.

Navigating Cost-of-Living and Vet Shortages

The rise in telehealth comes as Australian pet owners face a dual challenge: intense household financial pressure and a critical national shortage of veterinary staff.

Recent data underscores the strain on families, with Animal Medicines Australia reporting in its latest national pet survey that 12% of pet owners required financial assistance to afford veterinary care. Concurrently, ongoing veterinary shortages continue to place heavy pressure on traditional clinics across both regional and metropolitan areas.

“The cost-of-living crisis is changing the way pet owners approach veterinary care,” says Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia. “We are seeing more people wanting trusted advice before they make a decision, especially after hours or when they are unsure if something is an emergency.”

The Power of After-Hours Triage

For many families, the value of veterinary telehealth lies in professional triage—helping to determine whether a symptom requires an expensive midnight dash to a hospital or if it can safely wait for a regular booking.

“This is not about replacing your local vet,” Crighton explains. “It is about giving pet owners access to qualified veterinary guidance when they need it most, particularly when they are worried, unsure, or facing the possibility of an emergency vet visit.”

“As many pet owners understand, emergency care does not come cheaply; having a qualified vet on call can be the difference between a dash to the emergency room or making an educated choice to book an appointment.” 

This approach aligns with findings reported by the ABC, noting that pet owners are increasingly leaning on veterinary telemedicine for non-emergency support, while providers emphasise it should complement, not replace, hands-on clinical intervention.

“One of the most valuable parts of tele-vet support is triage,” says Crighton. “A registered vet can help determine whether a pet needs immediate emergency care, whether an appointment can wait until the next day, or whether simple monitoring and practical steps at home may be appropriate.”

Ensuring Qualified Advice

With the proliferation of online animal health tips, PIA is also urging owners to be mindful of exactly who is dispensing advice on the other end of the line.

“There are many wonderful animal health professionals, including highly skilled vet nurses, who play an essential role in pet care,” Crighton notes. “However, there are times when pet owners really do need to speak with a registered veterinarian, particularly when symptoms are complex, worsening, or potentially urgent.”

Common Reasons Owners Call

When symptoms strike, common catalysts for seeking digital care include digestive issues, limping, skin flare-ups, behavioural changes, post-surgery questions, coughing, or eye issues.

According to PIA's Live Vet support data, the top ten consultation conditions for pet owners are:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Skin Issues
• Medication Queries
• Mobility
• Hazard or Toxin Exposure
• Itchy Skin
• Lumps and Bumps
• Paw Issues
• Ear Issues

“Sometimes a tele-vet call confirms that a pet needs to be seen immediately, and that can be lifesaving,” Crighton says. “Other times, it may help a pet owner avoid unnecessary panic, reduce stress, and make a calmer, more informed decision.”

Ultimately, as clinics face capacity limits and families watch their budgets, digital triage is proving to be a vital buffer.

“For many families, pets are family,” says Crighton. “When something goes wrong, owners want fast, reliable advice. Tele-vet services can offer reassurance, education, and direction, and that can make a huge difference during a stressful moment.” 

Sources:
• ABC News: Veterinary telemedicine easing stress on pet owners and vets
• Animal Medicines Australia: National Pet Survey Insights

¹⁰ Live Vet Support is a service provided by PetSure that gives you 24/7 access to general veterinary telehealth advice for your insured pet(s) via online video or chat, via the Customer Portals owned and operated by PetSure. Access to Live Vet Support consultations subject to the Customer Portal terms of use.

Related Stories & Pet Health Resources

If you are trying to navigate a stressful situation with your pet or looking to better understand the changing landscape of Aussie pet care, explore our dedicated guides below:

• Pet Owners Skipping Vet Visits in Australia
  Our coverage of the VetChat national study revealed a heart-breaking trend: 1 in 6 Aussies have avoided essential clinic visits purely due to cost. While the data showed only 7% of pet owners had actively used telehealth at the time, a staggering 81% said they would embrace virtual vet triage once made aware it exists.
• Canine Arthritis: New Treatment Solutions
  Is joint pain or stiffness behind your dog's changing mobility? Explore the latest veterinary advancements, therapeutic solutions, and management strategies designed to ease chronic inflammation and improve quality of life for senior dogs.
• What Constitutes a Veterinary Emergency?
  Not sure if a midnight symptom requires an immediate hospital dash or a wait until morning? Expert emergency veterinary nurse Leah Eichner breaks down the critical, non-negotiable warning signs—including the truth about bloat (GDV), cluster seizures, and severe gastrointestinal distress.
• Gastroenteritis in Dogs: When to See the Vet
  Vomiting and diarrhoea are the top two reasons Aussies reach out to tele-vet triage lines. Learn how to identify the difference between a mild, self-limiting upset stomach and a case of severe canine gastroenteritis that requires clinical hydration and targeted medical treatment.

The Secret to Rehoming Retired Racing Greyhounds: Insights from Sydney Behaviour Expert Monika Monikin

On a damp morning at Centennial Park, Sydney, two nervous greyhounds circle cautiously through the grass while their owners watch closely.

One-year-old Girlfriend is alert to every movement around her, especially other dogs and small animals. Nearby, three-year-old Winnie hangs back anxiously, unsure of the world unfolding around her.

In the middle of it all is dog behaviour consultant Monika Monikin, moving calmly between dogs and humans with quiet reassurance.

“There’s no rush,” she says, as Girlfriend glances nervously at another passing dog. “We just want them to feel safe.”

The session looks nothing like old-school dog training. There are no sharp commands or leash corrections. Instead, Monika coaches Rachel and Jacques, Girlfriend’s owners, to create predictability and emotional safety for their young ex-racer. Girlfriend’s owners have just completed a six-week course with Monika on social skills, and now they want to build on her progress.

“She’s a bit reactive to other dogs and smaller animals like cats and possums,” Rachel says. She and Jacques fell in love with greyhounds while living with a flatmate who had two. “As soon as we got our own place, we wanted to get a greyhound of our own.”

Behaviour expert Monika Monikin (centre) guides Rachel and Jacques with ex-racer Girlfriend (left), alongside Jessica with her rescue greyhound Winnie (right) at Centennial Park.

Nearby, Winnie’s owners, Jessica and Deanne, practise giving their dog space to observe the environment without pressure. Deanne hopes Winnie can learn to move on from her anxiety.

“She has never been with a foster family before we took her on from Greyhound Rescue,” Deanne explains. “She’s been a bit stressed.”

Watching Monika work, it becomes obvious that her real gift lies not in controlling dogs, but in helping them feel understood. Through her Sydney-based business, Understanding Canine, Monika works with dogs of all breeds, but retired racing greyhounds have become her passion.

Understanding Canine founder Monika Monikin sharing a tender moment with her adopted rescue greyhound, Mozart. Photo credit: Cristal, Love Tails Photography

“They’re incredibly sensitive dogs,” she explains. 

“A lot of behaviour that people see as stubbornness or reactivity is actually fear or overwhelm.” 

That understanding has made Monika highly respected within Australia’s growing greyhound adoption community.

From Wolves to Dugongs: Monika's Journey

Monika’s journey into animal behaviour began long before greyhounds entered her life. As a child, she attended agility trials with her dog at just 12 years old before studying canine and equine science at the University of New England.

But it was a troubled rescue horse she bought as a university student that changed everything.

“I realised I was completely out of my depth,” she laughs. “It made me fascinated by how animals learn and how we communicate with them.”

Monika gaining first-hand experience with wolves at Wolf Park in the United States, mastering the principles of positive reinforcement. Photo credit: Monty Sloan.

Determined to master positive reinforcement training, Monika travelled overseas to work with wolves at Wolf Park in the United States, before later training dolphins in Bermuda and Palau. 

She even trained a dugong at the Sydney Aquarium.

“I wanted to learn how to work with animals without relying on force,” she says. “I wanted to understand how to build trust.”

Monika working with a dugong at the Sydney Aquarium (left) and training dolphins in Bermuda (right) refining her force-free communication philosophy.

That philosophy would eventually shape her work with greyhounds. Her first greyhound, Mozart, arrived as a foster dog in 2021. Like many foster carers, Monika quickly fell in love and adopted him herself—a classic ‘foster fail’.

“He was anxious and overwhelmed by the world,” she says. “But seeing him slowly come out of his shell completely changed me.”

Today, most of Monika’s work comes through word of mouth among greyhound owners and rescue groups. She has also become heavily involved in rehabilitation work with long-term rescue dogs struggling to adjust to life outside the racing industry.

Overcoming Big Feelings: Olympus’ Story

One of those dogs was Olympus, a greyhound who spent almost four years waiting for a home at the Greyhound Rescue kennels at Bargo, south of Sydney.

“He had what people called behavioural problems,” Monika says. “But really, he just had very big feelings and didn’t know what to do with them.”

Olympus would jump at people, mouth clothing, and become over-aroused in stressful situations. Instead of labelling him aggressive, Monika focused on helping him regulate stress and feel safe in the world around him. Eventually, Olympus found his forever home.

“That’s the best part,” she says. “Watching them realise they’re finally safe.”

Greyhounds, Monika believes, are among Australia’s most misunderstood dogs.

“People think they’re going to be high-energy because they race,” she says. "But a lot of them are content to sleep for many hours a day and don't have the demanding, high exercise needs that many other pet dog breeds have. When they're comfortable with you, greyhounds can be great co-napping buddies—but they can also be very goofy and playful. They're great communicators and will let you know how they feel about something."

High-speed happiness: Monika utilising positive reinforcement to recall an ex-racer in a secure paddock. Photography by Mia Smith, Pawtraits and Pawprints (including hero image).

Monika notes that many retired racers arrive in homes with limited experience of everyday life.

“Their whole world has usually been kennels, paddocks and racetracks,” she says. “Then suddenly they’re expected to understand traffic, cafes, apartment buildings and busy parks.”

The result can be fearful or reactive behaviour that is often misunderstood by the public. Monika believes one of the biggest issues within parts of the racing industry is poor early socialisation.

“Puppies need positive exposure to the world during critical developmental periods,” she says. “A lot of racing greyhounds simply don’t get that.”

“Proper puppy socialisation is foundational to helping them navigate future stress and novelty with ease.”

Navigating Industry Welfare and Physical Trauma

The Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds (CPG) has long raised concerns about welfare standards within the racing industry, including the socialisation and long-term wellbeing of dogs bred for racing. The organisation also advocates for stronger transparency around injury rates, wastage, and rehoming outcomes.

Monika sees the emotional consequences first-hand.

“A lot of these dogs live in what we call a pessimistic emotional state,” she explains. "They expect something bad to happen because they are rarely given opportunities to problem solve or experience new things in a positive way.” 

So now any change to their world feels unsafe and scary. They have lived such an institutionalised life with very minimal environmental change and novelty that life in a dynamic home environment feels overwhelming and difficult to predict."

Loud noises, unfamiliar environments, and sudden movements can trigger fear responses in some ex-racers, particularly during the early stages of adoption. Physical injuries are another common issue Monika encounters.

“Greyhounds are incredibly stoic,” she says. “They often hide pain very well.”

Many retired racers suffer chronic injuries, arthritis, or muscular damage caused by the repetitive strain of racing. CPG has repeatedly highlighted concerns about injury rates within the industry and the long-term physical impact on dogs’ bodies. 

Last year, 287 dogs were killed as a result of the racing industry in Australia.

Credit: Love Tails Photography

Not directly related to racing, Monika's own greyhound, Mozart, developed osteosarcoma at just six years old and required a front leg amputation.

“He’s now a tripod. And honestly, he’s amazing.”

Despite losing a leg, Mozart still runs happily and adapted far better than Monika expected. “They’re such resilient dogs,” she says.

Becoming More Thoughtful Owners

Yet, Monika is quick to stress that greyhounds are remarkably adaptable.

“With patience, they can do incredibly well,” she says. “You just can’t rush them.”

That patience is evident throughout the training session at Centennial Park. Rather than forcing Winnie into stressful interactions, Monika encourages Jessica to let the nervous greyhound observe the environment from a distance.

“Sometimes they just need to watch the world for a while,” Monika says.

Over time, many nervous greyhounds gradually gain confidence and begin enjoying outings they once found terrifying. “I’ve worked with dogs that initially refused to leave the house,” Monika says. “Then a year later they’re happily going to cafes and group walks.”

Australia’s greyhound community has become known for its supportive culture, with regular social walks and adoption events helping new owners navigate the transition from racetrack to home life.

“It’s such a lovely community,” Monika says. “Everyone understands that these dogs often need time.”

While rescue groups pour their energy into healing the dogs directly in front of them, advocates argue that we cannot ignore the broader welfare issues plaguing the industry—such as the recent spikes in track fatalities that have sparked calls for independent inquiries. Groups like the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds continue to push for systemic policy changes and encourage adoption as a way Australians can directly help retired racers. 

While the mismatch between the sheer number of retiring dogs and available homes remains a massive challenge for the community, the profound resilience of these animals is the exact reason greyhound owners often become fiercely devoted to the breed.

“They teach you to slow down and really pay attention,” Monika says. “You learn to read body language, facial tension and stress signals in a way you never noticed before.”

Greyhounds, she believes, ultimately make people more thoughtful dog owners.

“You can’t bulldoze your way through with them,” she says. “You have to build trust. They’ve spent so much of their lives just coping. Seeing them finally feel safe enough to explore the world—that’s everything.” 

Behind the statistics, welfare debates, and racing controversies, these dogs are learning how to be pets with the right humans—patient enough to help them get there.

This article was written by Sue O from the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds (CPG), with editing and layout by Australian Dog Lover.

How You Can Help

As we celebrate National Foster a Pet Month this June, it is the perfect opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of these gentle hounds. If you would like to welcome a resilient ex-racer into your life, you can support, foster, or adopt through these dedicated independent rescue organisations across Australia:

• New South Wales: Greyhound Rescue NSW
• Victoria: Greyt Greys
• Queensland: I Want a Greyhound (IWaG)
• Tasmania: Dogs' Homes of Tasmania
• National / Multi-State:
• Friends of the Hound
• Hounds in Homes
• Homeward Bound Hounds
• Busselton Greyhound Awareness

Dogs' Day Out Returns to Buderim Village Park for Third Annual Community Celebration

Popular dog-friendly event promises expanded activities and local marketplace experience

The beloved Dogs' Day Out returns to Buderim Village Park on Sunday, 21 June 2026, offering families and their four-legged companions a day of entertainment, community connection, and tail-wagging fun from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Now in its third year, the event has established itself as one of Buderim's premier dog-friendly community gatherings, drawing hundreds of local residents and their pets to celebrate the special bond between families and their furry friends.

"Each year, Dogs' Day Out has grown in both size and community spirit," said Suzie Warwick. 

"What started as a simple gathering has become a cornerstone event that brings together dog lovers, families, and local businesses in a truly unique celebration."

What's On: Event Highlights

• Interactive doggie activities across the park fields
• Stage competitions and demonstrations featuring local pets
• Community Marketplace showcasing pet products, grooming services, accessories, and specialty foods
• Food, beverages, and entertainment provided by local associations and community groups
• Family-friendly atmosphere in the scenic Buderim Village Park setting

The event's Community Marketplace Partners will offer expertise and showcase products ranging from premium pet foods and grooming services to stylish pet clothing and accessories, making it a one-stop destination for dog enthusiasts.

The free event welcomes dogs of all sizes and breeds, along with their families, for an afternoon of community connection in one of Buderim's most beautiful park settings.

Community Partnership

Dogs' Day Out 2026 is proudly presented by the Buderim War Memorial Community Association and Community Bank Buderim – Bendigo, reflecting the event's deep community roots and commitment to bringing neighbours together.

This year’s event has also attracted a returning Community Sponsor Partner, IGA Local Grocer Buderim and two new Community Sponsor Partners, Suncoast Vet Group and Queensland Veterinary Specialists (QVS).

Event Details

• What: Dogs' Day Out 2026

• When: Sunday, 21 June 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Where: Buderim Village Park, Buderim QLD

• Cost: Free admission

5-Star Pet Vacations: Newcastle Airport’s Stress-Free Pet Transit Lounge

With Pet Appreciation Week (PAW) in full swing across Australia from 7–13 June, the spotlight is firmly on the companionship, wellbeing, and joy pets bring to households around the country. But for dog owners bit by the travel bug, balancing a holiday with pet care can often be the most stressful part of trip planning.

At Newcastle Airport, more travellers than ever are looking for convenient and trusted pet care solutions while they are away. To celebrate Pet Appreciation Week and honour the important role pets play in the lives of travelling families, the airport has teamed up with Hunter Pet Motel to celebrate a growing demand for pet travel services—complete with some special surprises for incoming passengers.

At select times throughout the week, pet-owning passengers can collect complimentary show bags in Arrivals for their cats and dogs. Hunter Pet Motel donated hundreds of the cat and dog show bags for the airport team to hand out, with local Medowie dad Jason and his baby daughter Alexandra among those pictured picking up a doggy bag for their fur baby.

Mascot ‘Cate the Cat’ at Newcastle Airport handing out cat and dog showbags to Arrivals passengers. Medowie dad Jason is pictured with his baby daughter Alexandra who picked up a doggy bag.

Seamless Travel for Regional Jetsetters

The week also serves as a reminder of how much the travel landscape is evolving for regional pet parents. Since launching in 2023, Newcastle Airport’s Pet Transit Lounge has become a popular option for passengers wanting a seamless way to care for their pets while travelling.

The unique service allows customers to drop off their pets directly outside the terminal before parking and walking straight into the Departures Lounge, offering total peace of mind for pet owners as they travel.

Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the service reflected the airport’s commitment to making travel easier and more convenient for regional travellers.

Convenience at the terminal: The dedicated Newcastle Airport Pet Transit Lounge makes curbside drop-offs seamless for travelling pet parents.

“With international services operating and passenger numbers continuing to grow, demand for pet boarding and pet transport services is also increasing,” Mr Horton said.

“At Newcastle Airport, we focus on creating the airport experience the region deserves, and that means thinking about every part of the passenger journey, including pets.

“Pet Appreciation Week is a great reminder of just how important pets are to so many families across our region and the Pet Transit Lounge has become a really valued service for travellers wanting peace of mind while they are away.

“It’s a genuinely unique offering and one that continues to resonate strongly with our passengers.  

“People love the convenience of being able to drop off their pets right at the terminal knowing they’ll be well looked after while they travel.” 

“As we expand our domestic and international routes, we expect demand for pet transit and boarding services to grow alongside it. More people are travelling, more families are taking holidays, and increasingly pets are part of those travel plans.”

What Happens When Your Pet Goes On Vacation?

Once pets are dropped off at the Newcastle Airport transit terminal, they are transported via purpose-built pet transport vehicles to Hunter Pet Motel’s facility at Elderslie. From there, the animals enjoy a holiday of their own, complete with tailored care, spacious accommodation, and supervised play areas.

A holiday of their own at
the Elderslie facility

Unlike many standard boarding facilities, Hunter Pet Motel does not co-board pets. Every dog enjoys their own private room and backyard, while each cat has their own private accommodation. 

Pets can also enjoy supervised exercise, play sessions up to three times a day, and an on-site swimming pool.

For added peace of mind, owners can choose to receive photo updates via email or text message, allowing them to see what their furry family members are up to during their stay.

Hunter Pet Motel owner Charmaine Smith said Pet Appreciation Week was the perfect opportunity to recognise the special role pets now play in Australian families and the growing demand for trusted pet care while people travel.

“Pets are very much part of the family these days and people want complete peace of mind knowing they’re leaving them in safe and caring hands while they’re away,” Ms Smith said.

“Being located directly at Newcastle Airport makes travelling with pets incredibly convenient. Travellers can arrive, check in their pets and head straight to their flight without adding another stop to the journey. It’s all part of making travel easier and less stressful.

“We’ve seen a growing demand since launching the service, particularly as more people choose to fly locally from Newcastle rather than driving elsewhere. People are embracing the convenience of flying from the airport that’s just up the road and that creates opportunities for businesses like ours as well.

“Our team is passionate about making sure every pet feels safe, comfortable and cared for while their owners are away. 

“For many of the animals who stay with us, it becomes a holiday of their own.” 

Cheeky Guests, Bulldogs, and... Ostriches?

According to Ms Smith, the facility treats every pet as an individual, which leads to some incredibly entertaining guest personalities.

“And we know the pets enjoy their stay," Ms Smith laughed. "One of our regular cats loves being groomed with the long-handled broom. There’s no sweeping allowed unless she gets brushed first.

“Some of our feline guests are just as cheeky as the dogs. We have a few clever cats who use exercise time to investigate the shelves in search of treat bags. Their determination and problem solving skills never fail to entertain our staff, who have learned to keep a very close eye on any snacks left within reach.

“Some of our most entertaining regulars are four Bulldogs whose cheeky personalities keep our team smiling every visit.

“We’ve also had a few dogs over the years whose love of tennis balls could only be described as an obsession. One particular guest carried a tennis ball everywhere he went, to breakfast, to playtime and even while greeting staff.

“And while cats and dogs are our most common visitors, they’re certainly not the only animals we've cared for. One of our more memorable transport jobs involved collecting three baby ostriches destined to become lawn mowers on a rural property. That was definitely a day our team won’t forget anytime soon.”

Community Heart and Looking Ahead

While the week is filled with celebration, it also comes following the recent passing of Hunter Pet Motel General Manager Brett Wild, who was a passionate advocate for animal care and a valued local business leader. Newcastle Airport extends its deepest condolences to Brett’s family, friends, and the Hunter Pet Motel team during this difficult time, remembering his legacy of dedication to the region's pets.

Looking forward, the partnership between the airport and the pet motel is set to thrive. As Newcastle Airport continues to grow, so does the opportunity for local pet-centric businesses to expand alongside it. Increased domestic and future international connectivity is creating exciting opportunities for the broader pet travel industry across the Hunter region.

The HPM Transit Lounge is part of Newcastle Airport's broader commitment to enhancing the customer experience. Hunter Pet Motel is also proud to offer discounts for APOD (Defence and ex-Defence) members, discounted rates for extended stays, and complimentary washes and toys for eligible guests.

More Info: For bookings and more information on the transit service, visit newcastleairport.com.au/at-the-airport/pet-transit-lounge or contact the Hunter Pet Motel directly on (02) 4938 3710.