Celebrate Love (and Paws) Under the Stars: Moonlight Cinema’s February Highlights

Why settle for a standard dinner date when you can have a "Doggie Date Night" under the stars? This February, Moonlight Cinema presented by Youi is celebrating its 30th anniversary by leaning into its legacy as Australia’s favourite date-night tradition.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening with a partner or a "Galentine’s" night with your best furry friend, the February program is packed with iconic romance, audience favourites, and new blockbusters.

The "Week of Romance": Feb 10 – 15

Moonlight is dedicating an entire week to love in all its forms. If your dog is your "Ultimate Valentine" (they don't talk during the movie and they’re always happy to cuddle!), these are the dates to mark in your diary:

• Feb 10: Pretty Woman

• Feb 11: Notting Hill

• Feb 12: 10 Things I Hate About You

• Feb 13: Dirty Dancing (A "People's Program" favorite!)

• Feb 14: Wuthering Heights – Starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. This bold new take on the classic tale is the headline event for Valentine’s Day.

• Feb 15: The Notebook

Note: Tickets for the Valentine's Day screening of Wuthering Heights go on sale from January 14.

Choose Your Experience

Under balmy summer night skies, each location comes to life with on-site activations, kitchens, bars, and the comfiest bean beds for humans (and even one for their four-legged friends!).

• Singapore Airlines Gold Grass: The ultimate A-List experience. Enjoy prime viewing, express entry, and food/drinks ordered via QR code and delivered straight to your seat.

• Connoisseur Lounge: Guaranteed comfort in a reserved area with great views. Your ticket includes a bean bed and a delicious Connoisseur Gourmet Ice Cream.

• General Admission: Moonlight your way! Bring your favourite people, a picnic rug, and your preferred snacks.

Note: Moonlight Cinema is BYO at all locations except Brisbane.

Treat Your Best Friend: The Lyka Doggie Bag

Available in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Brisbane, the Lyka Doggie Bag is the ultimate movie snack for pampered pooches. For $17 (RRP $55), your dog gets:

✔️ A fresh Kangaroo sample meal

✔️ A lick mat

✔️ A pack of dental treats

✔️ A reusable cooler bag

Pro Tip: Arrive early for freebies! The first few Lyka purchases each night score complimentary doggie bean bed hire, ensuring your pup has a front-row seat in total comfort. Since the regular hire is $12.50, it pays to be at the front of the line when the gates open!

"The People’s Program" & New Releases

Beyond the romance, February features the films Australia voted for as part of the 30th-anniversary celebrations, plus highly anticipated new summer releases:

• Audience Favourites: Jurassic Park (Feb 5), Mamma Mia! (Feb 7), and a Grease Sing-Along (Feb 21).

• Summer Blockbusters: Avatar: Fire & Ash, Marty Supreme, and the preview screening of the black comedy thriller How to Make a Killing (Feb 25).

• Family & Throwbacks: Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire (Feb 8) and Zootopia 2 (Feb 28).

Important Dates & Dog-Friendly Details

Moonlight Cinema runs until April 5, 2026, but please note that the Brisbane and Adelaide seasons conclude in mid-February.

City                       Venue                                                                                  Dates           Dog-Friendly?

Sydney             Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Parklands          until Apr 5          YES!
Melbourne        Central Lawn, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria         until Apr 5           YES!
Adelaide             Botanic Park Adelaide                                                    until Feb 15        YES!
Brisbane           The Amphitheatre, Roma Street Parklands                until Feb 15         YES!
Perth                    May Drive Parkland, Kings Park                                  until Mar 29             No*

*Perth is the only non-dog-friendly venue due to local wildlife protection regulations. 

Moonlight "House Rules" for Paws:

• Keep it Short: Dogs must be on a lead (2m or less) at all times.

• Quiet on Set: Ensure your dog is comfortable in crowds and remains quiet during the film.

• BYO Bowls: While snacks are sorted with the Lyka bag, remember to bring a water bowl for your pup.

• BYO Picnic: Moonlight is BYO food and drink at all locations except Brisbane (where alcohol must be purchased on-site).

Ready to book? Head to moonlightcinema.com.au to grab your tickets before the popular Valentine's sessions sell out!

Why Dr Tanya Carter traded Greek archaeology for a life-long mission in animal welfare and community health

For Dr Tanya Carter, veterinary practice has never been just about animals. It has always been about people, community, ethics and responsibility – a philosophy that has guided her work for more than 50 years and recently earned her the One Welfare Award as part of the Veterinary Practitioners Board of NSW’s Centenary Awards.

Based at Haberfield Veterinary Hospital in Sydney, Dr Tanya has spent five decades building and sustaining a community-focused practice, while also contributing in a number of national roles in animal welfare, ethics, conservation biology and veterinary regulation. She has also received both national and international recognition for her contributions.

Reflecting on her career, Dr Tanya shares her story in her own words.

From Somerset Brooks to Sydney Science

I grew up in a small village in Somerset, England where much of my early childhood was spent out in the countryside picking mushrooms, paddling in babbling brooks, nutting and picking blackberries in autumn. This definitely inspired my love of animals and nature. We always had dogs, but I acquired a lovely ginger kitten when I was two.

My interests initially lay elsewhere. Inspired by an archaeological dig near my home, I became fascinated by the idea of digging up old things. When my father was offered a job in Derby, we moved from the countryside to the middle of a noisy, smoggy city. I became very interested in anything to do with Ancient Greece and by the time I was 10, knew all the Greek myths and legends.

I passed the highly selective 11 Plus exam and earned a place at an academically selective grammar school. My heart was set on Cambridge or Oxford to study archaeology. However, when my dad was offered a job in Sydney, a career in Greek archaeology suddenly seemed unlikely.

My best subject at school was art followed by English and History. I’m not sure what made me think to be a vet, but as I was not studying physics and chemistry I had to catch up on two years of these subjects during the Christmas holidays!

Pioneering in a Changing Profession

I studied veterinary science at the University of Sydney at a time when women were still a minority in the profession. I didn’t come across any challenges or barriers at university nor when I graduated or when I established my practice.

There were only 50 women in the whole five years of the degree course (I was the faculty female sports rep and found it difficult to find enough players for a hockey team!) and only 10 women graduated with me.

I had a brilliant education at the University of Sydney with wonderful teachers and strong clinical training delivered by general practitioners. We were encouraged to understand that we could do anything, and I graduated with a great deal of confidence and ability.

My first employer was a brilliant and very supportive vet who gave me a job running a newly established practice on my own. I also ran another small busy practice on my own for two months at one stage. At that time, it wasn’t considered odd for new graduates to do this.

The Joey that Sparked a Research Career

I have always been very interested in environmental issues and wildlife. Rearing an orphan grey kangaroo joey in my final year sparked my interest in research as I noticed that kangaroos reared on cow’s milk were prone to develop cataracts.

I wondered if they were unable to metabolise galactose, so I approached the Children’s Medical Research Foundation which was researching galactosaemia in humans and they gave me a research grant to use kangaroos as animal models for galactosaemia. We found they are indeed galactosaemic and our first paper was published in Nature.

This discovery led to a lifelong interest in research and good science and has probably been the driver for my passion for the use of evidence-based medicine. I maintain my interest in research, sit on a number of Animal Ethics Committees and I’m the honorary vet for the Children’s Medical Research Institute. I am forever grateful for their support of my research.

Balancing the Clinic and the Cradle

When I graduated, I wasn’t sure what kind of veterinarian I wanted to be. I married an architect when we were both students, and after graduation he was offered a teaching role at UNSW, which ruled out country practice – although I did toy with the idea of becoming a cattle vet.

I wasn’t interested in zoo work, either, as there wasn’t much in the way of wildlife vet work. And I didn’t want to be an academic, so after a couple of years in small animal practice and research I decided to open my own practice.

With a five-month-old baby in my arms, I found an empty shop and approached a bank for a loan and opened the doors to Haberfield Veterinary Hospital. The rest is history with four children and nine – soon-to-be-10 – grandchildren later!

Five Decades of Evolution: Beyond the ‘Fur-Baby’

Over five decades, I have seen enormous change in veterinary medicine. As a small animal practitioner, advances in preventative health such as vaccines and new medicines have been most welcome.

New technology and diagnostic tools have also changed some of the ways we care for pets. However, these are not always the only reason we can offer pets longer, healthier lives. It may also be access to better preventative care, such as vaccines and avoidance of fast cars!

There has also been increasing societal concern for animal welfare, which is positive. 

However, the evolution of pets into ‘fur-babies’ has been an enormous shift and is not always in the best interests of the animal or its owner. 

The ‘fur-baby’ phenomenon can make life more challenging for the practitioner and the practitioner needs to ensure that the welfare of the animal comes first and that this phenomenon doesn’t lead to vets undertaking tests and procedures which may not be in the best interests of animals and their owners.

The rise of specialisation has definitely had clear benefits, and I value this expertise, but we have to ensure the essential role of the GP vet continues to be appreciated as the primary port of call.

Rising veterinary costs, which have increased faster than inflation, can also affect client behaviour. Research has shown that as costs go up, vet visits go down, and this is clearly an animal health and welfare concern.

Financial pressure can certainly create ethical dilemmas, and is the main cause of abuse of vets. However, there are options and helping pet owners is tremendously rewarding. It is important for practitioners to use evidence based medicine and not do anything that is not in the best interests of the animal or its owner, and that may add to costs.

We know that clients want vets to have accountability, transparency, good clinical skills, concern about animal welfare and not have money making as the first priority.

The Power of the Community Vet

Looking back, I was always happy to have a small, community-based practice and the opportunity to edit books, write, give presentations and undertake research. I’m proud of my original research on kangaroos, and the fact that I established my own practice and my staff are happy to stay with me for decades, that my clientele are so grateful and that I’ve been able to support various agencies and disadvantaged pet owners.

I’m really proud of my two books. My first book One Welfare in Practice: The Role of the Veterinarian looks at big issues such as land clearing, climate change, working animals and really highlights the essential role of the vet. My latest book, which I co-edited, Veterinary Controversies and Ethical Dilemmas: Provocative Reflections on Clinical Practice, is much more reflective and examines contemporary vet practice.

I was very pleased to have been made a Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2020, and I am of course very honoured to be given a Centennial Award by the NSW Veterinary Practitioners Board in 2025.

Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation

Veterinary medicine is a wonderful and rewarding profession. Being a vet gives you so many options – academia, research, practice etc. and a combination of all. Remember your essential role in animal and human health and welfare. See ‘ethical dilemmas’ as challenges which make practice interesting and engaging with pet owners is very rewarding.

Remember there is no ‘gold standard’ and veterinary professional ethics is about acknowledging the limitations of knowledge whilst adding to it. Always use evidence-based medicine.

The best moments that perfectly capture why I became a vet are being appreciated by my clientele (with lovely cards, wine, chocolate and flowers), having staff and family support and of course recognition by my peers in receiving awards.

So much of veterinary work is about serving our communities by caring for animals, supporting the people who love them and contributing to broader welfare, ethics and environmental issues. 

Helping animals means helping people – that’s the essence of One Welfare and it’s at the heart of everything I do.

Dr Tanya Carter at home with her dog, Ralph
Photo: Harry Stephens

About Dr Tanya Carter

Dr Tanya Carter is a small animal veterinarian and practice owner at Haberfield Veterinary Hospital in Sydney. 

She is the recipient of the One Welfare Award as part of the Veterinary Practitioners Board of NSW’s 2025 Centenary Awards and was made a Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2020. 

Dr Carter has contributed extensively to animal welfare, ethics and conservation biology through research, publishing, committee work and professional leadership.

Celebrating the Australian heroes providing world-class care for our pets

From the rural vets driving through the night to the clinic teams providing cutting-edge care in our cities, Australia’s veterinary professionals are the heartbeat of our pet-loving community. Now, it’s time to put them in the spotlight once again.

Following a successful inaugural year that saw over 100 entries, the GapOnly® Veterinary Awards (GOVAs) have officially returned for 2026. The search is back on to celebrate the excellence, leadership, and innovation that defines the sector—from the bustling city hospitals to the backbone of our rural communities.

Why This Matters to Pet Owners

While the GOVAs are a prestigious industry event, they represent something vital for every pet parent: the gold standard of care. When a clinic or veterinarian is nominated, it’s a reflection of their commitment to innovation and community impact. 

This year, new categories like Excellence in Rural and Regional Veterinary Services and Veterinary Mentor or Educator of the Year highlight the diverse ways the profession supports our furry family members.

A Vision for Veterinary Excellence

Dr. Maria Neale, General Manager of GapOnly®, notes that these awards are about more than just trophies—they are about the compassion that drives the industry.

“The 2025 GOVAs proved just how much passion exists in this profession,” says Dr. Neale. “This year, we’ve refined our categories to make sure we’re celebrating everyone—the emerging leaders, the welfare champions, and the non-vet team members who keep clinics running smoothly.”

Key Dates & Details

The celebration will culminate in a gala event on Friday, 6 March 2026, at Doltone House, hosted by one of Australia’s favourite satirists, Mark Humphries.

The 2026 Categories Include:

• Excellence in Metropolitan Veterinary Services (New)

• Excellence in Rural and Regional Veterinary Services (New)

• Woman Veterinarian of the Year

• Team Member of the Year (Recognizing the vital role of non-vets)

• PetSafetyNet Welfare and Wellbeing Champion

• Veterinary Mentor or Educator of the Year (New)

How to Nominate

If you are a veterinary professional, or if you know a clinic that has gone above and beyond, the clock is ticking. Nominations are free and close on 18 January 2026.

Finalists will be announced in early February, giving the entire pet-loving community a chance to cheer on their local heroes.

To submit a nomination or secure your tickets to the gala, visit
gaponly.com.au/gova.

Why "Dry Drowning" and Sand Impaction are the Silent Risks Every Aussie Owner Must Know This Summer

January is one of the busiest months for pet-related vet emergencies. As holiday outings hit full swing, Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) is urging pet owners to stay vigilant. 

"A great day out can take a turn quickly, whether it’s a stung paw, dehydration, or sand ingestion," says Nadia Crighton, PIA Spokesperson. "Knowing how to stay safe protects your best mate and your wallet."

1. The Invisible Threat: Secondary Drowning

Perhaps the most terrifying risk is one you can't see immediately. "Secondary drowning" (or dry drowning) can occur hours after your dog has left the water. It happens when a dog inhales water while swimming or chasing a ball.

Even if a dog seems fine, symptoms can develop later as fluid causes lung inflammation.

• Signs to watch for: Persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, or blue gums.

• Expert Verdict: “It can happen when dogs inhale water while playing, especially ball-obsessed breeds,” Crighton explains. “Owners often don’t recognise the symptoms until they escalate.”

2. The "Sandpaper" Effect: Sand Ingestion

Sand ingestion is a surprisingly common and serious issue. When dogs play fetch, they often scoop up sand, which can lead to sand impaction—a heavy blockage in the gut that causes vomiting, lethargy, and abdominal pain.

• The Case of Teddy: One PIA member, a Cavoodle named Teddy, was lucky his owner took quick action after a beach session led to a serious sand impaction.

• Pro Tip: Avoid tennis balls at the beach; the felt traps sand. Switch to smooth, non-sand-holding rubber toys.

3. Hot Sand & Sharp Objects

"If it is too hot for the back of your hand, it is far too hot for your dog's paws," warns Crighton. Beyond burns, the summer season sees a spike in claims for blue bottle stings and cuts from razor shells.

Monitoring your dog around fishing equipment is also vital. Toohey, a Delta Therapy dog, had a nasty incident with a fishhook—a common hazard that can lead to thousands in veterinary costs.

4. Parasites & Freshwater Risks

It isn't just the ocean that poses a threat. Lakes and slow-moving waterways can carry parasites like Giardia and Leptospirosis. If your dog is visiting inland waterways, ensure they don't drink the water and seek vet advice if they show any signs of illness after a swim.

5. The Risk of Crowded Beaches

Unfamiliar, crowded locations increase the risk of pets bolting. Even a well-trained dog can be distracted by birds or balls in a new environment. "Ensuring your microchip information and registration are up-to-date can help ensure pets are found quickly," Crighton suggests.

Real Vet Costs Can Add Up Quickly

With rising vet costs across Australia, unexpected incidents can quickly strain a budget. Emergency treatment for dehydration or sand impaction can vary from minor care to expensive hospital stays or surgery.

“The last thing any pet parent expects on a beach day is a vet bill,” Crighton adds. “Being vigilant and understanding the symptoms is paramount.”

Quick Summer Safety Tips

• Provide constant access to fresh water to prevent saltwater drinking.

• Test sand temperature before allowing play.

• Rinse paws and coats thoroughly after water play to remove salt and sand.

• Keep pets leashed if you are unsure about the safety or crowds in the area.

Important Information 

Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, PIA. 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) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. 

PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.

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Muzz Buzz Joins Forces with WA Rescue to Combat Rising Dog Surrenders and Summer Heat

Looking at the happy, froth-covered face of Slink (pictured above), a former rescue dog now enjoying his "forever home," it’s hard to imagine he was once a number in a pound. However, a prominent Western Australian dog rescue group says stories like Slink’s are becoming harder to achieve as the cost-of-living crisis drives a surge in surrenders.

A prominent Western Australian dog rescue group is reporting a surge in surrenders as the cost-of-living crisis hits home, prompting a major summer fundraising campaign with local coffee icon Muzz Buzz.

Desperate for Love Dog Pound Rescue (DFL) currently has more than 70 dogs in its care. The surge in surrenders has put a spotlight on their Forever Foster program, which provides lifelong financial and medical support for approximately 20 dogs deemed too old or unwell for traditional re-homing.

The "Christmas to Easter" Cycle

A waiting game: Patch is one of over 70 dogs currently in DFL’s care as the rescue group
calls for more foster carers this summer.

DFL spokeswoman Emma Broz warns that the festive season often leads to impulsive decisions that end in heartbreak.

“Dogs are wonderful companions, but they’re not a short-term commitment,” Ms. Broz said. “Too many people take on dogs without understanding the long-term financial implications.

“We have seen it before: a new dog during the Christmas period becomes a surrender by Easter.”

A Partnership with Perks

Partners in rescue: Emma Broz
of DFL Dog Rescue with Patch
(available for adoption)

To combat the rising costs of care, DFL has partnered with Muzz Buzz throughout December and January. Customers can purchase specially branded air fresheners at metro stores, with more than $7,500 already raised for the rescue.

Muzz Buzz CEO Joyce Reynolds noted that while many groups are struggling, smaller grassroots rescues are finding it hardest to stay afloat.

“We know cost-of-living means there’s less money for donations, particularly for groups that aren't as well known,” Mrs. Reynolds said. “We hope this campaign reminds people they can support DFL in many ways—whether it’s a small donation, becoming a foster carer, or simply raising awareness.”

For Mrs. Reynolds, the cause is personal. She and her husband rescued their dog, Jock, six years ago. Today, Jock is a staple at the Muzz Buzz head office.

“Jock has changed our lives for the better. We believe more dogs deserve the opportunity to find a loving home,” she said.

Summer Safety Warning

With Western Australian temperatures climbing, Mrs. Reynolds is also using the campaign to urge pet owners to be "summer smart."

“We love seeing dogs in our customers’ cars, but please do not leave them unattended for even a few minutes,” Mrs. Reynolds stressed. “If it’s too hot for us to go barefoot, it’s too hot for their paws. Avoid walking dogs on footpaths and roads during the heat of the day.”

For more information on fostering or donating, visit
https://www.dfldogrescue.com.au

About Muzz Buzz: 

Muzz Buzz is a WA owned and operated franchise business, specialising in Great Coffee on the Go. There are currently more than 30 stores across metropolitan and regional WA.

Santa Paws is Coming to Town: Meet the Australian Dogs Making Life-Changing Christmas Miracles

Aussies, grab your favourite four-legged friend and pour a cup of cheer, because this is the time of year when we celebrate the most important kind of gift: the one that brings freedom, confidence, and a whole lotta love.

This festive season, Guide Dogs Victoria has launched its annual Christmas Appeal, aiming to raise $300,000. But this year, the message is bigger than ever, because the impact of these incredible dogs has expanded far beyond the harness.

From Little Helpers to Life-Changers

Every single working dog—whether a Guide Dog, Therapy Dog, or Court Dog—begins as a precious bundle of fluff, a 'Little Helper' full of enormous promise. But turning that tiny paw into a powerful partner takes two years and over $50,000 of dedication, care, and expert training.

That’s where the dog-loving community comes in. Your donation this Christmas helps fund the critical early stages: the breeding, the vet checks, the puppy raisers, and the specific training that decides which path they’ll take.

The Dog Who Found Her Voice: Lottie & Kineta

If you want to know what a Guide Dog can do, just ask Lottie.

Lottie is an aspiring country music singer and music teacher in Victoria. She could read Braille music by the time she was 10, but navigating the world—especially crowds, noise, and the sheer logistics of getting to rehearsals—was a massive source of anxiety.

Enter Kineta, her beautiful Guide Dog and best friend.

“I used to get very anxious about crowds and noise,” Lottie says. “Now, with Kineta by my side, I teach music, perform live, sing and have even landed a lead role in a musical theatre production.”

Kineta didn't just give Lottie a safe route to the stage; she gave her the confidence to step onto it. She is the furry, four-legged reason Lottie is no longer just dreaming of a career in music—she’s living it.

Beyond the Harness: The New Heroes of the Australian Community

We all know the incredible, vital work of a Guide Dog. But Guide Dogs Victoria has quietly expanded its mission to support more people in more places than ever before. This is the new frontier of canine compassion!

The Three Heroic Roles of Guide Dogs Victoria:

1. Therapy Dogs: These dogs provide emotional, mental, and physical well-being support through gentle interaction and companionship. They work in environments like schools, retirement homes, and various healthcare settings.

2. Court Dogs: They bring quiet calm and confidence to people experiencing trauma, particularly children. Their role is critical in supporting vulnerable individuals by sitting with them during legal proceedings or while they give testimony.

3. Guide Dogs: They empower people who are blind or have low vision to navigate the world safely and with confidence.
They are seen assisting handlers on public transport, navigating busy city streets, and throughout local neighbourhoods.

Last year alone, thanks to generous Aussies, Guide Dogs Victoria welcomed 137 new puppies and matched 83 dogs with new handlers across all three career paths. It’s a powerful reminder that not every puppy is destined for a harness, but every dog has a life-changing purpose.

This Christmas, Give a Gift That Transforms

As CEO Nicky Long says, "By coming together, we can empower more people... to live independent, fulfilling lives."

While we’re spoiling our own beloved dogs this December, consider giving a gift that helps a 'Little Helper' grow into a hero like Kineta, or a calming Court Dog.

Your support helps cover everything from vet checks for the new litters to the final, specialised training that enables a person like Lottie to finally step into the spotlight.

Ready to make a pawsitive change this Christmas?

Find out how your donation helps Little Helpers grow into life-changing partners and support the $300,000 Christmas Appeal today: vic.guidedogs.com.au/little-helpers

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