Beyond the Classroom: Young Animal Lovers Discover What Being a Vet Involves

From surgical skills to wildlife encounters, Future Vet Kids Camp gives young animal lovers a real-world taste of veterinary life this summer.

• Apply for a PetSure Scholarship by 30 November 2026
• Christmas gift vouchers available

What can a blood test tell us about a sick animal? How do vets stitch a wound? And what does it take to care for different species?

For curious young animal lovers, Future Vet Kids Camp offers a chance to explore these questions first-hand through practical activities, encounters with animals, and conversations with the veterinary professionals who care for them.

Returning to Waverley College in Sydney on 4–8 January and 11–15 January 2027, the five-day school holiday programme welcomes children aged 9 to 17—whether they dream of becoming a veterinarian or simply want to learn how to better care for animals.

A Virtual Online Camp will run alongside the Sydney programme from 4–17 January 2027, allowing children across Australia and overseas to join the classroom live, ask questions, and participate in real time.

The Sydney camp is already drawing strong interest from well beyond NSW, with registrations received from children in South Australia, Queensland, and Victoria, as well as international campers from South Korea, Fiji, and the United Kingdom.

Real-World Vet Experience Led by Bondi Vet Stars

Designed by twin veterinarians Drs Audrey and Alison Shen from the Bondi Vet TV show, Future Vet Kids Camp brings authentic veterinary medicine into the classroom. This January’s Sydney camp will be led by Dr Audrey alongside experienced instructors and guest presenters.

Having also expanded the camp to Singapore earlier this year, the sisters remain deeply passionate about inspiring the next generation of animal advocates.

Dr Audrey Shen explains that hands-on experiences give children the opportunity to build a meaningful understanding of animals alongside life skills that reach far beyond camp.

“As vets and mums, Alison and I love seeing children’s curiosity grow when they have a chance to get involved,” says Dr Audrey.

“Working through a veterinary case, for example, encourages them to look for clues, ask questions and discuss what might be happening to an animal. We want them to understand what they’re doing and why. Trying something unfamiliar and working together also gives them a chance to learn that they don’t have to know the answer straight away.”

“Whether or not they become vets, we want them to leave with greater confidence to explore their interests and a deeper understanding of how to care for animals.”

Learning Through Hands-On Experience

Camp activities are tailored across three dedicated age groups: Wombats, Kookaburras, and Junior Vets. Practical workshops give campers the chance to learn veterinary techniques using specially designed models, covering essential skills such as pet CPR, simulated blood draws, and suturing.

Older campers in the Junior Vet stream take their learning further through in-house surgical workshops led directly by Dr Audrey, practising techniques on realistic training models—including simulated desexing procedures. They will also work through clinical veterinary cases, discovering how practitioners use patient histories, blood tests, X-rays, and ultrasound scans to diagnose health issues.

Each group also heads out into the field:

• Wombats: Visiting Calmsley Hill City Farm and Sydney Zoo.
• Kookaburras: Visiting MediPaws—a specialist and 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital in Leichhardt (a brand-new addition to the camp programme)—to learn about emergency care and animal rehabilitation.
• Junior Vets: Travelling to the Hills Wildlife Sanctuary to explore Australian wildlife conservation, alongside a dedicated surgery observation day at Hills Animal Hospital.

Beyond clinical practice, the curriculum introduces children to a broad spectrum of animal-related careers while exploring animal health, behaviour, rescue, and native habitat conservation.

“Whether or not the kids end up following the path to a career in veterinary medicine, just being around different animals and making like-minded new friends has such a positive impact on them,” adds Dr Audrey.

Six PetSure Scholarships Available

PetSure, one of Australia’s leading pet insurers, is continuing its longstanding support by funding six scholarships for young animal lovers: three places for the Sydney face-to-face camp and three places for the Virtual Online Vet Camp. Applications close on 30 November 2026.

PetSure Chief Executive Officer Alexandra Thomas said:

“We’re thrilled to be back for a twelfth year with Future Vet Kids Camp. Each summer this programme helps young people with a love of animals have a taste of veterinary life, and we’re proud to help six more kids, in Sydney and online, be part of it.

“Supporting the veterinary profession and the next generation coming into it matters to us, and programmes like this play a part in that. Australia’s next great vet or vet nurse could be in this group. Whether these campers go on to a career in animal care or simply grow up as caring, confident pet guardians, we can’t wait to see where their passion takes them.”

Gift Vouchers and Enrolments

Families unable to attend in person can register for the Virtual Online Vet Camp from anywhere across the country.

For parents and grandparents searching for an unforgettable Christmas gift for a dog- or animal-loving child, the camp offers an inspiring experience packed with learning, skill-building, and new friendships. Gift vouchers are available.

Bookings are now open—visit www.futurevetkidscamp.com to secure a place or apply for a scholarship.

January 2027 Registrations OPEN NOW!

Face-to-Face Camp Dates: Jan 4 – 8 & Jan 11 – 15, 2027

Location: Waverley College, Waverley NSW | Daily hours: 9am – 3:30pm | Cost: $750

Virtual Online Camp: Runs Jan 4 – 17, 2027 | Cost: $295

For more information and to register online, please visit www.futurevetkidscamp.com or phone 0435 267 252. View the full Program Schedule.

About Future Vet Kids Camp

Future Vet Kids Camp offers veterinary-inspired school holiday programmes where children can explore their passion for animals in a safe, supportive environment. Led by qualified veterinarians, experienced instructors, and specialised animal handlers, the programmes encourage responsible pet ownership, introduce children to veterinary medicine and related animal professions, and nurture a lifelong appreciation for animal welfare. 

To discover more, visit www.futurevetkidscamp.com.

Good Beer, Good Dogs & A Very Good Cause: DoggoBrau Returns for 2026

Victoria’s High Country is pouring some serious love for our four-legged mates this November as Bright Brewery and RSPCA Victoria celebrate the sixth year of their annual DoggoBrau collaboration.

First brewed in 2021, DoggoBrau combines two things the independent Victorian brewery loves: great beer and dogs. 

Returning in 2026, DoggoBrau is once again a Tropical XPA (Extra Pale Ale—think of it as a lighter, ultra-refreshing pale ale packed with sunny, tropical aromas), brewed in Victoria’s High Country and featuring some of Bright’s most beloved local doggos on its cans.

With 10% of all DoggoBrau sales donated to RSPCA Victoria, the annual release has become one of Bright Brewery's most anticipated beers of the year, helping fund vital work caring for, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across the state.

Brewed for the Love of Dogs

For Bright Brewery, based in the dog-loving alpine town of Bright, the partnership is a natural fit. Dogs have long been part of life at the brewery’s riverside home, where four-legged visitors are almost as common as their beer-drinking owners.

Bright Brewery Operations and Brand Manager Evin Craney said the longevity of DoggoBrau was something the team was particularly proud of:

"The original idea was pretty simple. We love making beer, we love dogs and we thought we could bring the two together to do something genuinely useful. Six years later, DoggoBrau has become something our team, our customers and plenty of four-legged regulars look forward to every year. It's one of our favourite beers of the year and something our whole team gets behind. Every DoggoBrau sold helps RSPCA Victoria continue the incredible work they do for animals across the state."

RSPCA Victoria Senior Manager – Philanthropy & Corporate Partnerships Chris Doig echoed the sentiment, noting the shared commitment to animal welfare:

"Our partnership with Bright Brewery has been fantastic from the very beginning. Their entire team has shown genuine passion for the work we do, and our shared love of animals and the environment makes this such a natural collaboration. The funds raised through DoggoBrau and our other collaborations go directly towards supporting RSPCA Victoria's vital work. It's partnerships like this that make a real difference, helping us continue to care for animals in need across Victoria."

Release & Availability Details

And while the beer is strictly for humans, the reason behind it is all about their best mates:

• Style: Tropical XPA (brewed in Victoria’s High Country)
• Can Art: Features real, beloved local Bright dogs
• Launch Date: In stores, venues, and online nationally from Thursday, 12th November 2026
• Giving Back: 10% of all sales donated directly to RSPCA Victoria
• Where to Buy: Available nationally across independent bottle shops, select hospitality venues, directly on tap at Bright Brewery, and online via the Bright Brewery website.

When Times Get Tough, They Shouldn’t Have to Say Goodbye: How You Can Help Keep Pets and Vulnerable Owners Together

As Australians face their fifth interest rate rise this year—pushing the Reserve Bank’s official cash rate to its highest level in 18 years—mounting financial pressures are hitting home in the most heart-breaking way. For many vulnerable people, the surging cost of living is leaving them struggling to afford the most basic care for their beloved companions.

Melbourne-based charity Pets Of The Homeless is currently seeing record demand for its essential services, including pet food, veterinary care, and emergency shelter.

“These are people who love their pets dearly and are doing their absolute best,” explains Yvonne Hong, Founder and CEO of Pets Of The Homeless.

“Some are skipping meals so they can feed their dog or cat, while others are facing the impossible decision to surrender their pets. It’s our mission to prevent that from happening.”

Founded 11 years ago from a single suitcase of pet food, the state-wide Victorian charity has since provided over 3.3 million meals, helped more than 4,500 pets access vet care and temporary accommodation, and delivered over 47,000 nights of safe shelter.

A Lifeline for Kint and Hippo

For Melbourne local Kint, his Staffy Hippo has been his rock through some of the hardest chapters of his life. After facing homelessness during the pandemic, Kint was supported into housing. Craving companionship, he began fostering Hippo—and it didn't take long to realise she was already home.

“Hippo means everything to me. She's my best friend,” Kint says.

With Hippo by his side, Kint started rebuilding his life with hopes of eventually helping others in similar situations. But when Hippo suffered a severe knee injury, everything ground to an abrupt halt.

Hippo was in constant pain and required surgery—a costly procedure that Kint simply had no way of affording on his own.

“It was agonising to see her suffering,” Kint recalls.

Seeing his distress, Kint’s social worker contacted Pets Of The Homeless, who stepped in to fund Hippo’s surgery in full.

“When they said they could help, I was just so overjoyed,” says Kint. “I wouldn't have been able to get through it without their help.”

Triple Your Impact This Giving Day

Stories like Kint and Hippo's illustrate just how vital the human-animal bond is when hardship strikes.

“For someone facing homelessness, family violence, or financial hardship, their pet can often be their only source of comfort and stability,” says Yvonne.

“The thought of losing that companionship when they're already going through so much is heart-breaking.” To meet this unprecedented need, Pets Of The Homeless is holding its ‘Never Tear Them Apart’ Giving Day on Wednesday, 11 November.

Thanks to generous gift matchers, every single dollar donated on the day will be tripled, turning a $25 donation into $75, or a $50 gift into $150 worth of emergency food, vital veterinary surgery, and warm shelter.

“We know times are tough for everyone, and asking people to give when they're feeling the pinch themselves isn't easy,” Yvonne adds. 

“But the need for our support is growing, and no one should have to say goodbye to their pet when life gets hard.”

“With the community behind us, we can make sure they don't have to.”

To learn more or to have your donation tripled on Giving Day, visit Pets Of The Homeless.

Frontline Heroes, Rescue Animals & Global Giving: The 2027 Australian Firefighters Calendar Line-up

If there is one holiday tradition guaranteed to bring a smile to pet lovers’ faces, it’s the annual launch of the Australian Firefighters Calendar. The 2027 collection has officially arrived—and this year’s release is packed with rescue dogs, cheeky shelter kittens, horses, and Australian wildlife, all photographed alongside Australia’s frontline heroes.

Shot on the Gold Coast, the 2027 lineup features five distinct editions, each raising vital funds for animal welfare, rescue shelters, volunteer firefighter welfare, and wildlife conservation across Australia and overseas.

More Than Muscle: Over $3.5 Million Raised for Animals in Need

Since launching in 1993, sales of the iconic calendar have raised more than $3,500,000 for grassroots charities and animal rescue groups. Behind every glossy page is a real impact story:

• Rescue Dogs & Cats: The Rescue Dogs and Rescue Cats editions shine a spotlight on shelter animals looking for second chances. Every feline featured was fostered through groups like Best Friends Felines, helping raise awareness and funds for adoption.
• Saving Native Wildlife: The calendar provides vital multi-year support to Wildcare Inc in the Northern Territory (supporting a network of 140 carers rescuing sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife) and the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, home to Matilda—the world’s first 22-wheel mobile veterinary hospital capable of treating wildlife in disaster zones.

• Support for Rural & Volunteer Firefighters: Calendar proceeds directly support the Council of Australian Volunteer Fire Associations (CAVFA), funding equipment, mental health resources, and emergency financial assistance for brigades and volunteer firefighters who lost homes in bushfires.
• Global Animal Welfare: Support now reaches international sanctuaries, including disaster animal relief in the US, donations to Hong Kong Dog Rescue, and backing for European sanctuary L’Arca di Natalia in Sicily.

The 2027 Animal-Themed Editions

The 2027 calendar range offers four animal-centric options:

• ✔ Rescue Dogs Edition: Adorable rescue pups of all breeds and sizes paired with Australia’s frontline firefighters.
• ✔ Rescue Cats Edition: Playful rescue felines and kittens proving they run the show.

• ✔ Mixed Animal Edition: A celebration of Australian fauna and wildlife, featuring koalas, wombats, and native wildlife alongside firefighters.
• ✔ Horse Edition: Highlighting the quiet connection between firefighters and therapy/rural horses.
• (Plus the classic Hero Edition, spotlighting solo portraits of the firefighters themselves).

Where to Buy & Delivery Details

Whether you are getting a head start on your holiday gifting, picking up a secret Santa present, or treating your own wall to 12 months of rescue animals and frontline heroes, the calendars are available now.

• Price: $24.00 AUD (plus $5.95 standard shipping).
• Delivery: 5–10 business days tracked delivery (Express Post is also available for faster delivery).
• Order Online: Available directly via the Australian Firefighters Calendar official store as well as on Amazon Australia.

The Spoilt Oodle Christmas Experience 2026: Brisbane’s Festive Gathering for Pups & Their Humans

Looking for the ultimate way to celebrate the holiday season with your four-legged companion? 

The Spoilt Oodle Christmas Experience is arriving in Brisbane on Sunday 15th November, bringing together Cavoodles, Moodles, Groodles, Labradoodles, and all social, well-behaved doggy friends for two hours of festive pampering and holiday fun. 

Hosted by 3 Spoilt Dogs, the event is tailored especially for Oodles and small-to-medium pups (though friendly breeds of all kinds are welcome). 

From dedicated pamper zones to holiday treats and Santa snaps, here is what’s planned for the morning:

What’s Happening on the Day:

• ✔ MyCavoodle Spritzing Station: Freshen up your pup with a spritz of cologne so they are smelling sweet for their Christmas photo moment.
• ✔ ME Pet Photography Zone: Capture professional festive photo memories of your dog in their holiday best.
• ✔ Puptail Lounge: Drop by for a delicious dog-friendly pumpkin pupcup and some casual mingling.
• 

• ✔ Mrs Claus’ Barkery Zone: Because Christmas isn’t complete without stocking up on gourmet canine goodies and treats.
• ✔ The Naughty or Nice Confessional: A cheeky festive spot to confess your pup's mischief from the past year.
• ✔ Santa’s Village Markets: Browse bespoke pet accessories, dog wellness essentials, and unique holiday gifts from Australian pet businesses.
• ✔ Christmas Surprises: Every ticketed pup receives a special festive gift to take home.

Event Details & Essential Visitor Info

• Date: Sunday, 15 November 2026
• Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
• Location: St Gabriel's Church Grounds, 11 Bridgnorth St, Carindale QLD 4152
• Tickets: $44 – $110 per dog (human entry included). Every ticket also gives back, with $2 donated directly to Pets in the Park to fund vital veterinary care for pets whose owners are experiencing homelessness. Pre-booking is strictly essential as capacity is capped.
• Leash Policy: As the grounds are not fully fenced, all dogs must remain on a standard, fixed lead at all times (no extendable/retractable leads).
• Vaccination & Temperament: All dogs must be fully vaccinated (C5 or vet equivalent) and comfortable socialising in busy, lively group environments.
• What to Bring: Fixed lead, harness/collar, portable water bowl, poo bags, and your phone/camera for plenty of snaps.
• Bookings & Information: Secure tickets via the 3 Spoilt Dogs Event Page.

Rescue Dog Dougie Joins the Fight as Aussie Pet Parents Face Cost-of-Living Hardship

Aussie endurance runner, 2026 Young Australian of the Year, and Petbarn Foundation ambassador Nedd Brockmann is spearheading this year’s Tree of Hope Appeal. He’s joined by his faithful rescue dog Dougie, the foundation’s Chief Rescue Officer, to spotlight an urgent issue: the quiet sacrifices everyday Australians are making to keep their pets fed and cared for.

New findings from the Petbarn Foundation’s State of Sacrifice Report 2026 reveal a heartbreaking reality. While more than three-quarters of pet parents are cutting back on essentials to afford food and care for their animals, only one in five Australians knows that pet food banks and support programs exist.

Together, Nedd and Dougie are helping ensure that no loving owner feels forced to choose between feeding themselves and caring for their best mate.

The Hidden Sacrifices of Aussie Pet Parents

Conducted with Insight Studios and in partnership with the Animal Rescue Cooperative (ARC), the national research highlights just how far Australians are going to look after their four-legged companions amid rising cost-of-living pressures:

• 77% of pet owners are cutting back on themselves for the sake of their pet.
• 59% have prioritised buying an item for their pet over an essential need of their own.
• 54% have reduced their essential living expenses over the past 12 months to cover pet necessities.
• 1 in 4 pet parents have skipped meals so their pet can eat, while 46% buy cheaper groceries for themselves to maintain the quality of their pet’s food.
• 31% have delayed paying a household bill in the past year to cover pet food or care.
• Only 20% of Australians are aware that pet food banks or pet financial relief programs exist.
• 68% remain unaware of the true extent of food insecurity across the country.

“When I found Dougie, he had nothing. No one was looking out for him. Now he’s my best mate, and I can’t imagine life without him. That’s what a pet is to most people; they’re family,” says Nedd Brockmann.

“What I most want people to understand is how quietly it’s happening. There are people skipping dinner so their pet can eat, and they’re not telling anyone because they’re embarrassed.”

“Asking for help isn’t letting your pet down, it’s looking after them.”

Animal Rescues at Breaking Point

This silent struggle at home is placing unprecedented pressure on rescue groups and charities on the frontline. ARC’s national survey reveals that:

• 80% of rescue organisations have seen a surge in pet surrenders directly due to financial hardship.
• 76% of shelters and rescues are currently operating at or near maximum capacity.
• 69% report a decline in public donations over the past 12 months.

The crisis is especially acute for vulnerable Australians. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of rescue organisations report an increase in people experiencing homelessness seeking help for their companion animals. Furthermore, 78% of frontline groups emphasise that deep concern for a pet’s safety frequently prevents people from leaving domestic violence situations without pet-friendly crisis accommodation.

“For so many of us, our pets are family. When times are tough, people will do whatever they can to make sure their pets don’t go without, even if it means sacrificing their own needs,” explains Janelle Miller, National Petbarn Foundation Manager.

“Through our charity partners, we see first-hand what a difference a helping hand can make. Tree of Hope is about bringing communities together to ease that burden, helping people and their pets through difficult times, and keeping pets with the families who love them.”

Over a Decade of Keeping Families Together

Since 2012, the Petbarn Foundation has raised more than $40 million to provide shelter, veterinary care, food, and community outreach nationwide. This includes over $17 million in direct assistance to rescue organisations like the RSPCA, helping care for an estimated 320,000 animals.

Australia’s largest annual pet-related fundraiser, the Tree of Hope Appeal, aims to raise $1.8 million this festive season to support more than 80 partner charities—including VRA Rescue NSW, Second Chance Animal Rescue, Vets Beyond Borders, Lucky Paws Dog Rescue, and Empower Assistance Dogs.

How You Can Support the Tree of Hope Appeal

The Petbarn Foundation Tree of Hope Appeal runs until Saturday, 26 December 2026.

If you are in a position to help vulnerable pets and families stay together this Christmas, you can show your support in two simple ways:

• Donate in store: Add a $3, $5, $10, or custom donation at the checkout at any Petbarn store nationwide.
• Donate online: Visit petbarn.com.au/treeofhope to make a tax-deductible contribution or learn more about accessing community pet assistance.

Photography supplied by Petbarn Foundation.