In line with May to celebrate National Pet Month, Hills Pet Nutrition Australia are eager to raise awareness surrounding the pet obesity epidemic and help to inform pet parents about nutrition and lifestyle changes we can all implement to aid our pets in losing weight, giving them a healthier outlook: both now and into the future.

Pet Obesity Statistics

A significant percentage of Australian pets are overweight, mirroring global trends in pet health:

• 41% of dogs and 32% of cats in Australia are overweight or obese according to Pet Food Industry Association Australia.
• 1 in 3 pet parents do not recognise their pet's weight issues.

Obesity is one of the top health threats our pets face, yet is preventable with proactive management.

These statistics highlight a lack of education among pet owners. This issue doesn't just stop at extra kilos: it extends to affecting our pets' mobility, mood, and overall wellbeing.

Did you know that for every kilo your pet is overweight, it has the same equivalent impact as the following for us humans:

• Cat: 1kg overweight = 15kg overweight

• Small Dog: 1kg overweight = 6kg overweight

• Large Dog: 1kg overweight = 3kg overweight

*Approximate calculation based on a 68 Kg person, 4.5 Kg cat, 11 Kg small breed dog, and 25 Kg large breed dog.

Resources and Support - How to Identify an Overweight Pet

In addressing the challenge of pet obesity, Hills Pet Nutrition Australia offers valuable resources that can turn concern into action.

Onsite visuals and guides aim to support better healthy pet weight management through identifiers to spot clear indicators of whether our pets are in their normal and healthy weight range and provide detailed weight management guidance across all topics from pet fitness their caloric needs to educate pet parents on how to both reduce and maintain the weight of our pets, so that they can be in their best natural shape.

The L.O.V.E Test

Our simple tool, called the L.O.V.E. Test is a good reminder to help effectively assess your pet's weight providing a tailored assessment to understand the specific needs and health risks of your dog or cat.

✔️ L: Locating the pet's ribs

✔️ O: Observing from above

✔️ V: Viewing from the side

✔️ E: Evaluating feeding behaviour

Additionally, our Pet Calorie Converter tool demystifies the overlooked impact of human food on our pets by translating what those table scraps really mean in terms of a pet’s daily caloric intake.

This tool is a game changer for pet parents, aiding in making informed decisions that keep their pets daily food intake in line with their overall energy needs and health goals. Together, these resources seek to empower pet owners to actively manage their pets’ weights through informed nutrition choices.

As caretakers, it's crucial to understand that keeping our pets at a healthy weight is not just about aesthetics—it's about ensuring their overall well-being and quality of life. Regular veterinary check-ups and mindful dietary choices can go a long way in preventing the detrimental effects of pet obesity, fostering a happier and healthier life for our four-legged friends.

Dr Jessica Mills, Professional Consulting Veterinarian at Hill’s Pet Nutrition Australia said:

“Changed perceptions of what a healthy weight for a pet is or what that looks like is partly to blame. If the majority of pets we meet on the streets and at the park are overweight, then this can become 'normalised' regardless of where that sits on the scale of health and wellbeing. A few easy tips to tell if your dog or cat is overweight - you should be able to feel your pet’s ribs through their fur and your cat or dog should not have a sagging tummy. The team at your local veterinary clinic are a great place to get advice if you are concerned that your pet might be overweight.

As well as recognising when a pet is overweight, it’s important to do something about it. Being overweight or obese is more than just a cosmetic problem for dogs and cats. Being overweight causes a state of chronic inflammation that can lead to the development of many preventable diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and respiratory conditions, and can shorten a pet’s life expectancy by up to 2 years.”

Top 10 Tips to Support Pets' Healthy Weight Management 

    1. Know your starting point: A healthy weight can vary between breeds and species, and you need to know what’s ideal for your pet type. Typically, you should weigh your dog or cat in kilos and keep this figure in your pet’s health file as a clear starting point.

    2. Calculate exact calories: You need to know how many calories your dog or cat requires in order to maintain a healthy balance; consider age, weight, activity level and breed type amongst other things. Feeding guides on food packages are just that, a guide. Your pet’s feeding amount may need to be adjusted to support their individual requirements. The team at your local veterinary clinic will be able to help determine your pet's ideal body weight and energy requirements.

    3. Provide a good quality diet: A nutritious diet can make a huge difference in your pet’s lifelong health and happiness. Nutrition not only impacts your pets’ weight, but also contributes to healthy digestion, strong bones and a beautiful coat. Precisely balanced nutrition is key to any pet’s weight management journey.

    4. Make sure you measure meals: Many pet owners simply ‘guestimate’ when it comes to feeding their dogs and cats the right amount. Weighing out your pet's food is the most accurate way to measure their daily intake, and using the measuring cup provided by the manufacturer can also keep you on the right track. The feeding guide on the pack will provide you with a good starting point. Alternatively, your veterinary health care team or manufacturer's helpline can help you determine the ideal amount to be feeding your pet.

    5. Try to switch out ‘treats’: Don’t feed table scraps to your pet, especially if they are trying to lose weight. It might seem like a little ‘here and there’ but for some pets, it can be the equivalent of a whole meal. In human calorie terms, 28 g of cheddar cheese is the equivalent of 1.5 burgers for your 9 kg dog or 3.5 burgers for your 4.5 kg cat! Instead, get into the habit of rewarding good behaviour with fun, not with food. Pay your pet extra attention and affection with more cuddles, walks or playtime.

    6. Use food as a way to nourish the body and mind: Many pets will overeat when they are bored. Puzzle feeders or treat balls can be used to help keep your pet mentally active and slow down their eating habits by making them work for their food.
    

    

    7. Prioritise an exercise plan:

• For Dogs: Look at simple ways to increase their exercise.

Maybe it’s possible to add a couple of extra walks a week or increase the length of your daily walk. 

Try to change the route so they are exercising more intensely - going up hills or stairs are great to burn calories. 

Another great option is to find games they like such as fetch so that you both enjoy these daily exercise sessions.

• For Cats: Simple games such as “hunting” the light can encourage them to move more. Simply shine a torch on the floor and walls and the natural movement will encourage your pet to chase it. For cats that love their food, puzzle feeders and dividing the meal around the house can encourage more movement whilst they eat - in fact you can actually teach your cat to hunt for their food by hiding it around the house.

    8. Make it a family affair: Ensure that everyone involved in your pets care is aware of all changes to diet, exercise or health regime. That way it will be a lot easier to stick to their required plan and you will be more likely to stay on track as everyone can join together, to encourage a healthier lifestyle.

    9. Know what’s normal: It is important to have a base understanding of what is normal when it comes to the weight and size of your pet, just like you would do with your own body. Make sure you are regularly performing health checks and you know signs to look out for. Unexpected or sudden weight loss or weight gain could be an indicator of underlying disease and a good reason to check in with your vet.

    10. Take it slow: At the end of the day, healthy weight management for your cat or dog is a lifestyle change. Remember there is no quick fix and that nothing happens overnight. But by looking at the diet and exercise regime of your pets, you can help keep them healthy and happy for many years to come.

MEDIA RELEASE, 30th April 2024

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Recent warm and wet weather creates ideal conditions for dangerous dog parasites that can also infect people

A parasitologist is cautioning dog owners and families about the increased risk of exposure to Toxocara roundworms and the associated diseases in people, even in unexpected seasons. This risk is due to the recent warm and wet weather across the country and the forecast of an unusually warm winter by the Bureau of Meteorology.

People mainly become infected with Toxocara roundworms through the accidental ingestion of worm eggs in contaminated soil found on unwashed hands or unwashed fruit or vegetables. Young children are most at risk as they are more likely to play in contaminated areas and place things in their mouths.

“Exposure to the infection in people is more common than you think. It is estimated that up to 7% of Australians have been exposed to Toxocara roundworm [1]. The recent spate of warm and wet weather has created ideal conditions for the spread of canine intestinal worms like roundworm and hookworm, so more people are at risk,” said Dr Colella, from the University of Melbourne.

Toxocara Canis Roundworms found in dogs

“Worm larvae develop more quickly in optimal warm and wet conditions and can survive for longer periods of time. Additionally, heavy rain can result in the spread of worm eggs and larvae across the park, rather than having them found in or immediately next to a faecal sample.”

A park and parasite study [2] showed that almost half of all dog parks across Australia are contaminated with canine intestinal worms.

Roundworm eggs can be found in soil wherever dogs have passed faeces. Studies from all over the world have demonstrated high rates (13-35%) of soil contamination with roundworm eggs in public places such as sandpits, parks, playgrounds and beaches [3].

Separate to dogs, these worms can also infect a range of other animals such as chickens and cattle. Therefore, the ingestion of raw or undercooked meat from infected animals is another potential source of transmission.

If a human is infected with Toxocara roundworm, unlike the case in dogs, these worms don’t generally make their way to a human intestine to continue their lifecycle. Instead, the worm larvae migrate through the body, causing tissue damage as they go. Depending on the tissues they travel through, infection can result in a range of clinical signs, from mild through to severe and potentially life threatening.

“Fortunately, severe human disease due to Toxocara roundworms is rarely reported in Australia,” reports Dr Colella. “However, when it does occur it can have potentially life altering consequences, such as a permanent loss of vision when worm larvae migrate through the eye.

“Although these severe consequences are rarely identified, studies have shown that infection with roundworm can be positively associated with asthma in children, as well as potentially cognitive and developmental delays.[4]

“There is a growing body of evidence also linking infection with roundworm with neurodegenerative conditions in older individuals, including Parkinson’s disease and dementia [4], although more rigorous studies are needed to fully understand the significance of these associations.

The effect of weather on infection of animals and humans has been studied throughout the world. Optimal rainfall, humidity, and temperature have all been shown to be associated with an increased risk of human infection with Toxocara roundworms. Given the record-breaking wet weather we have seen recently, it is important that pet owners are aware of the risk and how to manage it.

When it comes to reducing the risk, Dr Colella says that it is about taking sensible precautions. “Dogs and cats are an important part of many Australian families, and we don’t want that to change. Pets can bring untold joy, with pet ownership shown to have a range of positive emotional, physical, and psychological benefits including improved mental wellbeing, increased independence, and increased physical activity,” he said.

Dr Colella added, “To help minimise the risk roundworms pose to people, infectious disease experts recommend promptly picking up and disposing of pet faeces, hand washing after interacting with potentially contaminated soil and objects and deworming dogs monthly with appropriate products. This is important for all dog owners, but particularly so for those with young children who we know are at greatest risk.”

To help reduce the risk of zoonotic disease transmission from pets to people, the Australian Companion Animal Zoonoses Advisory Panel developed a set of guidelines. 

The panel is comprised of seven independent veterinary and human infectious disease experts and the recommendations include:

✔️ Promptly pick up and dispose of faeces.
✔️ Deworm pets monthly.
✔️ Treat pets for external parasites year-round.
✔️ Regular veterinary health checks for pets.
✔️ Avoid feeding raw meat diets to pets.

Lead Photo: Lana Maltzer from Golden Paws Dog Therapy with her family and pets

References:

[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3787682
[2] The study involved the collection of 1,581 environmental faecal samples from 190 urban parks across the country, with collection taking place from December 2020 to March 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36007621/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30142562/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28781085/

MEDIA RELEASE, 29th April 2024

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Support veterinary professionals amidst challenges ahead of World Veterinary Day 2024 (April 27)

Dr. Sasha Nefedova, General Manager of Petstock Vet, issues a compelling call to action for Australians to reassess their approach to pet care and rally behind the veterinary profession in the face of ongoing challenges. 

Drawing attention to recent research findings that reveal concerning trends in pet healthcare, Dr. Sasha underscores the critical need for regular veterinary visits and respectful treatment of veterinary professionals.

The veterinary community in Australia faces pressure, as the demand for their expertise continues to escalate. According to the Petsure Pet Health Monitor (2023), the ratio stands at a staggering 2,172 pets to every veterinarian, far surpassing the 273 human patients per doctor. 

High workload combined with job stressors including talking about costs of veterinary treatment with clients has an impact. Tragically, veterinarians experience a suicide rate twice as high as other health disciplines and four times higher than the general population.

Emphasising the importance of proactive pet care, Dr. Sasha stresses the responsibility of pet owners to conduct regular checks on their furry companions, even if they may not visit the vet frequently.

Dr. Sasha Nefedova
General Manager of Petstock Vet

"While routine check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control are fundamental aspects of pet care," says Dr. Sasha, "pet owners play an integral role in closely monitoring their pets for any abnormalities that may necessitate a visit to the vet. 

These proactive measures empower pet owners to identify potential health issues early and seek veterinary care promptly, thereby reducing the need for emergency visits and safeguarding the overall well-being of their pets."

While these home examination tips and products can be helpful, Dr. Sasha still encourages that all pet owners are encouraged to bring their pets to the vet for regular check-ups and visits if problems persist.

Dr. Sasha's top tips for checking your pet’s health at home:

✔️ Eyes: Look for bright, clear, evenly focused eyes. Check for signs of conjunctivitis and consult your vet if you notice any abnormalities.

✔️ Skin: Check for any lumps, scratches, scabs, or swelling on your pet's skin. Look for signs of fleas and keep an eye on any new lumps, especially those that appear after a vaccination.

✔️ Ears: Examine your pet's ears for signs of infection, such as flaking, scabs, foul odour, excess wax, or discharge.


✔️ Mouth: Check your pet's breath and gums for signs of dental issues, such as bad breath, red gums, or brown streaks on the teeth.

✔️ Nose: Examine your pet's nose for excess mucus or discharge, which could indicate a respiratory infection.

✔️ Tail: Lift your pet's tail and check underneath for signs of parasites, such as rice-like grains or spaghetti-like worms.

✔️ Feet: Inspect your pet's feet for torn or overlong nails, cuts, swellings, or infections. Regularly trim your pet's nails to prevent discomfort and injury.

✔️ Small pets tip: It's essential to also monitor the teeth and nails regularly of small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs.

Overgrown teeth or nails can lead to discomfort and health issues in these pets. Regular dental checks and nail trims can help maintain their overall well-being.

Regular veterinary care is essential for detecting and addressing health issues early, ensuring the best possible outcomes for pets. 

However, amidst the ongoing challenges faced by veterinary professionals, it's essential to recognise and support their efforts. 

As Dr. Sasha Nefedova and Petstock extend their heartfelt appreciation to veterinary professionals worldwide for their dedication and compassion in caring for animals, they emphasise the importance of empowering pet owners with expert knowledge and resources. Together, they believe that Australians can make a positive impact on the health and well-being of pets and vet professionals everywhere.

MEDIA RELEASE, 24th April 2024

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Pound Paws Pet Fashion Week at Ovolo Hotel 

In an exciting collaboration between Pound Paws charity and Ovolo Hotel Woolloomooloo (Sydney), Australia's most stylish rescue canines are set to strut their stuff on the runway, embodying the essence of canine couture at its finest. 

This exclusive event celebrates the partnership between high-end fashion and pet adoption, highlighting the unique bond between pets and their owners, throughout Australia’s busiest week of the year, Fashion Week.

Inspired by the words of fashion icon Coco Chanel, who famously stated that fashion is not limited to dresses but encompasses ideas and lifestyle, these rescue dogs epitomise the spirit of fashion and companionship. With each step they take, they exude style and grace, in hope to captivate their fur-ever owner.

Luxury dog brand, Mon Petit Amour Manolo, will be launching at this event, with a mission to revolutionize the pet fashion industry. Founded by renowned designer Crysta Lynn, who drew inspiration from her globe-trotting adventures with her beloved pooch Manolo, the brand offers luxurious dog accessories that reflect the impeccable taste of both pets and their owners. 

By promoting responsible pet ownership and advocating for pet adoption, Mon Petit Amour Manolo is more than just a fashion label; it's a commitment to cherish and adore our furry friends as integral members of our families.

The launch event, set to take place at the Ovolo Hotel, Woolloomooloo, on Saturday 11th May, during Fashion Week, provides a perfect platform to bring together dogs and fashion. 

Partnering with Pound Paws charity, the event aims to raise awareness about pet adoption and encourage the Australian community to open their hearts and homes to rescue animals. Rescue dogs will take centre stage on the runway, showcasing their unique personalities, whilst being carried or walked with professional ballerinas from Village Nation Dance Academy. The runway show will prove that fashion knows no bounds, even in the world of pets.

Complementing the fashion spectacle, attendees can engage in various pop-up activities, including a Pledge station where pet owners pledge lifelong commitment to their furry companions, receiving a special golden pendant and certificate as tokens of their dedication. 

Additionally, live illustrations by acclaimed artist Grace Choi (as seen at Fendi, Prada and YSL events), an animal communicator profiling your dogs purpose in life, delectable doggie canapés by Sassy Treats, and a pup-arazzi photo wall promise to enhance the experience.

Pound Paws is recognised for its Dog Day events around Australia, which aim to raise awareness about pet adoption. 

Hosting engaging events, whilst tapping into local communities and educating them about responsible pet ownership, this event is just one of the many community events in their calendar. Pound Paws Founder Brittany Bloomer shares: "In our efforts to reduce euthanasia rates and promote responsible pet ownership, we have noticed a notable increase in the public's interest in considering pet adoption when it comes to getting a pet.".

Ovolo Woolloomoloo sets the bar high as a dog-friendly hotel, surpassing expectations by offering exceptional care for pets of all sizes and ages. 

From the moment dog guests arrive, they're greeted with VI-Pooch goodie bags and accommodations designed with their comfort in mind. 

Ovolo Woolloomoloo guarantees a luxurious sanctuary for both humans and their cherished pets. It's an ideal backdrop to immerse oneself in the fashion event while crafting enduring memories with your loyal four-legged companion.

MEDIA RELEASE, 24th April 2024

ANZAC Day holds profound significance in the hearts of Australians, marking a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the sacrifices of those who served. As we reflect on this day, Pet Insurance Australia pauses to remember the human heroes and the four-legged companions who have played an integral role in military operations.

Nadia Crighton of Pet Insurance Australia underscores the remarkable contributions of dogs throughout the history of warfare. "The invaluable role that dogs have played in times of conflict is truly remarkable," she reflects. "From specialised training to offering comfort and unwavering loyalty to soldiers in the most challenging environments, their impact cannot be overstated."

Though it gained prominence during World War II, the legacy of canine service dates back to World War I, notably with heroes like Sergeant Stubby of the 102nd Infantry, Yankee Division. 

Stubby's feats in detecting injured soldiers, detecting gas, and alerting troops to nearby threats set the stage for recognising future canine soldiers.

Credit: British Library (Unsplash)

"Amid the chaos of war, the presence of a dog provided a beacon of solace for many soldiers," Crighton observes. 

"It's the simple yet profound bond of unconditional love that our remarkable canines offer, providing strength and resilience to soldiers in their darkest moments."

Historical records indicate that by 1918, Germany had deployed approximately 30,000 dogs on the battlefield, while Britain had utilised up to 20,000. 

Various breeds were employed for tasks ranging from sentry duty to messenger services, with Dobermanns, German Shepherds, Airedale Terriers, and Bloodhounds among the most commonly utilised breeds.

"Many of these courageous dogs saved countless lives and comforted soldiers in their final moments," Crighton acknowledges. "As we honour the fallen this ANZAC Day, let us also remember the indelible contributions of our loyal canine companions and the extraordinary tasks they continue to undertake in service to the military."

Dogs in WWI & WWII: Unsung Heroes 

• Sentry Dogs - Trained to alert their handlers to suspicious activity with a low growl, sentry dogs like Dobermanns provided essential protection on the front lines.

• Messenger Dogs - Tasked with delivering critical messages across perilous battlefields when communication lines were severed, messenger dogs played a crucial role in wartime communication efforts.

• Casualty Dogs - These dogs bravely carried medical supplies to wounded soldiers on the battlefield and offered companionship to those in their final moments. Bloodhounds and Airedale Terriers trained by the Red Cross were instrumental in locating the injured.

The establishment of the British War Dog School in 1917 paved the way for formalised training programs for military dogs, setting standards that continue to shape canine service today.

"In modern times, dogs serve in diverse roles, from bomb detection to tracking," Crighton notes. "Australian Military working dogs are indispensable assets, providing specialised detection, early warning, and protection in operations worldwide."

As we commemorate ANZAC Day, let us pay tribute to the unwavering loyalty, courage, and service of these remarkable canine companions, whose contributions to military efforts past and present will forever be remembered.

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PetWell, The Saltiest Dog, and Dog Yog are thrilled to announce the inaugural Rolling Bones Tour, a series of events dedicated to promoting awareness among pet parents about the importance of selecting healthy food and treats for their pooches.

Their next event is on Saturday 4th May (2 pm) at Brighton Dog Beach, followed by a second event on Sunday 19th May (10am) at 18 Pence Lane, Docklands.

The excitement doesn't stop there as the tour culminates in their ultimate After Pawty on Friday 31st May (4pm) at Welcome to Brunswick.

Each event will feature goodie bags, as well as an incredible giveaway with thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes up for grabs. The highlight of the tour will be the announcement of the giveaway's lucky winner at the After Pawty in Brunswick.

These gatherings are not only about having fun but also about spreading awareness on the importance of providing our pets with nutritious and wholesome food and treat options.

Pet parents and dog lovers alike are encouraged to mark their calendars for the Rolling Bones Tour and join in the festivities.

Rolling Bones Tour May 2024 Dates: 

• 4 May 2024 - Rolling Bones Tour Event, Brighton Dog Beach, VIC

• 19 May 2024 - Rolling Bones Tour Event, Docklands, Melbourne, VIC

• 31 May 2024 - Rolling Bones Tour After Pawty @ Welcome to Brunswick, VIC

Ayda Hornak, Kate Opitz
& Olivia Hassan (L to R)
with @skippinggirl_shihtzus dogs

About the organisers

Ayda Hornak and Tracey Needham, the visionary owners of PetWell, focus on providing all-natural supplements and functional treats that cater to pets' unique health requirements. 

Their range of products is designed to complement pets' diets and enhance their overall well-being, ensuring they lead happy and healthy lives. 

Kate Opitz, is a highly experienced Vet Nurse and the owner of The Saltiest Dog, which provides ready-made raw meals for dogs, offering a convenient and nutritious option for pet parents seeking a wholesome diet for their canine companions.

Melbourne-based Dog Yog, founded by Olivia Hassan, is on a mission to revolutionise dog treats. Inspired by her own dog's struggles, she's created a premium dog ice cream, made with gut-friendly kefir, goat's milk, and other tummy-loving goodness that is packed with probiotics. 

MEDIA RELEASE, 23rd April 2024

Discrimination on the Rise: Half of Low Vision and Blind Community Report Taxi and Rideshare Refusals

This International Guide Dog Day (Wednesday 24 April), Guide Dogs Australia is launching its ‘Wherever you can go, Guide Dogs can go too’ campaign encouraging the community to better understand the legal access rights for Guide Dogs and celebrate their right to travel the world freely.

Taxi and rideshare refusals continues to be an unfortunate regular occurrence for those living with low vision and blindness as 46% experienced a refusal with a taxi or rideshare company in the past 24 months. Over one third (34%) stated that their taxi or rideshare was cancelled, while others were ridiculed or discriminated against (15%).

This is according to a recent Ernst & Young Sweeney report commissioned by Guide Dogs Australia which surveyed people with low vision or blindness to explore access issues including refusals.

The report found that Guide Dog Handlers are more likely to face access refusals or barriers in public – most commonly when booking rideshare or taxis – highlighting the discrimination against Guide Dogs.

This year the International Guide Dog Federation is also highlighting that access challenges for Guide Dog Handlers such as taxi and rideshare refusals are a global issue.

Sydney based student Zara Perry is aged 18 and was paired with her first Guide Dog Quinlan in mid-January has experienced multiple taxi refusals says, “as a Guide Dog and companion Quinlan has been incredible, the independence and confidence he has already provided me has been life changing. 

He has really enabled me to partake in day-to-day life and activities that everyone else can. That being said, since we got matched, I have faced countless access refusals with Quinlan despite his legal right to travel freely through the world.

I recently ordered an Uber and the driver who pulled up was really negative as soon as he saw Quinlan. I was instantly faced with a barrage of questions including 'you don’t look blind are you sure he is a real Guide Dog', when we were finally granted a lift the driver asked if I had a rug or blanket to put down for Quinlan. All of this to get a 15-minute lift to my parents’ house. 

This isn’t even the worst case most just drive past us and cancel. These constant incidents just make me feel very isolated and excluded.

When I am out in public with Quinlan I need to be constantly switched on and ready to explain his legal rights. I never know when we will get stopped, refused access or told I can’t do something. But the problem isn't Quinlan, he is doing a brilliant job and already breaks down so many barriers for me - the issue is the lack of awareness of his rights to travel everywhere I can go.”

In an effort to raise awareness about the access rights of Guide Dogs and to celebrate the indispensable role they play in guiding Handlers on their journeys, this International Guide Dog Day, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT will be hosting a Puppy Café.

Sydneysiders are to join them for puppy cuddles, pupper-cinos to celebrate all the amazing places Guide Dogs and their Handlers can go and to learn more about their vital legal access rights across Australia.

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT CEO Dale Cleaver says, “Guide Dogs play an invaluable role in breaking barriers for people living with low vision or blindness, enabling them to navigate and explore the world freely and safely. However, this is being constantly obstructed by the increase in access refusals, largely experienced in rideshare. Our community is facing these challenges on a daily basis.

Through our ‘Wherever you can go, Guide Dogs can go too’ campaign, we want to highlight the laws in place to ensure fairness, safety, empowerment and agency for our community. 

We really encourage everyone to learn more about these rights and advocate for a more welcoming world for those living with low vision or blindness, not only today in celebration of International Guide Dog Day, but every day.

Reference:

The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 is the law to provide fair access for those with a disability across Australia: https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2004A04426/2018-04-12/text

Guide Dogs Australia statement:

Guide Dogs working with their Handlers have a right to legal access to any event, business, or public premises, and in Public Transport or rideshare vehicles at all times.

A person with low vision or blindness who is accompanied by a Guide Dog is permitted to:

✔️ Travel on any form of public transport, including taxis, buses, planes, rideshare vehicles, trams and trains

✔️ Enter any public place

✔️ Enter healthcare or medical suites

✔️ Visit any theatre

✔️ Eat in any restaurant

✔️ Shop in any store (including supermarkets and food stores)

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MacKillop Paw Pals program gives young people a learning lifeline 

Help raise $360K for the Paw Pals Appeal's annual matched giving day on April 30 with all donations tripled by generous matching partners!

An innovative, community-funded program run by MacKillop Family Services is helping children in Victoria re-engage with education in a remarkable way.

Students with learning differences or special needs often struggle to engage with peers, concentrate on studies and learn effectively due to a host of classroom challenges. Social and emotional difficulties that kids face outside the school gates also hamper their progress at school.

“With the number of Victorian students with educational adjustments steadily rising over the past decade¹, it is more important than ever to give kids a learning lifeline,” said Brona Walshe, MacKillop’s Education and Engagement Programs Director.

MacKillop Family Services’ Paw Pals program uses Animal Assisted Education to connect with young people who find it difficult to attend school due to issues such as anxiety or learning difficulties, which make it really challenging for them to be in a classroom.

Struggling with school refusal, 12yo Harrison finds solace and a reason to learn 
from Paw Pals’ therapy dog, Indie

“Paw Pals facilitators work with therapy dogs to help vulnerable children who are disengaged from education to understand their emotions and behaviour, improve their confidence and reconnect with learning,” said Walshe.

“The therapy dogs provide a level of support that simply isn’t available in schools, helping children who struggle to understand their emotions by developing social and emotional skills and strategies.”

Since its launch in 2018 with one dog and a facilitator, Paw Pals has supported more than 800 kids to get back to learning! Today the program has 14 facilitators and more than 20 rotating dogs working across Melbourne, Geelong and Ballarat.

Besides school settings, Paw Pals therapy dogs also support vulnerable young individuals residing in MacKillop’s residential care homes, where they receive support to heal from past trauma and prepare for transition into adulthood.

Transforming lives with helping paws

In fact, the program’s inception unfolded in one of the homes with the introduction of Millie the Labrador and a 15-year-old girl named Claire*. Claire had autism and suffered from a deep childhood trauma that put herself at significant risk in the community. She spent most of her time closed in her room and was disconnected from staff and anyone around her.

After months of struggling to engage with the young girl, Walshe and program co-founder Sarah Castle decided to try a new approach – what would happen if they brought in a dog? The results surpassed their wildest expectations!

“The bond between Claire and Millie was instantaneous and profound,” said Walshe. “Interacting with Millie helped Claire discover more about herself and how people learn and communicate. She became engaged with learning as she used positive reinforcement methods to teach Millie the skills she needed to become a certified therapy dog.”

One day during a stroll with Millie, Claire said to Castle that nobody noticed her when she walked down the street, but everything changed when she walked alongside Millie. Suddenly, people were making eye contact, acknowledging her presence. Perplexed, Claire asked why that was. Castle responded, ‘Because you’re the one meeting their gaze’.

“With Millie’s help, Claire went from feeling invisible to being visible!” said Walshe. “Millie has since passed away, but her spirit lives on in the Paw Pals program.”

Future of Paw Pals is in community hands

The demand for Paw Pals has grown particularly after the prolonged COVID lockdowns which heavily impacted young people’s mental health².

“Today, the cohort has grown significantly from kids removed from their families and not attending school to those who come from stable family relationships, suffer from generalised anxiety and do not have learning support services available to them, especially in regional areas,” said Walshe.

“The Paw Pals program has shown to make a significant difference in the lives of children who require additional social, emotional and learning support. We are looking forward to launching the program in NSW later this year!”

MacKillop’s Paw Pals program is funded by the community, driven by an annual matched giving day appeal on Tuesday, 30 April.

This year, the Paw Pals Appeal aims to raise $360,000 and all donations made on or before 30 April will be tripled by generous matching partners: CCI Giving, Catholic Development Fund, iCare Staffing, Queensland Gives, the Paw Prints Matching Circle and Major Partner Petstock Foundation.

“Community support and donations help us to empower one more child with education and ignite a lifetime of opportunity,” said Walshe.

"Dogs possess a remarkable ability to help young people to navigate their emotions and challenges. Their genuine affection and ability to intuitively understand human emotions make it effortless for dogs to connect with people and inspire greater resilience and positivity.” says Lara Shannon, Paw Pals Ambassador.

Find out more on how to donate at pawpalsappeal.org.au

* Claire’s name has been changed due to privacy. 

References:

· The number of Victorian students with a disability has been steadily rising over the past decade. Source: Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority.

Ø In Victoria, more than a quarter of students (26.3%) received an educational adjustment in 2023. It compares with 24.7% in 2022 and 17.1% in 2015. Of the students who received an adjustment in 2023, 12.7% was for cognitive disability and 9.3% for social emotional.

Ø There are 272,463 students with disability in Victoria in 2023. Note: students with quality differentiated teaching practices (QDTP) do not receive a (financial) education adjustment, which is 8.7% of students in Victoria.

· 20,000 additional young Victorians were registered with learning difficulties, including ADHD or depression, during the six COVID lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. The 23% jump was the biggest spike in the nation. Source: VIC Nationals' press release.

About MacKillop Family Services

MacKillop Family Services operates in VIC, NSW, WA, ACT and the NT and has been committed to working with families and communities so children can thrive since 1997. 

Find out more about MacKillop Family Services at www.mackillop.org.au