19th May 2026
PetSure Hits $3 Billion Milestone as Real-Time Claims Change Aussie Vet Care
Australian pet insurance giant PetSure has officially surpassed $3 billion in total claims paid, marking a massive shift in how pet parents manage veterinary expenses across the country.
As veterinary medicine advances with high-tech diagnostics and specialist treatments, pet insurance has evolved from a "just in case" safety net into an essential tool used right at the clinic counter.
Driving the Shift: GapOnly® and Real-Time Claiming
A major catalyst for this milestone is the widespread adoption of GapOnly®, PetSure's real-time claiming system.
- Clinic Coverage: The system now operates across 85% of Australian veterinary clinics.
- How it Helps: It allows eligible claims to be processed during the vet consult. Instead of paying the massive bill upfront and waiting for reimbursement, pet owners only pay the "gap" out of pocket.
"One of the hardest parts of a vet visit is managing a large upfront cost when you are already worried about your pet. When that can be resolved in the room, in real time, it changes the experience for everyone."
— PetSure CEO Alexandra Thomas
Supporting the Community: PetSafetyNet
The $3 billion milestone also highlights the growth of the PetSafetyNet initiative, which assists dog owners facing severe financial hardship or barriers to care.
- Funded by $1 from every GapOnly® claim.
- Provides free 24-hour veterinary telehealth and subsidized urgent care.
- Has supported approximately 1,500 pets and provided nearly $1 million in care support since launching in late 2024.
Currently, PetSure manages more than 5,500 claims every single weekday and administers pet insurance across more than 20 brands in Australia and New Zealand.
5 March 2025
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| Alyssa O’Connell, Uber’s Head of Commercial ANZ and her dog Martini, and Nick Adams, Chief Commercial Officer, Greencross Pet Wellness Company with his dog Herbie |
Petbarn and Uber Eats deepen partnership to make pet parenting even easier
Pet parents can now source thousands of items for their furry friends on Uber Eats thanks to a new linkup with Australia’s leading pet retailer, Petbarn.
Whether customers are looking to pick up essentials in-store, elect two-hour next day or standard delivery service for online orders placed directly with Petbarn, or choose to order through the new Uber Eats partnership, pet parents now have more flexibility than ever to shop for their pet’s needs in the way that best suits them.
The partnership also marks the first loyalty integration of a retailer on Uber Eats in Australia, with Petbarn’s Friends for Life members able to unlock Petbarn member prices on the Uber Eats platform, making it even better value when shopping for their furry, feathered, or finned loved ones.
“Petbarn and Uber have enjoyed a long-standing partnership, offering our customers a market leading guaranteed two-hour delivery service and fulfilling millions of orders nationwide. Expanding our relationship to Uber Eats was a natural next step, making it even easier for pet parents to get what they need, when they need it,” said CEO of Greencross Pet Wellness Company, Lucas Barry.
Director of Commercial Uber ANZ, Alyssa O’Connell, echoed this sentiment: “As a pet owner myself, I recognize the value this partnership brings. Uber Eats is already a trusted delivery service for groceries, meals, and household essentials—now, we’re extending that convenience to pet care, reinforcing our commitment to serving all members of the household, including pets.”
This collaboration with Uber Eats further enhances Petbarn's ability to provide seamless access to high-quality pet care products, ensuring pet parents can easily provide the love and care their pets deserve.
There are thousands of items from Petbarn available on Uber Eats - from toys and treats, to grooming supplies and supplements.
Pet parents can now source thousands of items for their furry friends on Uber Eats thanks to a new linkup with Australia’s leading pet retailer, Petbarn.
Whether customers are looking to pick up essentials in-store, elect two-hour next day or standard delivery service for online orders placed directly with Petbarn, or choose to order through the new Uber Eats partnership, pet parents now have more flexibility than ever to shop for their pet’s needs in the way that best suits them.
The partnership also marks the first loyalty integration of a retailer on Uber Eats in Australia, with Petbarn’s Friends for Life members able to unlock Petbarn member prices on the Uber Eats platform, making it even better value when shopping for their furry, feathered, or finned loved ones.
“Petbarn and Uber have enjoyed a long-standing partnership, offering our customers a market leading guaranteed two-hour delivery service and fulfilling millions of orders nationwide. Expanding our relationship to Uber Eats was a natural next step, making it even easier for pet parents to get what they need, when they need it,” said CEO of Greencross Pet Wellness Company, Lucas Barry.
Director of Commercial Uber ANZ, Alyssa O’Connell, echoed this sentiment: “As a pet owner myself, I recognize the value this partnership brings. Uber Eats is already a trusted delivery service for groceries, meals, and household essentials—now, we’re extending that convenience to pet care, reinforcing our commitment to serving all members of the household, including pets.”
This collaboration with Uber Eats further enhances Petbarn's ability to provide seamless access to high-quality pet care products, ensuring pet parents can easily provide the love and care their pets deserve.
There are thousands of items from Petbarn available on Uber Eats - from toys and treats, to grooming supplies and supplements.
19 August 2024
Online Pet Store Swaggle partners with Flybuys to make pet parenting even more rewarding
Online pet store, Swaggle, announces a new partnership with Australia’s leading loyalty program, Flybuys to make pet parenting more rewarding than ever before, with Flybuys members able to earn points on every shop at Swaggle*.
Whether it’s catering to the pickiest palates, entertaining energetic pups or keeping your best friend in prime health, Flybuys network of over 9.2 million members will be able to collect points whilst they shop to deliver happiness for the whole family.
Pet parents can collect two points per $1 spent on auto-delivery orders and one point per $1 spent on other purchases*. To activate this offer, all shoppers need to do is add their Flybuys member number before they purchase, either at checkout or to their online Swaggle account.
“Swaggle is thrilled to be partnering with Flybuys to deliver our pet parents even greater value,” said Chad Burke, Head of Swaggle.
Whether it’s catering to the pickiest palates, entertaining energetic pups or keeping your best friend in prime health, Flybuys network of over 9.2 million members will be able to collect points whilst they shop to deliver happiness for the whole family.
Pet parents can collect two points per $1 spent on auto-delivery orders and one point per $1 spent on other purchases*. To activate this offer, all shoppers need to do is add their Flybuys member number before they purchase, either at checkout or to their online Swaggle account.
“Swaggle is thrilled to be partnering with Flybuys to deliver our pet parents even greater value,” said Chad Burke, Head of Swaggle.
"We know Australians see their pets as part of the family and want to provide the very best for them, however, can feel overwhelmed when it comes to seeking the best advice on what products or services are best for their breed. Swaggle aims to solve this problem with our end-to-end pet personalisation experience, making it quicker and easier to find what you need, and now with the added benefit of earning Flybuys points while shopping for their beloved pets."
Of the partnership, Head of Retail Partners Success at Flybuys, Briony Amey said: "We are delighted to welcome Swaggle to the Flybuys program. These partnerships enable us to provide even more value to our members, making everyday experiences more rewarding, whilst helping Australians get more of what they value beyond the check-out.”
Swaggle is home to Australia’s leading pet retail brands including Advance, Black Hawk, Royal Canin, Nexguard Spectra, Lifewise and Hill’s Science Diet, catering to dogs, cats, birds, small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, and fish, meaning that all pet parents can enjoy rewards from shopping their pet’s favourite brands.
Spoil your pet now and get rewarded online at swaggle.com.au.
*Excludes delivery fees, insurance, and paid vet services. Flybuys points cannot be redeemed at Swaggle. Full t&cs here.
Pet Projects International welcomes new Group Festival Director
For the first time since the event’s inception in 2013, Pet Projects International (PPI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Mathers as Group Festival Director of the Dog Lovers Festival and Cat Lovers Festival.
“Paul brings more than 25 years’ experience to the business as an Event Director across sales, marketing and operations, with highlights including the Melbourne Home Shows, National 4x4 Show and Motorclassica,” says Pet Projects International CEO and Co- Founder, Jason Humphris. “The appointment marks his return to large-scale consumer events, having most recently managed the Power + Utilities Australia conference and expo, and we look forward to seeing the new energy and perspective that Paul will bring to our incredible team”.
“As both a dog and cat owner, I’ve always held these events in high regard and know that Jason and the team have worked hard to grow them into successful, market leading events in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane,” says Mathers.
Of the partnership, Head of Retail Partners Success at Flybuys, Briony Amey said: "We are delighted to welcome Swaggle to the Flybuys program. These partnerships enable us to provide even more value to our members, making everyday experiences more rewarding, whilst helping Australians get more of what they value beyond the check-out.”
Swaggle is home to Australia’s leading pet retail brands including Advance, Black Hawk, Royal Canin, Nexguard Spectra, Lifewise and Hill’s Science Diet, catering to dogs, cats, birds, small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, and fish, meaning that all pet parents can enjoy rewards from shopping their pet’s favourite brands.
Spoil your pet now and get rewarded online at swaggle.com.au.
*Excludes delivery fees, insurance, and paid vet services. Flybuys points cannot be redeemed at Swaggle. Full t&cs here.
19 August 2024
For the first time since the event’s inception in 2013, Pet Projects International (PPI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Mathers as Group Festival Director of the Dog Lovers Festival and Cat Lovers Festival.
“Paul brings more than 25 years’ experience to the business as an Event Director across sales, marketing and operations, with highlights including the Melbourne Home Shows, National 4x4 Show and Motorclassica,” says Pet Projects International CEO and Co- Founder, Jason Humphris. “The appointment marks his return to large-scale consumer events, having most recently managed the Power + Utilities Australia conference and expo, and we look forward to seeing the new energy and perspective that Paul will bring to our incredible team”.
“It’s a testament to the strength of the Dog and Cat Lovers Festivals as they weathered the difficult times during Covid shutdowns and have come out the other end and ready for the next step in their evolution. I’m genuinely excited by that challenge and opportunities ahead”.
Mathers officially assumed his role at Pet Projects International in July 2024.
For more information on the next Dog Lovers Festival and Cat Lovers Festival, head to www.dogloversfestival.com.au and www.catloversfestival.com.au, taking place at Sydney Showground from Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 August and Melbourne Showgrounds on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October.
Pet food brand SavourLife sold to SunRice
SunRice Group, a global food business based in Australia, announced its acquisition of SavourLife, an Australian pet food company. SunRice Group's animal nutrition division, CopRice, will acquire the pet food company for AUD $20.3 million.
SunRice's CEO Paul Serra said the acquisition positions CopRice to further expand into the branded companion animal market where there is a growing demand for premium products. "CopRice already manufactures SavourLife's dog food range," said Serra. "The acquisition will use CopRice’s existing manufacturing facilities and supply chain to improve efficiencies and provide future growth opportunities."
Founded in 2013 by Michael and Kimberlee McTeigue, Sydney-based SavourLife donates half its profits to dog rescue groups and has given $8 million in support to these organisations since its beginning. SunRice said it will continue SavourLife’s mission of donating 50% of profits to dog rescue organisations.
The McTeigues will remain with the business post-transaction, along with all employees. According to Michael McTeigue, SavourLife has no plans to change its team, formulas, social mission or donation model.
"This is about two Australian companies that align in their purposes coming together," he added. "It’s a huge opportunity for the SunRice Group to help grow our business, which will expand our ability to deliver on our mission." said Michael McTeigue.
The transaction is expected to be completed August 30, 2024.
The SunRice Group is a global FMCG business and one of Australia’s leading branded food exporters, listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with significant markets in the United States, the Pacific and the Middle East, as well as expanding markets across Europe and Asia.
SavourLife is a family-owned, Australian company inspired by a love for dogs and a desire to make a difference. The company makes natural, Australian-made food and treats for dogs and donate 50% of profits to pet rescue organisations; helping them save and rehome abandoned dogs.
With a 33-year history of helping people protect and care for their pets, Radio Systems Corporation® and Radio Systems Australia is changing its name to PetSafe Brands™. The name change celebrates its position as the world leader in pet supplies as the company has consistently outperformed the market year over year.
From its roots as a start-up company selling pet fences in Knoxville, Tennessee, PetSafe Brands™ has expanded its presence with offices in Ireland, China, Vietnam, and Australia, where its head office is located on the Gold Coast.
Mathers officially assumed his role at Pet Projects International in July 2024.
For more information on the next Dog Lovers Festival and Cat Lovers Festival, head to www.dogloversfestival.com.au and www.catloversfestival.com.au, taking place at Sydney Showground from Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 August and Melbourne Showgrounds on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October.
14 August 2024
 Pets benefit as PetSure partners sweep the board in the 2024 Pet Insurance Industry Awards PetSure, Australia’s leading pet insurance underwriter, is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our partners at the 2024 Pet Insurance Industry Awards. These accolades, earned across multiple categories, highlight the exceptional value, care, and protection that our products provide to pets and their owners nationwide. Canstar 2024 Pet Insurance Awards
2024 Mozo’s Pet Insurance Awards 1. Experts Choice Awards Standout Winner as Australia’s Best Pet Insurer: petinsurance.com.au Exceptional Value Accident and Illness Pet Insurance: Pet Insurance Australia, Kogan Insurance, petinsurance.com.au, and Petbarn Insurance Exceptional Value Comprehensive Insurance Winners: Kogan Insurance and petinsurance.com.au Exceptional Quality Pet Insurance: Commonwealth Bank, Medibank, and petinsurance.com.au We are delighted to highlight petinsurance.com.au as the Standout Winner of Australia’s Best Pet Insurer. This award reflects their outstanding dedication to providing the best pet insurance solutions for pets, setting a new standard of excellence in the industry. 2. People’s Choice Awards
These awards underscore the high regard our customers have for our partners' products, which empower them to provide their pets with the best possible care. 2024 Product Review Awards for Pet Insurance
Finder Pet Insurance Awards 2024
These honours highlight the exceptional care and protection pets receive through our partners' comprehensive coverage, reaffirming their leadership in the pet insurance industry. PetSure would like to congratulate all the award winners for their achievements. "We are proud to partner with such dedicated and outstanding companies, and we remain committed to ensuring pets nationwide have access to the best insurance solutions for their well-being." |
23 July 2024
Pet food brand SavourLife sold to SunRice
SunRice Group, a global food business based in Australia, announced its acquisition of SavourLife, an Australian pet food company. SunRice Group's animal nutrition division, CopRice, will acquire the pet food company for AUD $20.3 million.
SunRice's CEO Paul Serra said the acquisition positions CopRice to further expand into the branded companion animal market where there is a growing demand for premium products. "CopRice already manufactures SavourLife's dog food range," said Serra. "The acquisition will use CopRice’s existing manufacturing facilities and supply chain to improve efficiencies and provide future growth opportunities."
The McTeigues will remain with the business post-transaction, along with all employees. According to Michael McTeigue, SavourLife has no plans to change its team, formulas, social mission or donation model.
"This is about two Australian companies that align in their purposes coming together," he added. "It’s a huge opportunity for the SunRice Group to help grow our business, which will expand our ability to deliver on our mission." said Michael McTeigue.
The transaction is expected to be completed August 30, 2024.
SavourLife is a family-owned, Australian company inspired by a love for dogs and a desire to make a difference. The company makes natural, Australian-made food and treats for dogs and donate 50% of profits to pet rescue organisations; helping them save and rehome abandoned dogs.
25 March 2024
From its roots as a start-up company selling pet fences in Knoxville, Tennessee, PetSafe Brands™ has expanded its presence with offices in Ireland, China, Vietnam, and Australia, where its head office is located on the Gold Coast.
The Australian office oversees operations in both the Australian and New Zealand markets, having been established in 2012 and playing a crucial role in the company's regional expansion. PetSafe Brands™ employs sales, marketing, customer care, supply chain, and finance specialists in Australia, contributing to both the local economy and the pet care industry. Globally, the company holds over 800 patents, enabling it to sell one PetSafe Brands product every second, providing families worldwide with the means to ensure the happiness, health, and training of their pets. PetSafe Brands is owned by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) and serves as a flagship company in their portfolio.
PetSafe Brands™ is a leader in the categories they compete in; pet fence and safety technology, pet waste, water and feed, training and more. The company prides itself on being a retail partner of choice by providing ground-breaking innovations in each category. Together, these strategies have led to record growth, consistently beating market averages year-over-year resulting in PetSafe Brand products becoming some of the most globally recognised pet products sold today.
PetSafe Brands™ CEO Rob Candelino says, "We are enormously proud of our 33-year history and the millions and millions of pets we have helped protect all over the world. With the rollout of our new ambitious Strategic Plan, our new company Purpose and our new company Values, we felt it was also the right time to update our corporate name to better reflect that we are home to some of the most influential brands in our industry", adding "But PetSafe Brands, to us, is much more than just a name change. It reflects a new energy in our company and a strong conviction that our unique combination of world-class technologies, a massive amount of IP, the best teammates in the business and our stable of beautiful, consumer-facing brands positions us incredibly well for another 33 years of growth and success".
PetSafe Brands™ stands at the forefront of category innovation with ground-breaking advancements that redefine modern pet care. Their integration of AI into forthcoming products and innovations will usher in a new era of pet care and safety. Additionally, they revolutionised pet hydration with the invention of the first pumpless fountain, showcasing their commitment to convenience and efficiency. Furthermore, their development of a 100% all-natural, high-performance litter underscores their dedication to people who want a sustainable cat litter and fewer chemicals in their homes.
From the many product innovations of PetSafe Brands™, some of the newer technologies include:
• Introducing the first pumpless fountain
• Introduction of a 100% all-natural, high-performance cat litter
• Introduced the world's smallest Bark Collar
• Introducing more cat households to the world's most popular self-cleaning litter boxes through the ScoopFree® line
PetSafe Brands™ CMO Molly Landman says, "Pets are some of the most important members of our families. So, we are doubling our efforts to reach new consumers to show them how our portfolio of PetSafe Brands keeps their pets happy, safe, and healthy. As the leader in the pet supplies category, our investment in the safest, most technologically advanced innovations, our strategic partnerships with retailers, and our commitment to driving growth through new marketing channels ensures more homes can have access to the best solutions for their pets."
PetSafe Brands™ Director AU and NZ, Kevin Jorgensen says, "The decision to rename our company to PetSafe Brands™ marks an exciting chapter in our company's journey. It underscores our commitment to innovation and reflects our evolution as a leader in the pet care industry. This name change not only symbolises our dedication to providing top-quality products but also highlights our focus on enhancing the bond between pets and their owners in Australia, New Zealand and globally."
PetSafe Brands™ Marketing Manager AU and NZ, Sarah Ambler says, "We have some of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world here in Australia and New Zealand. Pets are our family and our new company name and values reflect that. We are excited to continue our commitment to unleashing freedom for pet parents by keeping their pets happy, healthy and safe in Australia, New Zealand and globally."
The Board appointed Chair is Mrs May Wong, a Dogs Victoria Member / Exhibitor who is currently the organiser of the Canine Grooming Competitions at the Sydney and Melbourne Royals, May is a professional groomer herself and highly respected in the sport, the Committee Members will be appointed by the Dogs Australia State and Territory Member Bodies.
In the coming months the Committee will be formulating Competition Rules and Judges Approval Regulations for consideration by the Dogs Australia Board. In the future, we will be offering a Dogs Australia Groomers Certification Program.
Currently there are approximately 5,000 canine groomers in Australia. To participate in FCI Competitions a canine groomer must be member of a Dogs Australia Member Body, the introduction of Canine Grooming will see an increase in our membership and bring the list of Competitive Sports that we offer to our members to 15.
Our Competitive Sports are Agility, Dances with Dogs, Trick Dog, Draft Test, Earthdog Test, Endurance, Flyball, Herding, Lure Coursing, Obedience, Tracking, Retrieving and Field, Scent Work and Sled Sports.
7 March 2024
insurance.com.au launches pet insurance to assist everyday Australians
insurance.com.au has announced the launch of a comprehensive pet insurance solution to help Australians prepare for the costs of veterinary treatment.
CEO Dominique Requin expressed his excitement for the retail product: “This product is a testament to our commitment to providing comprehensive care and peace of mind for dog and cat pet owners”.
“Our new pet insurance solution further strengthens the range of quality products we offer our clients, whilst making a positive impact on the well-being of their pets”.
Key features of the product offering include:
✔️ Annual limits with no sub-limits: Annual limit options to choose from $25,000, $15,000 and $5,000.
✔️ Optional extra benefits including dental illness, supportive therapies and behavioural problems.
PetSafe Brands™ is a leader in the categories they compete in; pet fence and safety technology, pet waste, water and feed, training and more. The company prides itself on being a retail partner of choice by providing ground-breaking innovations in each category. Together, these strategies have led to record growth, consistently beating market averages year-over-year resulting in PetSafe Brand products becoming some of the most globally recognised pet products sold today.
PetSafe Brands™ CEO Rob Candelino says, "We are enormously proud of our 33-year history and the millions and millions of pets we have helped protect all over the world. With the rollout of our new ambitious Strategic Plan, our new company Purpose and our new company Values, we felt it was also the right time to update our corporate name to better reflect that we are home to some of the most influential brands in our industry", adding "But PetSafe Brands, to us, is much more than just a name change. It reflects a new energy in our company and a strong conviction that our unique combination of world-class technologies, a massive amount of IP, the best teammates in the business and our stable of beautiful, consumer-facing brands positions us incredibly well for another 33 years of growth and success".
PetSafe Brands™ stands at the forefront of category innovation with ground-breaking advancements that redefine modern pet care. Their integration of AI into forthcoming products and innovations will usher in a new era of pet care and safety. Additionally, they revolutionised pet hydration with the invention of the first pumpless fountain, showcasing their commitment to convenience and efficiency. Furthermore, their development of a 100% all-natural, high-performance litter underscores their dedication to people who want a sustainable cat litter and fewer chemicals in their homes.
From the many product innovations of PetSafe Brands™, some of the newer technologies include:
• Introducing the first pumpless fountain
• Introduction of a 100% all-natural, high-performance cat litter
• Introduced the world's smallest Bark Collar
• Introducing more cat households to the world's most popular self-cleaning litter boxes through the ScoopFree® line
PetSafe Brands™ CMO Molly Landman says, "Pets are some of the most important members of our families. So, we are doubling our efforts to reach new consumers to show them how our portfolio of PetSafe Brands keeps their pets happy, safe, and healthy. As the leader in the pet supplies category, our investment in the safest, most technologically advanced innovations, our strategic partnerships with retailers, and our commitment to driving growth through new marketing channels ensures more homes can have access to the best solutions for their pets."
PetSafe Brands™ Director AU and NZ, Kevin Jorgensen says, "The decision to rename our company to PetSafe Brands™ marks an exciting chapter in our company's journey. It underscores our commitment to innovation and reflects our evolution as a leader in the pet care industry. This name change not only symbolises our dedication to providing top-quality products but also highlights our focus on enhancing the bond between pets and their owners in Australia, New Zealand and globally."
PetSafe Brands™ Marketing Manager AU and NZ, Sarah Ambler says, "We have some of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world here in Australia and New Zealand. Pets are our family and our new company name and values reflect that. We are excited to continue our commitment to unleashing freedom for pet parents by keeping their pets happy, healthy and safe in Australia, New Zealand and globally."
18 March 2024
Dogs Australia announces National Canine Grooming Committee
Following discussions with the President of the FCI Grooming Commission, Mr Chua Ming-Kok, the Dogs Australia Board of Directors have resolved that a National Canine Grooming Committee be formed to conduct FCI Grooming Competitions.
Following discussions with the President of the FCI Grooming Commission, Mr Chua Ming-Kok, the Dogs Australia Board of Directors have resolved that a National Canine Grooming Committee be formed to conduct FCI Grooming Competitions.
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| Photo - Grooming with May |
In the coming months the Committee will be formulating Competition Rules and Judges Approval Regulations for consideration by the Dogs Australia Board. In the future, we will be offering a Dogs Australia Groomers Certification Program.
Currently there are approximately 5,000 canine groomers in Australia. To participate in FCI Competitions a canine groomer must be member of a Dogs Australia Member Body, the introduction of Canine Grooming will see an increase in our membership and bring the list of Competitive Sports that we offer to our members to 15.
Our Competitive Sports are Agility, Dances with Dogs, Trick Dog, Draft Test, Earthdog Test, Endurance, Flyball, Herding, Lure Coursing, Obedience, Tracking, Retrieving and Field, Scent Work and Sled Sports.
7 March 2024
insurance.com.au has announced the launch of a comprehensive pet insurance solution to help Australians prepare for the costs of veterinary treatment.
CEO Dominique Requin expressed his excitement for the retail product: “This product is a testament to our commitment to providing comprehensive care and peace of mind for dog and cat pet owners”.
“Our new pet insurance solution further strengthens the range of quality products we offer our clients, whilst making a positive impact on the well-being of their pets”.
Key features of the product offering include:
✔️ Annual limits with no sub-limits: Annual limit options to choose from $25,000, $15,000 and $5,000.
✔️ Optional extra benefits including dental illness, supportive therapies and behavioural problems.
✔️ Coverage for vaccinable diseases.
✔️ Phone health hotline where you can seek advice from vets and nurses.
✔️ Cancellation flexibility at any time, even if a claim has been paid.
✔️ Transparency on pre-existing conditions including an optional no-cost assessment.
✔️ Simplified annual excess per pet, rather than per condition or claim.
Developed with a focus on getting things done – quickly and efficiently - in the least possible time, insurance.com.au is made up of people who love insurance! We're driven to help people and businesses protect themselves financially against the unexpected.
About Insurance.com.au
insurance.com.au is part of the Steadfast Group, Australasia’s largest General Insurance Broker Network.
*Please note that terms and conditions apply, and any exclusions will be communicated to potential customers.
“Helping pets and pet parents live happier, healthier lives together is central to everything we do at Pet Circle. Through this partnership we hope to create a better world where every pet is happy, healthy, safe and loved. By helping to connect pets with loving homes, we can reduce the number of healthy pets that are tragically killed in pounds each year.” said Pet Circle Head Vet, Teagan Lever.
✔️ Phone health hotline where you can seek advice from vets and nurses.
✔️ Cancellation flexibility at any time, even if a claim has been paid.
✔️ Transparency on pre-existing conditions including an optional no-cost assessment.
✔️ Simplified annual excess per pet, rather than per condition or claim.
Developed with a focus on getting things done – quickly and efficiently - in the least possible time, insurance.com.au is made up of people who love insurance! We're driven to help people and businesses protect themselves financially against the unexpected.
About Insurance.com.au
insurance.com.au is part of the Steadfast Group, Australasia’s largest General Insurance Broker Network.
*Please note that terms and conditions apply, and any exclusions will be communicated to potential customers.
23 October 2023
Cost of living crisis hits home: Pets waiting for adoption expected to rise to 10,000
Two months out from Christmas, Australian families are being urged to consider adopting a furry family member with the number of rescue pets looking for a loving home expected to exceed 10,000 come January.
Currently, there are more than 7,750 pets looking for a home on petrescue.com.au, the biggest pet adoption platform and most visited charity website in Australia. These range from 8-week old kittens to 17 year old dogs, with large dogs and bonded pets the least likely to find a new home.
With September already seeing a 20% YoY increase in pets listed for adoption (5,149 vs 4,322), it doesn’t bode too well ahead of the holidays.
Come January – mid puppy and kitten season – these numbers are expected to swell further, with PetRescue forecasting they’ll exceed a record 10,000 pets looking for their forever homes.
The rising cost of living is largely to blame, with those giving up pets citing job loss and having to move for work or accommodation.
Tragically, an estimated 100,000 healthy pets are killed in Australian pounds each year, according to the Australian Pet Welfare Foundation. PetRescue is working hard to help transform the animal welfare system to protect vulnerable pets. They run various programs and initiatives to increase capacity for rescue groups, increase pet safety within the pound system and help find a home for every pet that needs one.
Pet Circle, Australia’s largest online pet supplies store, has today announced a three-year partnership with PetRescue, as the national animal welfare charity experiences an influx of pets up for adoption nationwide.
As part of the partnership, Pet Circle will support PetRescue with:
✔️ Raising awareness of pets in need of adoption, particularly large dogs and cats and bonded pets;
✔️ Encouraging pet owners to adopt a second pet;
✔️ Educational content from the Pet Circle Vet Squad to help all pet parents succeed in keeping pets in the homes they already have; and
✔️ Support Rescue organisations with donated and discounted pet supplies, so they can focus on saving lives and caring for more animals in need.
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| Pet Circle Vet Dr Angie Armstrong with her Kelpie x Tia adopted through Pet Rescue |
“PetRescue exists to protect vulnerable pets, and by partnering with Pet Circle we believe that we can make a real difference in the lives of thousands of pets and pet families.” said PetRescue Co-founder, Vickie Davy.
With the cost of living crisis a big contributor to the rising number of pets up for adoption, current pet parents are being reminded that there are several ways to reduce expenses for your furry family members.
- Ask for a better price. If you don’t ask, you don’t get, and many retailers will price match.
- Plan for pet expenses by putting a little aside each week. Estimate the cost of regular pet expenses including food, medication, health checks, toys and treats over the course of year, then divide this by 52 to work out how much to put aside each week.
- Keep up with preventative care, like flea and worming, as well as vet checks to catch health issues early.
Pet parents who welcome a new furry family member via PetRescue are also entitled to discounts at Pet Circle as well as personalised expert advice. You can find out more about what’s on offer here.
July 12, 2023
Calling Female Vets and Pet Business Owners
Last call for entries in the 2023 Australian Women's Small Business Champion Awards
The period for online submissions to 2023 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards will be closing soon: on Friday 21 July.
A prestigious and comprehensive programme that celebrates the growing number of female small business owners from across the country, this year’s Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards has thus far seen thousands of entries and – unlike other awards programmes – online entry is absolutely FREE.
According to Australian Government data, female small business owners currently represent more than one-third of all small businesses, and 2022-released data by the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows a 46 per cent jump in women business owners during the past two decades.
From dog walkers, farmers and mechanics to compounding chemists and environmentalists, the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards is arguably among the most diverse in terms of the breadth of represented industries and sectors, with more than 55 small business categories and four individual categories.
“There’s no doubting the rising success of female small business owners from all corners of this country,” says Steve Loe, Awards Founder and Managing Director of Precedent Productions, which coordinates the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards.
“Precedent Productions has been running the Australian Small Business Champion Awards since 1999 but especially during the past few years, we’ve noticed such a steep rise in the success of female-owned small businesses that we deemed it appropriate to have a standalone awards programme that showcases and honours the truly impressive work of women in small business,” adds Mr Loe.
Seasoned business awards judge, Jo Buchanan who is also the COO of Castaway Forecasting, says awards can be highly-lucrative, especially to small businesses, despite the time and effort – and in some cases, costs – associated with application processes.
“An award from a credible source can help to signify that a small business has ‘arrived’ and can also really work wonders in terms of boosting morale,” says Ms Buchanan.
“Telling your customers or clients how great your business is simply pales in comparison to independent, third party endorsement. Business awards hold huge marketing power, which can ultimately boost your bottom line.
“It’s safe to presume that the vast majority of Australian women in small business would be time-poor and so, the time and effort required for a quality award application can be initially off-putting; however, the long-term benefits can be simply priceless,” adds Ms Buchanan.
Expert Top Tips for submitting a winning business award application
1. Review the criteria and eligibility guidelines. Before putting any work into the application, ensure you are actually within the rules of entry. This also puts you in the right mindset to highlight your winning qualities in-keeping with the judging criteria
2. Answer all the questions. A missed question is like a missed element on your food plate; it’s typically disappointing.
3. Don’t hide your financials. Award judges are bound by confidentiality and most have run businesses themselves so understand and can see through your numbers. Sometimes it’s the financials that differentiate one business from others in the running.
4. Spill the tea. Don’t shy away from explaining the challenges of your business journey. It’s overcoming the challenges that often results in a business’s biggest successes.
5. Don’t worry about the occasional spelling mistake. You aren’t penalised for it and the judges can see through it.
6. Have fun with your application. Be creative and use humour where appropriate. It will help you to stand-out as memorable.
7. Back yourself. If you have poured your heart and soul into your business, but think you are still unworthy of an award, apply anyway if you’re within the rules of eligibility. If your small business serves a community and the families of your employees and you have some learnings to tell, you ARE good enough!
8. Do all you can to attend the main event. Such events are excellent for networking and enjoy the praise!
Finalists of the 2023 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards will be notified during August.
For more information and to submit an entry form before the 21 July 2023 closing date, visit: womensbusinesschampions.com.au.
March 27, 2023
Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) has improved the VetChat offer for their policyholders. Pet Insurance Australian customers can now take advantage of up to four monthly VetChat consults from experienced Australian veterinarians.
"At Pet Insurance Australia, the health and wellbeing of your pet is our prime focus, and we're always looking for ways to make it easier for you to care for your beloved pet," says Nadia Crighton, Pet Insurance Australia spokesperson. "We've partnered with VetChat, so our customers can get complimentary access to trusted vet care anytime, anywhere."
VetChat connects Australian pet owners with an experienced Australian registered vet to allow quick consultations – within minutes via online chat or a video call.
"This service is proving to be vital for many Australian pet owners when it comes to seeking professional vet help quickly for their companion animals," Crighton says. "Whether it's providing vet advice, getting at-home treatment plans, or confirming if you need to visit a vet in person, VetChat can offer peace of mind knowing pet owners can get professional veterinary advice when they need it the most."
Pet Insurance Australia customers can now get access to a VetChat consult membership across their current policy period, with up to four monthly VetChat consults. Customers can register with VetChat to access the consults from the day the policy starts.
"This service is significant for all pet owners," Crighton says.
"Having a vet at the click of a button for quick, concise, and professional vet advice can allow pet owners to seek out additional help if they are not sure about their pet's condition."This can be particularly important for communities currently experiencing high waiting times or minimal access to veterinary care for their feline friends or canine companions.
"Making it super easy for our clients to gain expert vet advice for their pet's health is very important to Pet Insurance Australia," Crighton says. "Services such as these allow many Australians to access experienced vet advice that could be a lifesaver."
Offering the service seven days a week, 24hrs a day, also gives Pet Insurance Australia customers access to professional vet advice any time of the day or night.
"This can be so important for pet owners, particularly if you are concerned about your pet's health after hours," Crighton says. "Gaining the information of the possible seriousness of a condition and if you need to head into an emergency hospital."
VetChat allows Pet Insurance Australia customers access to vets if the client's regular vet is unavailable while providing clarity or the urgency of the next steps. Giving pet owners an understanding of the health condition and offering expert vet advice and triage within minutes.
For the full terms of this offer, visit petinsuranceaustralia.
Register for VetChat at petinsuranceaustralia.vetchat.
Refuelling animal charities with passion and digital expertise, the secret to success for business and community
Many companies have found great success through the many benefits of giving back to humanity, including the animals that are part of the fabric of communities.
Celebrating their 6th birthday this month, Adelaide-based digital marketing agency Refuel Creative is one such business, having expanded their business internationally and using their knowledge to help Australian animal welfare charities achieve their goals and save them thousands of dollars.
Refuel Founder and CEO Ryan Jones is now calling Aussie businesses to give back to their community by sharing their knowledge and experience in the work they do.
Jones has worked in the not-for-profit (NFP) sector for a number of years and now works to help charities across Australia, saving them $400K (collectively).
“I’ve seen the challenges charities face and the impact they can have on their communities. If an organisation like ours can help them be more efficient with their limited resources, then we can help them improve their outcomes,” said Jones, a HubSpot certified marketer and SEO expert.
The pet rescue industry is a particular passion of the team at Refuel, who are long-term sponsors of the annual Companion Animal Rescue Awards, providing website, marketing and live-streaming services in addition to an in-kind prize for a winning animal rescue organisation.
Refuel has worked with past Rescue Awards winners Greyhound Rescue and the Rabbit Sanctuary, and this year will donate their expertise to Rachie’s Ratirement Home, a Brisbane-based pet rat rescue charity, for taking out last year’s ‘Refuel Creative Digital Marketing’ category.
Jones said, “We’re all animal lovers at Refuel, so the Rescue Awards is important to us. It gives the team an opportunity to work on something that recognises the hard work of these charities, shining the light on rescues, shelters and other organisations giving pets a second chance in a loving home.”
In the lead up to Christmas last year, the Refuel team celebrated the season of giving by spending a fun afternoon cuddling bunnies brought in by their client RSPCA South Australia.
“The team at RSPCA helped fill in our gaps in bunny knowledge, learning about the different breeds, and some of the ways they get abandoned. It was very tempting to take a couple of bunnies home!” said Jones.
Giving back to humanity
Refuel helps not-for-profit organisations in different ways depending on their needs, whether it’s getting their Google Ad Grant up and running, improving their Search Engine Optimisation so that they can be found online or building websites that help attract new donors and funders, and more.
The digital marketing team has also worked with The Animal Rehoming Service and AMRRIC (Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities), which collaborates with rural and remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to improve the health and wellbeing of their companion animals and the health, wellbeing and safety of communities.
“We do a lot for AMRRIC – CRM implementation, website, IT setup and support, training and more,” said Jones. “We cut their IT spend by thousands of dollars per year in 2017 and retained them as a client ever since, with our scope of work growing with the organisation’s needs.”
When The Animal Rehoming Service had issues with their Google Ad Grant, Refuel came to the rescue, which resulted in growth in website traffic social media following and newsletter subscriptions.
Refuel has competitive edge with launch in U.S
Last year Refuel launched into the United States market, giving the growing company a competitive edge in the marketplace.
“The U.S. market opens up a lot of opportunities not just for us but also our clients,” said Jones. “It's a larger market, with larger companies, which means more data. It's also a more advanced market, so we're doing things in America that won't become trends in Australia for 18 to 24 months. This helps the Aussie charities we work with stay ahead of the competition and benefit from the knowledge gained from working with businesses with a range of budgets and data sets.”
Jones encourages Australian businesses to give back to their community by sharing their knowledge and experience in the work they do.
“People often overlook the not-for-profit (NFP) sector as a whole but working with these organisations can have a range of benefits you may not have considered,” he said.
“There are of course the direct business benefits, potential client referrals and opening up new markets. But you may also be in a position where you or a loved one needs the support of these organisations. If we don't support them now, they won't be around when we need them.”
February 2, 2023
PETstock and Qantas Frequent Flyer emBARK on new partnership
February 15, 2023
Refuelling animal charities with passion and digital expertise, the secret to success for business and community Many companies have found great success through the many benefits of giving back to humanity, including the animals that are part of the fabric of communities.
Celebrating their 6th birthday this month, Adelaide-based digital marketing agency Refuel Creative is one such business, having expanded their business internationally and using their knowledge to help Australian animal welfare charities achieve their goals and save them thousands of dollars.
Refuel Founder and CEO Ryan Jones is now calling Aussie businesses to give back to their community by sharing their knowledge and experience in the work they do.
Jones has worked in the not-for-profit (NFP) sector for a number of years and now works to help charities across Australia, saving them $400K (collectively).
“I’ve seen the challenges charities face and the impact they can have on their communities. If an organisation like ours can help them be more efficient with their limited resources, then we can help them improve their outcomes,” said Jones, a HubSpot certified marketer and SEO expert.
The pet rescue industry is a particular passion of the team at Refuel, who are long-term sponsors of the annual Companion Animal Rescue Awards, providing website, marketing and live-streaming services in addition to an in-kind prize for a winning animal rescue organisation.
Refuel has worked with past Rescue Awards winners Greyhound Rescue and the Rabbit Sanctuary, and this year will donate their expertise to Rachie’s Ratirement Home, a Brisbane-based pet rat rescue charity, for taking out last year’s ‘Refuel Creative Digital Marketing’ category.
Jones said, “We’re all animal lovers at Refuel, so the Rescue Awards is important to us. It gives the team an opportunity to work on something that recognises the hard work of these charities, shining the light on rescues, shelters and other organisations giving pets a second chance in a loving home.”
In the lead up to Christmas last year, the Refuel team celebrated the season of giving by spending a fun afternoon cuddling bunnies brought in by their client RSPCA South Australia.
“The team at RSPCA helped fill in our gaps in bunny knowledge, learning about the different breeds, and some of the ways they get abandoned. It was very tempting to take a couple of bunnies home!” said Jones.
Giving back to humanity
Refuel helps not-for-profit organisations in different ways depending on their needs, whether it’s getting their Google Ad Grant up and running, improving their Search Engine Optimisation so that they can be found online or building websites that help attract new donors and funders, and more.
The digital marketing team has also worked with The Animal Rehoming Service and AMRRIC (Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities), which collaborates with rural and remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to improve the health and wellbeing of their companion animals and the health, wellbeing and safety of communities.
“We do a lot for AMRRIC – CRM implementation, website, IT setup and support, training and more,” said Jones. “We cut their IT spend by thousands of dollars per year in 2017 and retained them as a client ever since, with our scope of work growing with the organisation’s needs.”
When The Animal Rehoming Service had issues with their Google Ad Grant, Refuel came to the rescue, which resulted in growth in website traffic social media following and newsletter subscriptions.
Refuel has competitive edge with launch in U.S
Last year Refuel launched into the United States market, giving the growing company a competitive edge in the marketplace.
“The U.S. market opens up a lot of opportunities not just for us but also our clients,” said Jones. “It's a larger market, with larger companies, which means more data. It's also a more advanced market, so we're doing things in America that won't become trends in Australia for 18 to 24 months. This helps the Aussie charities we work with stay ahead of the competition and benefit from the knowledge gained from working with businesses with a range of budgets and data sets.”
Jones encourages Australian businesses to give back to their community by sharing their knowledge and experience in the work they do.
“People often overlook the not-for-profit (NFP) sector as a whole but working with these organisations can have a range of benefits you may not have considered,” he said.
“There are of course the direct business benefits, potential client referrals and opening up new markets. But you may also be in a position where you or a loved one needs the support of these organisations. If we don't support them now, they won't be around when we need them.”
About Refuel Creative
Refuel Creative is an award-winning digital marketing agency with offices in Australia, United States and New Zealand. For more information, please visit www.refuelcreative.com.au
PETstock and Qantas Frequent Flyer emBARK on new partnership
Caring for pets is set to become even more rewarding as Qantas Frequent Flyer and PETstock launch a new partnership.
From today, PETstock customers can now choose to earn Qantas Points when shopping online or from hundreds of PETstock stores around Australia, expanding on the existing PETstock Rewards program.
Qantas Frequent Flyers will earn 1 Qantas Point per dollar spent at PETstock and 5 bonus Qantas Points per dollar spent when making repeat purchases of participating brands stocked in store or online.
Pet owners will also be eligible to earn Qantas Points on PETstock’s wide range of eligible services including grooming, puppy school and veterinary services.
PETstock CEO, Shane Young, says the company is thrilled to partner with such an iconic and trusted Australian brand to bring more value to their customers.
“With over 6.9 million households now owning a pet across the country, we are always looking for ways to add more value to the lives of our dedicated pet parents. Partnering with the Qantas Frequent Flyer program is an opportunity for our customers to choose how they’re rewarded when they shop, either through our existing PETstock Rewards program, or now, by earning Qantas Points,” says Shane.
“We want our customers to be able to see the value of shopping at PETstock, not only for our extensive product range and renowned expertise of our staff, but because they can benefit from earning money back when they shop through our loyalty program, or earn Qantas Points to redeem on flights, hotel stays or on restaurants just to name a few.”
Qantas Loyalty CEO Olivia Wirth said the opportunity to earn Qantas Points while shopping and caring for their pets would be popular among frequent flyers.
“Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world and adding more value to the growing spend on pets is great news for our members,” said Ms Wirth.
Customers can earn Qantas Points at PETstock by joining PETstock Rewards and linking their Qantas Frequent Flyer details to their account before shopping in store or online. As part of the new partnership, customers will be able to join the Qantas Frequent Flyer program for free when shopping at PETstock.
Participation in the PETstock Rewards Program, including eligibility to earn and spend PETstock Rewards and Qantas Points, is subject to Terms and Conditions.
For further information or to find your nearest PETstock, please visit www.petstock.com.au
Victoria to conduct its first ever Pet Census in 2023
Victorians’ furry, feathered and scaly friends will be the focus of the state’s first pet census, which will gather crucial information about owners and their beloved companions.
The Andrews government on Wednesday announced more than $610,000 for the survey to be held next year.
Under Victoria’s current system it is up to local governments to collect and store most information about pet ownership and registration, meaning there is a lack of up-to-date data that is reliable and state-wide.
The census, slated to go ahead online next year, will ask questions about the pet owners and their animals, as well as pet health, how much it costs to take care of a pet, and the social and wellbeing impacts of pet ownership.
“We are delivering the state’s first ever pet census to better understand the important role pets play in the lives of Victorians,” Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.
“The pet census will help us ensure we’re best supporting our furry friends and their owners with the services they need.”
More Victorians are welcoming pets into their homes than ever, and pet ownership rates nationwide have increased by about eight per cent in the past two years, to 69 per cent.
RSPCA Victoria’s chief executive Dr Liz Walker backed the pet census, which comes after the state government announced $18.6 million to support animal care and protection in the budget earlier this month.
“Pets matter to people, so we support the implementation of a pet census knowing it will provide vital data to support targeted initiatives that will help Victorians better care for their pets,” Dr Walker said.
From today, PETstock customers can now choose to earn Qantas Points when shopping online or from hundreds of PETstock stores around Australia, expanding on the existing PETstock Rewards program.
Qantas Frequent Flyers will earn 1 Qantas Point per dollar spent at PETstock and 5 bonus Qantas Points per dollar spent when making repeat purchases of participating brands stocked in store or online.
Pet owners will also be eligible to earn Qantas Points on PETstock’s wide range of eligible services including grooming, puppy school and veterinary services.
PETstock CEO, Shane Young, says the company is thrilled to partner with such an iconic and trusted Australian brand to bring more value to their customers.
“We want our customers to be able to see the value of shopping at PETstock, not only for our extensive product range and renowned expertise of our staff, but because they can benefit from earning money back when they shop through our loyalty program, or earn Qantas Points to redeem on flights, hotel stays or on restaurants just to name a few.”
Qantas Loyalty CEO Olivia Wirth said the opportunity to earn Qantas Points while shopping and caring for their pets would be popular among frequent flyers.
“Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world and adding more value to the growing spend on pets is great news for our members,” said Ms Wirth.
Customers can earn Qantas Points at PETstock by joining PETstock Rewards and linking their Qantas Frequent Flyer details to their account before shopping in store or online. As part of the new partnership, customers will be able to join the Qantas Frequent Flyer program for free when shopping at PETstock.
Participation in the PETstock Rewards Program, including eligibility to earn and spend PETstock Rewards and Qantas Points, is subject to Terms and Conditions.
For further information or to find your nearest PETstock, please visit www.petstock.com.au
18 MAY 2022
Victorians’ furry, feathered and scaly friends will be the focus of the state’s first pet census, which will gather crucial information about owners and their beloved companions.
The Andrews government on Wednesday announced more than $610,000 for the survey to be held next year.
Under Victoria’s current system it is up to local governments to collect and store most information about pet ownership and registration, meaning there is a lack of up-to-date data that is reliable and state-wide.
The census, slated to go ahead online next year, will ask questions about the pet owners and their animals, as well as pet health, how much it costs to take care of a pet, and the social and wellbeing impacts of pet ownership.
“We are delivering the state’s first ever pet census to better understand the important role pets play in the lives of Victorians,” Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.
“The pet census will help us ensure we’re best supporting our furry friends and their owners with the services they need.”
More Victorians are welcoming pets into their homes than ever, and pet ownership rates nationwide have increased by about eight per cent in the past two years, to 69 per cent.
RSPCA Victoria’s chief executive Dr Liz Walker backed the pet census, which comes after the state government announced $18.6 million to support animal care and protection in the budget earlier this month.
“Pets matter to people, so we support the implementation of a pet census knowing it will provide vital data to support targeted initiatives that will help Victorians better care for their pets,” Dr Walker said.
APRIL 2022
Rising Demand for Home Visits Helping Handle Pandemic Pet Boom
Australia’s pandemic-fuelled pet boom has placed increased pressure on the nation’s struggling veterinary industry – but there’s a ray of hope in the rising demand for home delivered vet services.
Animal Medicines Australia’s 2021 Pets and the Pandemic Report* revealed pet ownership Down Under is at record levels. It showed an estimated 30.4 million pets are now calling Australia home and that the proportion of pet-owning households increased significantly from 61% to 69% in just over two years.
The report also found nearly 1 in 5 dogs and 1 in 4 cats joined Australian homes during the pandemic and, according to the Australian Veterinary Association, COVID-19 and the pet boom has exacerbated the country’s severe veterinary workforce shortage and the stressors facing vets.
The pandemic has, though, also sparked growing demand for home vet visits, which is playing a part in helping address the vet shortage.
“Many pet owners turned to home vet visits for the first time during COVID because restrictions like social distancing in the vet clinic placed extra unwanted stress on them and their fur babies,” said Operational Manager Kiri Brandli from Pawssum Vets, Australia’s largest network of mobile vets.
“The good news is that, with more demand for mobile vets, veterinarians who’d left or were thinking of leaving the industry due to long clinic hours and the emotional stress of the career, saw a new way to be able to stay in the job they love while also taking care of themselves,” she said.
Pawssum now has more than 240 vets working across Australia, up from 180 at the start of the pandemic.
“Mobile vets on our national app-based platform get to work as much or as little as they like and can even select what jobs they do while we handle the business side of things, so it’s a win-win for them and pet owners too who need to be able to access quality vet services,” Ms Brandli said.
Melbourne-based vet Dr Stephen Bennett said, he was attracted by the lower start-up costs and support offered by the Pawssum platform.
“I’d been looking for alternatives to the daily grind of clinic life when I came across Pawssum and had to try it out. I find pets and their owners are more relaxed in their home environment, particularly when I’m in control of my own schedule,” he said.
Four years since launching in Australia, it is set to expand its offering into New Zealand in April 2022.
* https://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/report/pets-and-the-pandemic-a-social-research-snapshot-of-pets-and-people-in-the-covid-19-era-2/
Rising Demand for Home Visits Helping Handle Pandemic Pet BoomAustralia’s pandemic-fuelled pet boom has placed increased pressure on the nation’s struggling veterinary industry – but there’s a ray of hope in the rising demand for home delivered vet services.
Animal Medicines Australia’s 2021 Pets and the Pandemic Report* revealed pet ownership Down Under is at record levels. It showed an estimated 30.4 million pets are now calling Australia home and that the proportion of pet-owning households increased significantly from 61% to 69% in just over two years.
The report also found nearly 1 in 5 dogs and 1 in 4 cats joined Australian homes during the pandemic and, according to the Australian Veterinary Association, COVID-19 and the pet boom has exacerbated the country’s severe veterinary workforce shortage and the stressors facing vets.
The pandemic has, though, also sparked growing demand for home vet visits, which is playing a part in helping address the vet shortage.
“Many pet owners turned to home vet visits for the first time during COVID because restrictions like social distancing in the vet clinic placed extra unwanted stress on them and their fur babies,” said Operational Manager Kiri Brandli from Pawssum Vets, Australia’s largest network of mobile vets.
“The good news is that, with more demand for mobile vets, veterinarians who’d left or were thinking of leaving the industry due to long clinic hours and the emotional stress of the career, saw a new way to be able to stay in the job they love while also taking care of themselves,” she said.
Pawssum now has more than 240 vets working across Australia, up from 180 at the start of the pandemic.
“Mobile vets on our national app-based platform get to work as much or as little as they like and can even select what jobs they do while we handle the business side of things, so it’s a win-win for them and pet owners too who need to be able to access quality vet services,” Ms Brandli said.
Melbourne-based vet Dr Stephen Bennett said, he was attracted by the lower start-up costs and support offered by the Pawssum platform.
“I’d been looking for alternatives to the daily grind of clinic life when I came across Pawssum and had to try it out. I find pets and their owners are more relaxed in their home environment, particularly when I’m in control of my own schedule,” he said.
“Being able to pick and choose cases I’m comfortable with is an added bonus. The flexibility of being able to choose when and where to work has improved my wellbeing and I can earn as much or as little as I like.”Pawssum.com.au operates in all major Australian capital cities and has so far carried out more than 42,000 home vet visits.
Four years since launching in Australia, it is set to expand its offering into New Zealand in April 2022.
22 APRIL 2022
Peak psychology body supports calls for veterinarian mental health funding
The Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi) is supporting calls by the Australian Veterinary Association for both major political parties to commit to investing $3 million over five years to save the lives and wellbeing of Australian veterinarians.
AAPi Executive Director Tegan Carrison said veterinarians had one of the highest rates of suicide in the world and ongoing mental health support was crucial.
"In Australia, a vet takes their own life every 12 weeks. Not only do we need to increase awareness of the pressure they are under and normalise the need to seek support, we need to make psychological services more accessible so help is there when it is needed," she said.
Dr Nadine Hamilton, AAPi psychologist and a leading expert on veterinarian mental health, said she made a number of submissions for grant funding for vet mental health but all had been rejected, including a pre-budget submission by AAPi in 2021.
"I feel the government is not seeing the desperate need in this profession. The funding we applied for would have gone towards counselling, wellbeing workshops and educational resources," she said.
Dr Hamilton, founder of the charity Love Your Pet Love Your Vet, said although community awareness of vets and their mental health had improved, there was still a stigma among vets about seeking help in the first place.
"A lot of vets feel ashamed about asking for help and often don't want to go to their GP in the beginning to get a referral to a psychologist - if they could self-refer it would streamline the process," she said.
"Vet nursing staff are also under pressure and often need counselling but for them it is often a budgetary issue that stops them from going."
Ms Carrison said the Medicare rebate for all psychologists needed to be raised to $150 so those who needed mental health care could afford it.
Dr Hamilton is the author of "Coping with Stress and Burnout as a Veterinarian" and provides reduced cost counselling via her website.
Tegan Carrison is the Executive Director of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPi), a not-for-profit peak body representing all psychologists in Australia.
Real Pet Food Company (RPFC) has announced its entry into the growing pet supplements market with the acquisition of Australian-based pet supplement start-up, People for Pets.
The acquisition marks RPFC’s first entry into the pet supplement category, a segment which David Grant, CEO, RPFC, says represents significant opportunity for the business.
People for Pets was built by a team of former Blackmores and P&G executives and has demonstrated impressive growth since its foundation in 2021. It recently launched Nectar of the Dogs, the first range of Australian made, plant-based, medicinal water treats.
Nectar of the Dogs was formulated to exacting, evidence-based standards in collaboration with vet surgeons and naturopaths. It uses organic and human-grade ingredients setting a new standard for dog supplements.
Through the partnership, RPFC will work to grow the People for Pets brand both domestically and in key global markets.
RPFC is investing alongside founder and ongoing shareholder and employee of People for Pets Gabriel Perera, who said: “This is an exciting partnership for People for Pets because we can combine the entrepreneurial style and natural animal health expertise that has made us successful to date, with RPF’s experience, resources, capabilities and international reach as a values-led, Australian global pet care leader.”
Six of Australia’s best detector dog graduates head overseas to enhance regional border security
Australia today says ‘sayonara’ to six of its best detector dog graduates, as they depart overseas for a career with Japan Customs, once again demonstrating the Australian Government’s cutting-edge border protection arrangements on the world stage.
Minister for Home Affairs Karen Andrews, herself a patron of the Australian Border Force’s Detector Dog Program (ABF DDP), said she was delighted to see Quiche, Remi, Quinton, Xolis, Naji and George graduate and find employment with Japan Customs, boosting the border security of our near region.
“Australia will continue to work collaboratively with Japan in support of a secure and stable region, including by stamping out transnational, serious and organised crime syndicates that seek to move illicit weapons, drugs, and cash across our borders,” Minister Andrews said.
“Our ongoing cooperation is strengthening our respective border arrangements and enhancing regional security.”
Each year the ABF’s DDP works to maintain the integrity of the Australian border, completing more than 24,000 targeted operations and making more than 2,000 detections of illicit substances and prohibited items across airports, seaports and postal gateways.
This includes more than 800 illicit drug detections, millions in undeclared currency, and tonnes of tobacco products in both air and sea cargo environments.
All six of the dogs going to Japan were trained by the ABF, which breeds around 160 Labrador retriever puppies each year to service ABF operational needs and those of a wide range of domestic and international law enforcement partners.
Domestically, ABF bred dogs are deployed to the Australian Federal Police; the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment; state and territory police; correction services; Seeing Eye Dogs Australia; and the Australian Defence Force. Internationally, the DDP has commitments to assist with detector dog capability in New Zealand, Taiwan, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and Japan.
Demand for ABF dogs continues to grow as more agencies discover the quality of the program's bred Labradors. For more information - including details about how to foster a puppy, you can read this article
31 JANUARY 2022
The manufacturer of effective pet cleaning products has pledged $150,000 in PetLab cleaning products to the not-for-profit animal shelter.
“We’re proud to announce we’ll be giving Pets Haven $150,000 in PetLab products (That’s approximately 85L per week of cleaning solution for the rest of the year…) so the animals they care for can be happy and healthy while they recover and find new forever homes.” - PetLab.
Pets Haven is a not-for-profit animal shelter that exists to give pets, big and small, a second chance to find the perfect home. The organization rescues pets in need and helps nurture them back to full health, before responsibly facilitating their re-entry into the community through a well-vetted adoption process.
“We rescue from death row pounds, cruelty cases, puppy farms, and the community. We endeavour to responsibly rehome these orphans back into the community to give them a second chance at life.” - Pets Haven.
All the animals that find their way to Pets Haven have often been mistreated, neglected, or abused. And the foster carers over at Pets Haven do an amazing job of nurturing them back to full health, getting them ready for adoption so they can finally join a caring and loving family.
PetLab believes that the donation, which is approximately 85L per week of cleaning solution for the rest of the year, will help make pet parenting and caring a bit easier for the team at Pets Haven, which will, in turn, ensure a more comfortable stay for the pets and animals that have found sanctuary within its walls.
Australia CAN’s President Dr Megan Alessandrini said, “Australia CAN has developed considerably with a range of strategies aiming to honour and strengthen the human-animal bond, and it was time to make this appointment. Trish is a perfect fit for Australia CAN.”
Ms Ennis joined Animal Welfare League Australia (AWLA) in December 2019 as National Executive.
“When the National Executive role came to my attention, I hadn't really heard of AWLA, and soon found out there were a number of Animal Welfare Leagues around Australia that didn't belong under the AWLA banner. It was clear there was great confusion out there about who we were and what we do,” she said.
Ms Ennis said she’s honoured to be appointed as CEO as she marks her second anniversary with the charity, celebrating her achievements to date.
“Older people are often forced to say goodbye to their companion animals when moving into aged-care accommodation, causing immense grief. Furthermore, the outcomes for their beloved pets vary, including surrender to a shelter. Australia CAN is working with aged care experts to find ways of preserving the bond between people and pets in aged care accommodation.
“Australia CAN needs donor support to continue the work of our members and corporate support to develop our programs. I look forward to building Australia CAN and developing strong partnerships and donor support to allow our members to continue the amazing work they do with the animals and families whilst continuing to develop the programs.”
Australia CAN’s projects include:
1) Pet friendly homes
✔️ More rentals welcoming pets
✔️ More aged care services welcoming pets
✔️ New building developments that are pet friendly
2) Pet friendly communities
✔️ More pet-friendly open spaces
✔️ Increasing transport options
✔️ Contributing to the role of school-based education
3) Pet friendly businesses
✔️ More pet-friendly workplaces
✔️ Increasing pet-friendly holiday accommodation options
✔️ More pet-friendly cafes and restaurants
✔️ Airlines and car transport companies to become pet-friendly
✔️ Better informed owners
✔️ Respect the rights of non-pet owners
✔️ Increasing the levels (coverage) of pet insurance
✔️ Better bereavement support at the end of a pet’s life
✔️ Develop accessible standards for responsible pet ownership
Follow CANA on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
New tricks for old breeds
Peak psychology body supports calls for veterinarian mental health funding
The Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi) is supporting calls by the Australian Veterinary Association for both major political parties to commit to investing $3 million over five years to save the lives and wellbeing of Australian veterinarians.
AAPi Executive Director Tegan Carrison said veterinarians had one of the highest rates of suicide in the world and ongoing mental health support was crucial.
"In Australia, a vet takes their own life every 12 weeks. Not only do we need to increase awareness of the pressure they are under and normalise the need to seek support, we need to make psychological services more accessible so help is there when it is needed," she said.
Dr Nadine Hamilton, AAPi psychologist and a leading expert on veterinarian mental health, said she made a number of submissions for grant funding for vet mental health but all had been rejected, including a pre-budget submission by AAPi in 2021.
"I feel the government is not seeing the desperate need in this profession. The funding we applied for would have gone towards counselling, wellbeing workshops and educational resources," she said.
Dr Hamilton, founder of the charity Love Your Pet Love Your Vet, said although community awareness of vets and their mental health had improved, there was still a stigma among vets about seeking help in the first place.
"A lot of vets feel ashamed about asking for help and often don't want to go to their GP in the beginning to get a referral to a psychologist - if they could self-refer it would streamline the process," she said.
"Vet nursing staff are also under pressure and often need counselling but for them it is often a budgetary issue that stops them from going."
Ms Carrison said the Medicare rebate for all psychologists needed to be raised to $150 so those who needed mental health care could afford it.
Dr Hamilton is the author of "Coping with Stress and Burnout as a Veterinarian" and provides reduced cost counselling via her website.
Tegan Carrison is the Executive Director of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPi), a not-for-profit peak body representing all psychologists in Australia.
If you're in Australia and need to speak to someone, please reach out to any of these help lines:
- Lifeline Australia - 131 114
- Beyond Blue Australia - 1300 224 636
- Suicide Callback Service Australia - 1300 659 467
- Mensline Australia - 1300 789 978
11 APRIL 2022
Real Pet Food Company (RPFC) has announced its entry into the growing pet supplements market with the acquisition of Australian-based pet supplement start-up, People for Pets.
The acquisition marks RPFC’s first entry into the pet supplement category, a segment which David Grant, CEO, RPFC, says represents significant opportunity for the business.
People for Pets was built by a team of former Blackmores and P&G executives and has demonstrated impressive growth since its foundation in 2021. It recently launched Nectar of the Dogs, the first range of Australian made, plant-based, medicinal water treats.
Nectar of the Dogs was formulated to exacting, evidence-based standards in collaboration with vet surgeons and naturopaths. It uses organic and human-grade ingredients setting a new standard for dog supplements.
Through the partnership, RPFC will work to grow the People for Pets brand both domestically and in key global markets.
RPFC is investing alongside founder and ongoing shareholder and employee of People for Pets Gabriel Perera, who said: “This is an exciting partnership for People for Pets because we can combine the entrepreneurial style and natural animal health expertise that has made us successful to date, with RPF’s experience, resources, capabilities and international reach as a values-led, Australian global pet care leader.”
7 FEBRUARY 2022
Australia today says ‘sayonara’ to six of its best detector dog graduates, as they depart overseas for a career with Japan Customs, once again demonstrating the Australian Government’s cutting-edge border protection arrangements on the world stage.
Minister for Home Affairs Karen Andrews, herself a patron of the Australian Border Force’s Detector Dog Program (ABF DDP), said she was delighted to see Quiche, Remi, Quinton, Xolis, Naji and George graduate and find employment with Japan Customs, boosting the border security of our near region.
“Australia will continue to work collaboratively with Japan in support of a secure and stable region, including by stamping out transnational, serious and organised crime syndicates that seek to move illicit weapons, drugs, and cash across our borders,” Minister Andrews said.
“Our ongoing cooperation is strengthening our respective border arrangements and enhancing regional security.”
Each year the ABF’s DDP works to maintain the integrity of the Australian border, completing more than 24,000 targeted operations and making more than 2,000 detections of illicit substances and prohibited items across airports, seaports and postal gateways.
This includes more than 800 illicit drug detections, millions in undeclared currency, and tonnes of tobacco products in both air and sea cargo environments.
All six of the dogs going to Japan were trained by the ABF, which breeds around 160 Labrador retriever puppies each year to service ABF operational needs and those of a wide range of domestic and international law enforcement partners.
Domestically, ABF bred dogs are deployed to the Australian Federal Police; the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment; state and territory police; correction services; Seeing Eye Dogs Australia; and the Australian Defence Force. Internationally, the DDP has commitments to assist with detector dog capability in New Zealand, Taiwan, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and Japan.
Demand for ABF dogs continues to grow as more agencies discover the quality of the program's bred Labradors. For more information - including details about how to foster a puppy, you can read this article
PetLab supports Pets Haven Animal Shelter with year's worth of cleaning solutions
PetLab is delighted to announce that it will be offering a show of support to the noble and commendable efforts of Pets Heaven, by giving the animal shelter a year's worth of cleaning solutions.
“We’re proud to announce we’ll be giving Pets Haven $150,000 in PetLab products (That’s approximately 85L per week of cleaning solution for the rest of the year…) so the animals they care for can be happy and healthy while they recover and find new forever homes.” - PetLab.
Pets Haven is a not-for-profit animal shelter that exists to give pets, big and small, a second chance to find the perfect home. The organization rescues pets in need and helps nurture them back to full health, before responsibly facilitating their re-entry into the community through a well-vetted adoption process.
“We rescue from death row pounds, cruelty cases, puppy farms, and the community. We endeavour to responsibly rehome these orphans back into the community to give them a second chance at life.” - Pets Haven.
All the animals that find their way to Pets Haven have often been mistreated, neglected, or abused. And the foster carers over at Pets Haven do an amazing job of nurturing them back to full health, getting them ready for adoption so they can finally join a caring and loving family.
PetLab believes that the donation, which is approximately 85L per week of cleaning solution for the rest of the year, will help make pet parenting and caring a bit easier for the team at Pets Haven, which will, in turn, ensure a more comfortable stay for the pets and animals that have found sanctuary within its walls.
12 JANUARY 2022
Companion Animal Network Australia appoints first CEO in its mission to support the human-animal bond and over 30 million Aussie pets and their families
Companion Animal Network Australia appoints first CEO in its mission to support the human-animal bond and over 30 million Aussie pets and their families
Leading animal welfare charity Companion Animal Network Australia – Australia CAN (formerly Animal Welfare League Australia) appoints its first Chief Executive Officer, Trish Ennis, in its mission to support the human-animal bond and an estimated 30.4 million* pets and their owners across Australia.
Australia CAN’s President Dr Megan Alessandrini said, “Australia CAN has developed considerably with a range of strategies aiming to honour and strengthen the human-animal bond, and it was time to make this appointment. Trish is a perfect fit for Australia CAN.”
“When the National Executive role came to my attention, I hadn't really heard of AWLA, and soon found out there were a number of Animal Welfare Leagues around Australia that didn't belong under the AWLA banner. It was clear there was great confusion out there about who we were and what we do,” she said.
Ms Ennis said she’s honoured to be appointed as CEO as she marks her second anniversary with the charity, celebrating her achievements to date.
“Companion Animal Network Australia launched in October 2020 and today clearly speaks to who we are – it is Australia’s only national peak body representing companion animals and the industry that works with them,” said Ms Ennis. “With a clear strategic plan to work to, we are now on the path of completing our initiatives. We are here to support the human-animal bond and the estimated 30.4 million* pets and their owners.”
Key projects in the works: Pets in Aged Care a priority
In August 2021, Australia CAN successfully launched www.rentwithpets.com.au, which works to decrease the number of pet surrenders due to archaic rental laws, whilst bringing landlords and tenants together.
Australia CAN’s next major projects include Pets in the Aged Care and Pets in Business, which is particularly poignant following COVID lockdowns with the increase of people getting pets and not wanting to return to the office full time, said Ms Ennis.
“Australia CAN is currently actively advocating in support of pets in aged care settings as a major priority for the organisation,” she said.
Key projects in the works: Pets in Aged Care a priority
In August 2021, Australia CAN successfully launched www.rentwithpets.com.au, which works to decrease the number of pet surrenders due to archaic rental laws, whilst bringing landlords and tenants together.
Australia CAN’s next major projects include Pets in the Aged Care and Pets in Business, which is particularly poignant following COVID lockdowns with the increase of people getting pets and not wanting to return to the office full time, said Ms Ennis.
“Australia CAN is currently actively advocating in support of pets in aged care settings as a major priority for the organisation,” she said.
“Older people are often forced to say goodbye to their companion animals when moving into aged-care accommodation, causing immense grief. Furthermore, the outcomes for their beloved pets vary, including surrender to a shelter. Australia CAN is working with aged care experts to find ways of preserving the bond between people and pets in aged care accommodation.
“Australia CAN needs donor support to continue the work of our members and corporate support to develop our programs. I look forward to building Australia CAN and developing strong partnerships and donor support to allow our members to continue the amazing work they do with the animals and families whilst continuing to develop the programs.”
Australia CAN’s projects include:
1) Pet friendly homes
✔️ More aged care services welcoming pets
✔️ New building developments that are pet friendly
2) Pet friendly communities
✔️ More pet-friendly open spaces
✔️ Increasing transport options
✔️ Contributing to the role of school-based education
3) Pet friendly businesses
✔️ More pet-friendly workplaces
✔️ Increasing pet-friendly holiday accommodation options
✔️ More pet-friendly cafes and restaurants
✔️ Airlines and car transport companies to become pet-friendly
 |
| Ovolo Hotels offers a V.I.Pooch Luxury Pet-Friendly Accommodation Package |
4) Responsible pet ownership
✔️ Respect the rights of non-pet owners
✔️ Increasing the levels (coverage) of pet insurance
✔️ Better bereavement support at the end of a pet’s life
✔️ Develop accessible standards for responsible pet ownership
Follow CANA on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
12 DECEMBER 2021
Educating and Creating Communities Enriched by Dogs
Today’s launch of the not-for-profit organisation, Dogs Australia coincides with a spike in dog ownership [1] and an eagerness to find the most suitable breeds from ethical breeders.
Australian Start-Up PETspot to combat mounting puppy scams
Dogs Australia is the new consumer face of the internationally recognised Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) and unites the expertise of an estimated 60,000 members [2] , including 11,000 registered breeders, 350 breed clubs and almost 500 sports for dogs clubs across all states and territories.
“The launch of Dogs Australia draws on the strength and experience of all the state and territory-based member bodies to advocate for dog welfare and responsible dog ownership,” said Dogs Australia President, Hugh Gent, OAM.
With a surge in dog ownership during lockdown and an alarming rise in online puppy scams, Dogs Australia is promoting the benefits of buying through its network of registered breeders.
“Our registered breeders follow a strict code of ethics, conduct health and DNA tests, provide a certificate of pedigree and give the owner on-going support,” said Mr Gent. “Our breeders are passionate about finding the right homes for their dogs.”
The rebranding of the 63-year-old ANKC includes the launch of a national education campaign in February to help potential dog owners find the most suitable breed to fit their family and lifestyle. The campaign includes a video series showcasing more than 180 breeds categorised into seven distinct groups:
1) Toys
2) Terriers
3) Gundogs
4) Hounds
5) Working Dogs
6) Utility
7) Non-Sporting
“A dog is a big commitment. It should never be an impulse buy,” said Dogs Australia ambassador and veterinarian, Dr Rob Zammit.
“We recommend people thoroughly research their dog choice and they can start with our online questionnaire to determine whether it’s the right time to buy a pup, which breed and breeder to choose.”
Dogs Australia aims to safeguard the future of pedigree dogs through ethical breeding and canine health research while promoting conformation shows and sports for dogs that fulfil a breed’s natural instincts.
[1] Animal Medicines Australia [2] Members including those of affiliated bodies
4 NOVEMBER 2021
Australian Start-Up PETspot to combat mounting puppy scams
Australian start-up, PETspot, is using technology to battle an increasing number of puppy scammers who have emerged in the past 18 months to take advantage of soaring demand for pets due to COVID-19 lockdowns.
According to the ACCC, as of September 30 2021, there have been 2,544 reports of pet scams with losses totalling more than $3 million this year, compared with just 498 complaints in 2019.
PETspot, a start-up run by three University of Technology Sydney alumni, allows safe pet transactions to take place through its online platform. The company independently verifies breeders on the platform and guarantees the buyer’s money once a payment is made, offering buyers a safe and simple way to find a companion responsibly.
Nick Figliano, the 23-year-old co-founder of PETspot said he came up with the idea for the company after he was nearly scammed out of thousands of dollars when trying to buy a puppy.
“I realised I was dealing with a scammer before I handed over any money, but many others aren’t so lucky.
“The industry is purely cash-based and there was no payment system that covers you for pet scams — until now. That’s where PETspot comes in, providing a secure way to pay for a dog or puppy and linking buyers directly with responsible sources. We’ve created Australia’s first payment system that is built specifically for pets.
“We’re confident in providing consumers with a guarantee of the safety of their transaction because of the rigorous checks and balances we have in place before a breeder is allowed to list themselves on our website,” he says.
Mr Figliano teamed up with two of his mates, Joseph Commisso and Jeremy Lay, to start PETspot and with the onset of COVID-19 the business has taken off.
There are now more than 200 authenticated breeders on the website and to date, $3 million dollars worth of dogs and puppies have found a home through the platform.
PETspot has created a strenuous code of ethics to fact-check dog breeders which includes providing proof of registration with regulatory bodies, showing health tests of the litter of puppies and an identity check.
For more information, visit www.thepetspot.com.au.
According to the ACCC, as of September 30 2021, there have been 2,544 reports of pet scams with losses totalling more than $3 million this year, compared with just 498 complaints in 2019.
PETspot, a start-up run by three University of Technology Sydney alumni, allows safe pet transactions to take place through its online platform. The company independently verifies breeders on the platform and guarantees the buyer’s money once a payment is made, offering buyers a safe and simple way to find a companion responsibly.
Nick Figliano, the 23-year-old co-founder of PETspot said he came up with the idea for the company after he was nearly scammed out of thousands of dollars when trying to buy a puppy.
“I realised I was dealing with a scammer before I handed over any money, but many others aren’t so lucky.
“The industry is purely cash-based and there was no payment system that covers you for pet scams — until now. That’s where PETspot comes in, providing a secure way to pay for a dog or puppy and linking buyers directly with responsible sources. We’ve created Australia’s first payment system that is built specifically for pets.
“We’re confident in providing consumers with a guarantee of the safety of their transaction because of the rigorous checks and balances we have in place before a breeder is allowed to list themselves on our website,” he says.
Mr Figliano teamed up with two of his mates, Joseph Commisso and Jeremy Lay, to start PETspot and with the onset of COVID-19 the business has taken off.
There are now more than 200 authenticated breeders on the website and to date, $3 million dollars worth of dogs and puppies have found a home through the platform.
PETspot has created a strenuous code of ethics to fact-check dog breeders which includes providing proof of registration with regulatory bodies, showing health tests of the litter of puppies and an identity check.
For more information, visit www.thepetspot.com.au.
If you have been the victim of a pet scam, you can report it to the ACCC via Scam Watch: www.scamwatch.gov.au.
Don't forget Domestic Animals in Drawing Victoria's Covid Roadmap!
Victoria’s roadmap out of Stage 4 lockdown must not ignore the welfare of our domestic animals as well as people, says industry peak body, the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA).
“During the Covid-19 pandemic we’ve seen many people turn to animal companionship to help them get through a very tough time,” said PIAA national president, Barry Codling.
“Just like their owners, pets need to be properly fed, exercised and cared for. “This isn’t just about veterinary and feed services, but access to other supplies and services that ensure domestic animals can live happily and healthily, even in the midst of this pandemic.”
“Even grooming and walking services are essential for many companion animals,” Mr Codling said.
“For example, if a pet owner is frail and elderly, and can no longer properly groom and exercise her beloved dog, she needs help in caring for that companion animal, just as much as they need help with caring for themselves.
“But in a crisis like this pandemic, these services are too easily under-valued when governments make decisions about what businesses can remain fully or partly open, and which cannot,” Mr Codling said.
With the Victorian government planning to release its roadmap out of the current lockdown on Sunday, including its plan to reopen the state’s economy, Mr Codling said it is highly important to treat domestic and companion animal health and welfare services as essential and not discretionary.
“We call on the Premier, Mr Andrews and the Minister for Jobs, Mr Pakula, to include pet services businesses in their roadmap and economic recovery consultations, and ensure the health and welfare needs of domestic animals, as well as livestock, are fully respected in all future decisions about extending Victoria’s State of Emergency and State of Disaster,” Mr Codling said.
PIAA is also calling for Victoria’s essential and emergency services legislation to be amended after this emergency passes, to ensure that animal welfare is specifically defined as an essential service in any future state of emergency.
“It’s vitally important, in times of grave emergency, that meeting the basic health and welfare needs of Victoria’s domestic and companion animals does not depend on the discretion of ministers and officials, but is unambiguously legislated as a category of essential service,” Mr Codling said.
Pet Insurance Australia – 2020 Mozo’s Pet Insurer of the Year
Pet Insurance Australia is thrilled to announce they have been named Mozo’s 2020 Pet Insurer of the Year.
“We are very proud to be the winners of the prestigious award for the second consecutive year,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “These awards are a great testament for our hardworking, pet-loving team at PIA, and also our clients who can rest assure knowing they have invested in a quality cover for their beloved pet.”
The Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Pet Insurance aim to recognise insurance providers that consistently offer exceptional quality and value products. The Mozo Exceptional Value awards recognise pet insurance that’s among the best-priced, based on a comparison of prices for selected dog and cat scenarios.
The Exceptional Quality awards recognise pet insurance cover that leads the market in the generosity of additional benefits and flexibility of options - irrespective of price. Policies must be among the best-ranked for both dogs and cats, to be awarded.
“Every day, Mozo keeps track of thousands of products in banking, energy and insurance,” Mozo Director Kirsty Lamont said. “We use our knowledge and experience to evaluate products that offer market-leading features and great value to customers. Being named Pet Insurer of the year, like Pet Insurance Australia has, shows that they offer a range of high-quality products to their customers.”
After evaluating a wide range of policy scenarios, Pet Insurance Australia has won Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Exceptional Value Accident and Illness and Exceptional Value for their Comprehensive Pet Insurance.
“To win these awards, insurers need to offer comprehensive products while still being affordable,” Lamont says. “These awards are a true testament to the outstanding products that Pet Insurance Australia offers to its customers. Pet Insurance Australia offers its customers a fantastic range of policies putting them a cut above the rest.”
Pet Insurance Australia offers a range of policies, including Major Medical, Comprehensive, and Pet Essentials and have won various awards over the years for excellence. They pride themselves on being a 100% Australian owned family operated business.
“PIA are also proud to offer the GapOnly service at participating vets,” Crighton says. “Allowing an even easier claim experience for both our clients and vets. The feedback we are constantly receiving on this service is just wonderful. It allows pet parents to concentrate on the health of their pet, during a stressful time, and not paperwork.”
About the Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Pet Insurance 2020
For the full list of winners and Awards methodology, visit: https://mozo.com.au/expertschoice/pet-insurance
Aussies helps the Petbarn Foundation smash its 2020 Seeing Eye Dogs fundraising appeal.
Thanks to Australia’s generous contribution to the annual Petbarn Foundation's Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, Petbarn has raised an incredible $775,000.
The figure is a record amount in what is the appeal’s seventh year - surpassing its $500,000 fundraising target by $275,000. Since the appeal first started in 2014, 85 Seeing Eye Dogs have been trained and 85 lives changed for the better.
The money raised means that 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be able to commence their two-year training process and enable Australians who are blind or have low vision to have greater independence, with the best of companions by their side.
Petbarn Foundation Chairperson, Scott Charters, says, “We’re extremely grateful to everybody that donated what they could to this great cause. We know 2020 has been a challenging year for so many people, yet our customers continue to amaze us with their generosity.
“The money raised will go towards helping Australians who are blind or have low vision retain their independence and mobility. Thanks to our customers across the country, 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be trained to provide companionship and special assistance to people who need it most.”
Royal Canin, one of the Petbarn Foundation’s key partners, also donated $50,000 towards the fundraiser while Vision Australia’s first-ever “Seeing Eye Dogs Puppy Games” helped raise awareness and donations for the cause too. The Puppy Games saw four pups go tail-to-tail to showcase their skills and the real-life challenges they may face as Seeing Eye Dogs.
Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs General Manager, Graeme Craig, says, “Our partnership with the Petbarn Foundation is integral to raising funds so that even more Seeing Eye Dogs pups can complete the extensive training they require.
“We’re overwhelmed with how much has been raised for this year’s appeal. Through the amazing efforts of Petbarn and City Farmers customers, we can continue to support even more Australians who are blind or have low vision.
“It takes a lot of expertise, time, love, patience and funding to raise these special dogs that will one day provide the gift of independence. For the right person, these highly trained dogs help them move confidently and navigate obstacles with much more reliability and safety.”
For more information on the initiative, please visit: www.petbarn.com.au/seda/
RSPCA NSW shelters reopen to the public
RSPCA NSW shelters and care centres across the state are ready to welcome walk-in adoptions effective Monday 15 June 2020.
Opening our doors again to the public brings an end to our successful Adopt from Home program.
Launched in April, the online initiative found homes for 2655 animals in RSPCA NSW shelters and Petbarn Adoption Centres across the state.
“Thank you to everyone who has continued to support us, it has been heart-warming to see the community turn to animal companionship during these challenging times,” said RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman. “We hope this support will continue as we reopen our doors to the public to adopt animals in our care.”
Please visit our website to find the latest opening hours for your nearest RSPCA NSW shelter, care centre and vet clinic, as they may have changed.
All operational changes are made in line with Federal and NSW State Government regulations implemented to limit the spread of COVID-19.
Whilst restrictions have eased, RSPCA NSW encourages the practice of safe social distancing and hygiene measures while visiting our locations. Limits on the number of people allowed inside the shelter at any time will be monitored and varied from shelter to shelter.
Danny the Pointer cross overhearing that prospective adopters can now visit him at the Coffs Harbour Shelter
All animals available for adoption nationally can be found online at www.adoptapet.com.au/.
Frontier Pets, is an Australian company founded 5 years ago by ex Shark Tank contestant, and disruptor of the Australian Factory Farming industry, Diana Scott.
Developed alongside one of Australia’s leading dog nutritionists, Dr Kathy Cornack, Frontier Pets spent two years perfecting the recipe to include all nutrients dogs should be eating based on their natural ecology.
Processed using a cutting edge freeze-drying technology ensures that colours, flavours, and most importantly, the nutritional content remain intact. Frontier Pet food ensures your dog will be healthier, have more vitality and be more likely to maintain a healthy weight.
Frontier Pets works closely with organic and free range farmers throughout Australia to source quality cuts of beef, chicken, pork and eggs, to not only create one of the most nutrient rich pet foods on the market, but also to create partnerships and support ethical farming practices across Australia.
3 SEPTEMBER 3, 2020
Don't forget Domestic Animals in Drawing Victoria's Covid Roadmap!
Victoria’s roadmap out of Stage 4 lockdown must not ignore the welfare of our domestic animals as well as people, says industry peak body, the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA).
“During the Covid-19 pandemic we’ve seen many people turn to animal companionship to help them get through a very tough time,” said PIAA national president, Barry Codling.
“Just like their owners, pets need to be properly fed, exercised and cared for. “This isn’t just about veterinary and feed services, but access to other supplies and services that ensure domestic animals can live happily and healthily, even in the midst of this pandemic.”
“Even grooming and walking services are essential for many companion animals,” Mr Codling said.
“For example, if a pet owner is frail and elderly, and can no longer properly groom and exercise her beloved dog, she needs help in caring for that companion animal, just as much as they need help with caring for themselves.
“But in a crisis like this pandemic, these services are too easily under-valued when governments make decisions about what businesses can remain fully or partly open, and which cannot,” Mr Codling said.
With the Victorian government planning to release its roadmap out of the current lockdown on Sunday, including its plan to reopen the state’s economy, Mr Codling said it is highly important to treat domestic and companion animal health and welfare services as essential and not discretionary.
“We call on the Premier, Mr Andrews and the Minister for Jobs, Mr Pakula, to include pet services businesses in their roadmap and economic recovery consultations, and ensure the health and welfare needs of domestic animals, as well as livestock, are fully respected in all future decisions about extending Victoria’s State of Emergency and State of Disaster,” Mr Codling said.
PIAA is also calling for Victoria’s essential and emergency services legislation to be amended after this emergency passes, to ensure that animal welfare is specifically defined as an essential service in any future state of emergency.
“It’s vitally important, in times of grave emergency, that meeting the basic health and welfare needs of Victoria’s domestic and companion animals does not depend on the discretion of ministers and officials, but is unambiguously legislated as a category of essential service,” Mr Codling said.
SEPTEMBER 3, 2020
“We are very proud to be the winners of the prestigious award for the second consecutive year,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “These awards are a great testament for our hardworking, pet-loving team at PIA, and also our clients who can rest assure knowing they have invested in a quality cover for their beloved pet.”
The Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Pet Insurance aim to recognise insurance providers that consistently offer exceptional quality and value products. The Mozo Exceptional Value awards recognise pet insurance that’s among the best-priced, based on a comparison of prices for selected dog and cat scenarios.
The Exceptional Quality awards recognise pet insurance cover that leads the market in the generosity of additional benefits and flexibility of options - irrespective of price. Policies must be among the best-ranked for both dogs and cats, to be awarded.
“Every day, Mozo keeps track of thousands of products in banking, energy and insurance,” Mozo Director Kirsty Lamont said. “We use our knowledge and experience to evaluate products that offer market-leading features and great value to customers. Being named Pet Insurer of the year, like Pet Insurance Australia has, shows that they offer a range of high-quality products to their customers.”
After evaluating a wide range of policy scenarios, Pet Insurance Australia has won Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Exceptional Value Accident and Illness and Exceptional Value for their Comprehensive Pet Insurance.
“To win these awards, insurers need to offer comprehensive products while still being affordable,” Lamont says. “These awards are a true testament to the outstanding products that Pet Insurance Australia offers to its customers. Pet Insurance Australia offers its customers a fantastic range of policies putting them a cut above the rest.”
Pet Insurance Australia offers a range of policies, including Major Medical, Comprehensive, and Pet Essentials and have won various awards over the years for excellence. They pride themselves on being a 100% Australian owned family operated business.
“PIA are also proud to offer the GapOnly service at participating vets,” Crighton says. “Allowing an even easier claim experience for both our clients and vets. The feedback we are constantly receiving on this service is just wonderful. It allows pet parents to concentrate on the health of their pet, during a stressful time, and not paperwork.”
About the Mozo Experts Choice Awards for Pet Insurance 2020
For the full list of winners and Awards methodology, visit: https://mozo.com.au/expertschoice/pet-insurance
AUGUST 19, 2020
The Petbarn Foundation is helping to train 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies!
Aussies helps the Petbarn Foundation smash its 2020 Seeing Eye Dogs fundraising appeal.
Thanks to Australia’s generous contribution to the annual Petbarn Foundation's Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, Petbarn has raised an incredible $775,000.
The figure is a record amount in what is the appeal’s seventh year - surpassing its $500,000 fundraising target by $275,000. Since the appeal first started in 2014, 85 Seeing Eye Dogs have been trained and 85 lives changed for the better.
The money raised means that 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be able to commence their two-year training process and enable Australians who are blind or have low vision to have greater independence, with the best of companions by their side.
Petbarn Foundation Chairperson, Scott Charters, says, “We’re extremely grateful to everybody that donated what they could to this great cause. We know 2020 has been a challenging year for so many people, yet our customers continue to amaze us with their generosity.
“The money raised will go towards helping Australians who are blind or have low vision retain their independence and mobility. Thanks to our customers across the country, 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be trained to provide companionship and special assistance to people who need it most.”
Royal Canin, one of the Petbarn Foundation’s key partners, also donated $50,000 towards the fundraiser while Vision Australia’s first-ever “Seeing Eye Dogs Puppy Games” helped raise awareness and donations for the cause too. The Puppy Games saw four pups go tail-to-tail to showcase their skills and the real-life challenges they may face as Seeing Eye Dogs.
Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs General Manager, Graeme Craig, says, “Our partnership with the Petbarn Foundation is integral to raising funds so that even more Seeing Eye Dogs pups can complete the extensive training they require.
“We’re overwhelmed with how much has been raised for this year’s appeal. Through the amazing efforts of Petbarn and City Farmers customers, we can continue to support even more Australians who are blind or have low vision.
“It takes a lot of expertise, time, love, patience and funding to raise these special dogs that will one day provide the gift of independence. For the right person, these highly trained dogs help them move confidently and navigate obstacles with much more reliability and safety.”
For more information on the initiative, please visit: www.petbarn.com.au/seda/
JUNE 15, 2020
RSPCA NSW shelters and care centres across the state are ready to welcome walk-in adoptions effective Monday 15 June 2020.
Opening our doors again to the public brings an end to our successful Adopt from Home program.
Launched in April, the online initiative found homes for 2655 animals in RSPCA NSW shelters and Petbarn Adoption Centres across the state.
“Thank you to everyone who has continued to support us, it has been heart-warming to see the community turn to animal companionship during these challenging times,” said RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman. “We hope this support will continue as we reopen our doors to the public to adopt animals in our care.”
Please visit our website to find the latest opening hours for your nearest RSPCA NSW shelter, care centre and vet clinic, as they may have changed.
All operational changes are made in line with Federal and NSW State Government regulations implemented to limit the spread of COVID-19.Whilst restrictions have eased, RSPCA NSW encourages the practice of safe social distancing and hygiene measures while visiting our locations. Limits on the number of people allowed inside the shelter at any time will be monitored and varied from shelter to shelter.
Danny the Pointer cross overhearing that prospective adopters can now visit him at the Coffs Harbour Shelter
All animals available for adoption nationally can be found online at www.adoptapet.com.au/.
JUNE 10, 2020
Frontier Pets - On a Mission to End Factory Farming
Frontier Pets, is an Australian company founded 5 years ago by ex Shark Tank contestant, and disruptor of the Australian Factory Farming industry, Diana Scott.
Trailblazing a new way forward for the Australian pet food industry and ruffling a few feathers along the way, Frontier Pets have made it their mission to put an end to the 500 million Australian animals currently stuck in the vortex of animal cruelty which is Factory Farming, and they want you and your dog to join them in the battle.
Frontier Pets founder, Diana Scott, is a strong believer in organic and free range produce, however, she saw a gap in the market for ethical food options available for her pets.
Frontier Pets founder, Diana Scott, is a strong believer in organic and free range produce, however, she saw a gap in the market for ethical food options available for her pets.
Through research Scott came to realise that the Australian pet food industry is essentially propping up the Factory Farming industry in Australia.
Frontier Pets have produced a range of superior pet products using only high welfare and organic ingredients while also supporting ethical Australian producers. By supporting ethical meat suppliers, and bringing awareness to the unethical and inhumane practices of Factory Farming, Frontier Pets hopes to have these methods shut down once and for all.
“In our desire to produce cost effective meat, we’ve created concentration camps for animals. And the pet food manufacturing industry is supporting this by using the off-cuts of Factory Farmed animals in their pet food. It’s not acceptable and it’s not necessary.” explains Frontier Pets founder, Diana Scott.
With a purpose to provide superior nutrition that doesn’t cost the earth, Frontier Pet food contains all natural, free-range, organic and human-quality ingredients.
“In our desire to produce cost effective meat, we’ve created concentration camps for animals. And the pet food manufacturing industry is supporting this by using the off-cuts of Factory Farmed animals in their pet food. It’s not acceptable and it’s not necessary.” explains Frontier Pets founder, Diana Scott.
With a purpose to provide superior nutrition that doesn’t cost the earth, Frontier Pet food contains all natural, free-range, organic and human-quality ingredients.
Processed using a cutting edge freeze-drying technology ensures that colours, flavours, and most importantly, the nutritional content remain intact. Frontier Pet food ensures your dog will be healthier, have more vitality and be more likely to maintain a healthy weight.
Frontier Pets works closely with organic and free range farmers throughout Australia to source quality cuts of beef, chicken, pork and eggs, to not only create one of the most nutrient rich pet foods on the market, but also to create partnerships and support ethical farming practices across Australia.
Together, with their growing customer base, Frontier Pets have contributed $1,314,200 towards ethical farming. Founder, Diana Scott explains, “We only purchase produce from free-range meat farmers and organic fruit & veg producers. The partnership works because farmers have a new income stream and we get the very best produce on the market. Australian free-range farmers really care about their animals and they know that we care, so they’re delighted to be working with us”.
Paving the way for the pet food industry, Frontier Pets isn’t focused on competitors, but instead focused on encouraging other pet brands to join them in the fight against ending Factory Farming, and prove that dogs really can really help change the world.
For more information on Frontier Pets please visit frontierpets.com.au
According to new research, demand for general and advanced veterinary services is forecast to grow steadily over the next five years, driven by the greater uptake of animal insurance and increased willingness on the part of the owner to extend their pets' lives.
Other contributing factors to industry growth include an increase in the pet population, pet humanisation within the growing global urban population and increased awareness of animal welfare needs due to social media.
However, growth in the market can also become stagnated by high costs associated with having a veterinary practice that needs to keep up with higher equipment and technology costs.
Adam Russell is the Founder and Managing Director of Veterinary Practice Partners, which provides business support to Dr Paws Veterinary Clinics located throughout suburban and regional New South Wales and Victoria. Adam started the business in 2012 with the first clinic opening in 2013, and over the past seven years has invested in and expanded the business to include eight clinics. The majority of the vet practices are small animal clinics.
“There are a lot of set up costs for a veterinary clinic. It can be anywhere from $500,000 to $600,000 to set up a clinic, and typically it takes two to three years to start becoming profitable. Costs include fit out of the location and equipment purchases, and then staff costs on top of that,” says Adam. “It can be difficult for vets to get clinics up and running due to the cost and there is a lot of risk involved. Typically for the first two years your cash flow is negative and you continue to drain on your resources.”
Adam was able to support the clinics’ growth by extending payment terms with suppliers through the UnLock payment gateway. As a result, cash outflows to suppliers were delayed, enabling Adam to purchase new equipment and further develop his clinics as needed, instead of having to wait for the perfect timing in his cash flow cycle.
During this period of growth, Dr Paws clinics had the opportunity to enter into business with a new supplier on longer payment terms or to continue with the existing supplier on reduced payment terns. The latter could have a significant impact on the businesses cash flow due to shorter payment terms. However, the longstanding and well working relationship with existing suppliers meant that the clinics wanted to continue business with these suppliers. As a result, Adam had to find a way to make their finances work better for business’ growth.
Adam’s interest in Fintech funding, innovative funding alternatives and equity solutions led him to Marketlend, a marketplace lending solution. Subsequently, Adam discovered a new Marketlend product, UnLock. UnLock is an Australian Buy Now Pay Later B2B solution, allowing businesses to pay upfront and get extended payment terms. The method assists business growth and fills in funding gaps where there are delays. An UnLock facility compliments and works in conjunction with any existing banking facilities a business may have, ensuring bank funding is not impacted or business slows down.
The UnLock payment gateway enabled Dr Paws to renegotiate with existing suppliers, including discounts and an early settlement discount. Their UnLock facility also allowed for extended payment terms, greater than the reduced terms imposed by the supplier. The revised payment terms resulted in the business having an extra six figure sum available to purchase stock and equipment.
“Before using UnLock I would’ve needed to change suppliers or have to invest more physical capital into the business directly,” says Adam. “Unlock presented us with an opportunity to meet and exceed the payment terms that wouldn’t have been possible on our own. We were able to have extra cash reserves for multiple clinics because of the difference in timing of those payments. Apart from maintaining our existing supplier network, we can now also work with suppliers that we previously couldn’t consider due to their terms of trade.”
With plans in the future to expand the business and open up more practices, Adam says, “UnLock is an attractive option for veterinarians. It makes good business sense to delay some significant invoices as much as you can by using products like UnLock to help from a cash flow point of view as you’re essentially making your accounts work for you better. This better protects your clinics’ cash flow, which is essential for a small business, and enables a business to maintain good supplier relationships. Cash flow can then be used for other purposes such as new equipment purchases and renovating the clinic, which is really powerful for a small business.”
About UnLock:
UnLock is a product of Marketlend, a Marketplace lending solution, offering working capital solutions for SMEs. UnLock is an Australian Buy Now Pay Later B2B solution. It is a new payment gateway enabling SMEs to boost their purchasing power with more working capital to grow. Suppliers can offer this payment gateway to enable buyers to pay upfront and have extended supplier terms of up to 30, 60 or 90 days.
RSPCA NSW on the road with new emergency response infrastructure
Launched in Braidwood on 1 June 2020, the mobile unit is checking in at some of the of the 129 bushfire affected communities RSPCA NSW provided assistance to, including Batemans Bay, Moruya, Cobargo and Eden, before making its way inland to Cooma and Goulburn.
The state-of-the-art mobile command centre, procured from the RSPCA NSW Bushfire Appeal, is part of the organisation's $2.6 million investment in emergency response infrastructure.
The organisation also acquired two animal transport trailers, to carry injured animals, and two community outreach vehicles, which will provide immediate animal welfare assistance and education across the state.
RSPCA NSW staff, including the Inspectorate, will be better equipped to immediately respond to calls for help with the acquisition of emergency communication equipment including satellite phones, disaster PPE such as breathing apparatuses, and other vital equipment.
“RSPCA NSW was established 147 years ago to help animals in need and now we are in a strong position to manage future disasters with the rollout of the RSPCA NSW Animal Welfare Response Unit,” RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman said.
“This mobile unit will provide more communities and their animals with immediate care on the ground when they need it the most.”
The commitment to invest in future emergency management comes in addition to the $1.3 million RSPCA NSW provided in immediate aid to bushfire-affected communities during the unprecedented bushfire crisis this year.
RSPCA NSW is also committing $2.4 million to a series of robust and long-term partnerships with wildlife organisations to protect and rehabilitate native animals across the state.
For more bushfire relief updates, visit the RSPCA NSW website.
Petbarn calling on Aussies to ‘re-fur’ a friend for pet care relief package
The Petbarn Foundation, together with the Animal Rescue Cooperative (ARC), are encouraging Aussies to nominate pet owners to receive an Act of Kindness pet care relief package.
The Act of Kindness initiative has been launched to support those experiencing hardship as a result of COVID-19 by providing a month’s worth of food to more than 3,000 pet parents to help them keep their pet dogs and cats healthy and happy.
The initiative is open to anyone that has been financially impacted by COVID-19 and the general public is invited to nominate a pet owner in their community, or themselves, to receive a pet care relief package by visiting: arcsupport.org.au/corona.
George Wahby, Chief Executive Officer at Petbarn and Greencross Vets, said, “With many pet parents experiencing extreme pressure and uncertainty at the moment, it has never been more important to support our animal loving community. Pets have an extremely positive impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing and are key companions to so many Australians. Act of Kindness is our way of supporting and protecting that special bond.”
With many Australians relying on their furry friends for companionship more than ever, the Act of Kindness initiative will provide a helping-hand to those who need it most.
Scott Charters, Chairperson of the Petbarn Foundation, said, “We’re calling on Aussies to nominate a friend, or a member of their community, who is having a hard time to receive a pet care relief package and make a big difference to their day. We’re also encouraging self-nomination - we want to help as many people as possible with this initiative!”
With everyone’s situation unique, the initiative also gives senders the option to send a pet care relief package anonymously. It is hoped that this option will provide reassurance to those that may otherwise be too afraid to ask for help.
Each pet care relief package will be hand-delivered and includes a bag of premium pet food and other essential items including fleas, ticks and worm treatment, litter, a toy and a treat.
Kelly Eaton, Project Manager at Animal Rescue Cooperative said: “Throughout COVID, we have been partnering with The Petbarn Foundation to help animal rescue centres receive much needed supplies, and now we are helping individuals who need a bit of extra support too. The idea of referring someone you know really helps drive that community spirit of pulling together and supporting one another through these uncertain times.”
The Petbarn Foundation, in coordination with Animal Rescue Cooperative, will distribute packages through a Nationwide Network which operates a triage system to ensure the care packages reach those who need it most.
About The Petbarn Foundation:
Founded in 2012, The Petbarn Foundation has raised over $13.2m to support animal welfare groups and rescue organisations throughout Australia. $700k worth of services, pet food and supplies has been pledged to help people and pets in the community that have been affected by COVID19.
All Greencross Companies support the Petbarn Foundation and its initiatives. For more information, visit: www.petbarn.com.au/foundation
MAY 20, 2020
First Pick-and-Mix Bar for Dogs Concept in NSW arrives at Coles Local Rose Bay
The first of Coles’ new look local neighbourhood supermarkets has arrived in Sydney as the doors officially open to Coles Local Rose Bay.
“By using technology to provide this essential service, we’re able to safeguard our clients, patients and team members by minimising face-to-face interaction, whilst providing always on support at the touch of a button which is useful not just in these current times but also when people may find it hard to get to a clinic” Mr Wahby said.
WebVet is the latest in a number of initiatives Greencross Vets and Petbarn have introduced to make it easier for pet parents to access essential pet care products and services in a secure and safe way. Including a Store to door - Same Day Delivery service, Zero Contact Click and Collect at Petbarn stores, and Minimal Contact Pet Care options at Greencross Vet clinics.
Dr Magdoline Awad, Chief Veterinary Officer for Greencross Vets, said, “Thanks to our national network of General Practice Veterinary clinics, Referral Hospitals and Animal Emergency Centres we are able to provide round-the-clock 24/7 advice to Australia’s pets and provide reassurance to pet owners when they need it most.”
“WebVet ensures that pet owners will be speaking with a qualified veterinarian in a matter of minutes and will be given trusted expert advice and support from the comfort of the home.”
The service is available 24/7 by visiting www.greencrossvets.com.au/webvet/
Video consultations are $39.95 for a standard consultation of 15 to 20 minutes. If pet parents still need to take their pet into a vet after the call, an appointment can be arranged over the phone with their local participating Greencross Vets clinic or at a partner Emergency and Speciality hospital. This online consultation fee is deducted against their vet clinic consultation if undertaken within 48 hours.
For more information visit www.greencrossvets.com.au and www.petbarn.com.au
MAY 5, 2020
Get your groove on and help give pets a second chance at life
On Friday May 8th join the live ‘Home Remedy’ music gig via Zoom and help raise funds for the Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) ‘Safe House for Pets’ Program.
Home Remedy is the brainchild of Manly based creatives, ‘Morgan Burrett’ and ‘Duan & Only’. The two housemates came up with the concept of bringing people together by live video streaming ’live music’ to Facebook, with the option for their followers to be a part of a virtual audience via Zoom.
Musician Duan Kaka said, “With the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on every single one of us, we wanted to bring joy to those who are feeling isolated or anxious during this challenging time through our weekly gig. However, we also wanted to create a platform where we could do something more.
“When we heard about the great work of SCAR and their Safe House for Pets Program in particular, we decided to use this Friday’s performance to help raise funds and awareness about the issue of domestic violence and the impact that is having on both people and pets during these tough times.”
According to SCAR CEO, Marisa Debattista, “With the current social distancing measures in place, this live interaction ultimately gives viewers some sense of social normality during this difficult and abnormal time, while bringing an often unspoken issue into the light and providing a voice and support for those suffering in silence.
With an Australian study showing over 50 per cent of women suffering family violence reported their violent partner had hurt or killed one of their pets** and that over one third of these pet owners had delayed leaving their violent relationship because of concerns for their pet’s welfare, this is something which needs to be addressed as a key issue in society today.
The urgency of this is further highlighted by the reported 75% increase in Google searches about domestic violence in NSW alone since the first recorded COVID-19 cases there and the greater demand for immediate temporary crisis accommodation.*”
As Duan performs songs that would normally be heard at one of his weekly gigs, Morgan orchestrates a multi camera live stream and a coinciding Zoom meeting, that he integrates together to allow viewers to interact freely throughout the segment.
In this Friday’s performance, live from 6pm – 7:15pm, they will be joined online by SCAR CEO Marisa Debattista and Ambassador/Host Channel 10’s Pooches at Play, Lara Shannon, along with other media personalities including Richard Stubbs, Christie Whelan-Browne, Mel Grieg, Ryan Anderson AKA Aussie Dog Guy and others.
People can Zoom in using this direct link from 6pm via Zoom meeting ID: 446 373 6339 to be part of the live video audience and listen in via Facebook Page www.facebook.com/duan.and.only for the best sound experience.
About the Safe House for Pets Program
The Safe House for Pets Program provide temporary care for at risk animals whose owners are facing enormous challenges as victims/survivors of domestic and family violence.
Most human shelters do not provide care for client’s pets and a large number of pet owners refuse to leave without their animals for fear of their animal’s life, so this program assists them by providing temporary shelter for their companion animals and offers practical solutions for pet owners leaving situations of domestic violence.
Donations can be made to the Second Chance Animal Rescue Safe House for Pets fundraising page via their website or directly here.
Sources:
* https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/domestic-violence-isolation-and-covid-19
** https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/making-the-link-between-family-violence-and-animal-abuse
APRIL 23, 2020
Rescue Awards back to encourage and inspire rescue when needed most
Open for entries 1 May 2020!
The Companion Animal Rescue Awards returns for its third year to celebrate and inspire rescue groups and animal shelters to continue their efforts in saving companion animals, particularly during these challenging times. This year, Jetpets is again the Platinum Rescue Hero and Naming Partner.
The Rescue Awards is a national for purpose program managed by Pets4Life, an independent education resource for cat and dog guardians and those thinking of getting a pet. The mission of the Rescue Awards is to celebrate and recognise achievements in the rescue, rehabilitation and re-homing of companion animals in Australia. It is the platform to showcase excellence and innovation, thereby raising the standards of rescue groups and animals shelters nation-wide.
“The Rescue Awards is more important than ever to put the spotlight on the sector. While rescue organisations are experiencing some of the highest ever adoption rates - PetRescue website has seen more than 12,000 pets adopted in just six weeks – these organisations are also struggling from the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic following the bushfires," said Rescue Awards founder and pet adoption advocate Cathy Beer.
Every year, approximately 190,000 pets remain unclaimed in Australia’s pounds and shelters, and thousands of volunteers support over 1,000 rescue groups and animal shelters across Australia¹. The Rescue Awards recognises the dedication of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to help rescue pets find homes.
“Our past winners and finalists say the recognition by the Rescue Awards gives their staff and volunteers the motivation to ‘keep calm and carry on’ rehoming surrendered and abandoned pets every day in a challenging environment,” said Cathy.
In 2020, the Rescue Awards is building on the success of 2019 when over 1,000 entries were received. Cathy reveals exciting changes to this year’s program in her video message, including a new Ambassador plus new Judges, Categories and Supporters. She also thanks animal lovers across the country for helping to make a difference by adopting or fostering a pet.
Cathy is very excited to announce two new Categories.
She said, “The ‘Refuel Digital Technology Award’ is for rehoming organisations. The use of digital technology has enabled rescue groups and shelters to continue their great work despite natural disasters and the current pandemic lockdown. The Drontal® Foster Carer Story is for thousands of volunteer foster carers around the country looking after companion animals until they find a new home.”
Jetpets Managing Director Sandy Matheson said, “For the third consecutive year, Jetpets is proud to be the Platinum Rescue Hero and Naming Partner. In wanting to support and recognise the remarkable work being done by so many individuals and rescue groups throughout Australia, we are thrilled to come on board again as the Platinum Partner for the Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards. I’m looking forward to being involved and ultimately congratulating the winners of the various award categories.”
Ambassador
The Rescue Awards 2020 is thrilled to announce a new Ambassador, Lara Shannon, Certified Dog Trainer, Animal Welfare Advocate and Host of Channel 10’s Pooches at Play. Lara shares her enthusiasm for the Rescue Awards in her video message.
Rescue Award Categories
The Rescue Awards 2020 has 10 Categories with one winner for each category.
Award categories 1 – 8 are for industry. Category 9, the 'Advocate® People’s Rescue Story’ is for Aussie pet guardians who have adopted a pet and category 10 is the ‘Drontal® Foster Carer Story’ for foster carers of companion animals waiting for their forever home.
“Pet adoption changes lives for the better,” said Cathy. “This year we’re looking for 1,000 heart-warming stories from pet adopters and 500 inspiring stories from foster carers about how their adopted/foster pet has transformed and changed their human’s life.”
Judges
The Rescue Awards is thrilled to announce 20 judges who bring expertise in companion animal welfare, rescue and sheltering, veterinarians, compassion fatigue, digital technology and animal behaviour.
1. Outstanding Rescue Group
2. Outstanding New Rescue Group
3. Outstanding Animal Shelter
4. Outstanding Council Animal Shelter
5. Innovation in Rescue
6. Community Education and Outreach Program
7. Volunteer of the Year
8. Refuel Digital Technology Award (new)
9. Advocate® People’s Rescue Story
10. Drontal® Foster Carer Story (new)
Open for Entries
Enter online from 1 May to close midnight on 19 July 2020.
To enter, visit www.rescueawards.com.au and follow the links.
Watch a short video to find out what our judges and past winners have to say about the Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards.
For updates on the Rescue Awards program, please visit www.rescueawards.com.au, sign up to the e-newsletter or follow the Rescue Awards on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. #jetpetsrescueawards2020 - Photo Credit (top): Jo Lyons Photography.
MEDIA RELEASE, 23rd April 2020
APRIL 12, 2020
Parvo warning for Northern NSW as deadly outbreaks hit
A national charity is calling on Northern NSW residents to urgently vaccinate their puppies and dogs, as a Parvovirus (Parvo) outbreak has swept through the region in the past month – leaving around 60 puppies and dogs dead.
Paws For A Purpose (PFAP) CEO and veterinarian, Dr Mark Kelman, said that local vets reported around 145 puppies and dogs struck down by the deadly disease across Tamworth, Manilla, Barraba, Bingara, Lighting Ridge and Coonamble.
NorthWest Vets’ Coonamble and Lightening Ridge clinics alone reported 29 deaths in the past four weeks and have received multiple daily calls from owners with sick and dying puppies. Many cases have died at home before being able to receive vet care.
Greencross Vets South Tamworth has seen 30 cases resulting in 21 deaths, while Piper Street Vet in Tamworth has witnessed 25 cases including 10 deaths. There has also been 30 cases at Manilla Vets and 10 at Bingara Vets.
Dr Kelman said these latest deaths were completely preventable and more deaths will happen during Autumn and Winter if residents do not act quickly.
The charity identified the outbreak with its new Parvo surveillance system, which collects case reports from vets and will soon be in operation across the country.
“Even though we are just piloting our Parvo disease-surveillance-and-alerting program, it is already detecting major outbreaks of this horrific disease, including this one and another outbreak across Central Queensland” said Dr Kelman.
“The recent rain across both regions seems to have brought on these outbreaks. Scientific studies have shown an association between recent rain and Parvo outbreaks, however, we are not exactly sure why – one theory is that the rain might physically move the virus into contact with domestic dogs.
APRIL 3, 2020
The Petbarn Foundation partners with Animal Rescue Cooperative to pledge 1.7m meals to support animal rescue groups in need
Rescue groups in need of urgent support as surrender of pets expected to rise
Greencross, which operates Petbarn and a network of 16 general practice veterinary clinics, Animal Referral Hospitals and Animal Emergency Centres across Australia, is helping people and their pets at this time of need through its Petbarn Foundation.
Some animal rescue centres are seeing an increase in surrendered pets, with financial stress cited as a contributing factor to animal relinquishment[1].
Lort Smith is applauding new laws on pets and renting. As of 2 March 2020, Victorian tenants wanting to incorporate a pet into their lifestyle can request their landlord’s consent via the Consumer Affairs Victoria pet request form here. [1]
Regardless of when a lease has commenced, landlords can now not unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request to allow a pet. Lort Smith CEO, Fiona Webster welcomed the news as common sense.
“Melbourne is home to more than a million dogs and cats; and we know that animals are an important part of many families.” There are over 29 million pets in Australia [2] and with Melbourne being home to more than a million dogs and cats alone, there’s little doubt animals are part of the fabric of Victoria.
Located in North Melbourne, Lort Smith, Australia’s largest not-for-profit animal hospital, re-homes around 850 animals every year.
“Sadly, Lort Smith around a third of animals are surrendered due to accommodation issues. While Lort Smith will never euthanise an animal capable of being rehomed, others may not receive another chance.” added Ms Webster.
At Lort Smith, staff regularly see local residents visit the adoption hub to spend time with the animals. They have found some even become volunteers, because they can’t have pets at home and miss the valuable emotional connection of interacting with a cat or dog.
“The human-animal bond is very real and has huge impacts on the health and emotional wellbeing of people in the community,” said Ms Webster.
Despite misplaced claims, there’s no reason to consider pet owners as bad or risky tenants – in fact, the opposite is probably true. “A well trained and properly cared for pet, with an attentive owner, will cause no more wear and tear to a residential property than a human,” stated Ms Webster.
The new laws do not apply to pets already present before 2 March 2020. Prior to these changes there were no laws directly covering pets in rented homes.
Lort Smith is the largest not-for-profit animal hospital in Australia, delivering essential and life-saving services to sick, injured and vulnerable animals. Each year our team of more than 60 vets and 110 nurses provide quality care for around 25,000 animals. Lort Smith re-homes approximately 850 animals each year and operates a number of community outreach programs which have a significant social impact on the community. Lort Smith receives no ongoing government funding.
FEBRUARY 28, 2020
Western Sydney Dog Park Sets Tails Wagging
The new state-of-the-art Shale Hills Dog Park at Western Sydney Parklands has opened to the community this week.
Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the new $3.7 million park will be a major drawcard for dog-lovers.
“Shale Hills Dog Park is an exciting addition to the Southern end of Western Sydney Parklands and will provide residents from West Hoxton and surrounding communities with new quality green open space – right on the doorstep of the future Aerotropolis city,” Mr Stokes said.
Executive Director of Western Sydney Parklands Trust Suellen Fitzgerald said it’s incredibly satisfying to see the Trust deliver a community facility of this calibre, placing people and their pets at the heart of its design to meet the needs of the residents and visitors.
“The new dog park provides residents with a green recreational entry to the Parklands and natural firebreak, while showcasing the beautiful aesthetic of the adjacent bushland corridor and Shale Hills Walking Loop,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
“This is the first of many transformational projects the Trust will deliver in the Parklands over the next decade.”
The new park offers a range of experiences for dogs including:
For more information, please visit www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au
RSPCA South Australia launches RSPCA AWARE education program
In an Australian-first, RSPCA South Australia launched a visionary new education program – and offering it completely free to all students and teachers in their state.
This is one of the most important steps RSPCA South Australia has taken to reduce animal abuse in their 144-year history.
How will it help?
Well, the RSPCA AWARE program (Animal Wellbeing: Awareness, Responsibility and Education) places animal welfare learning front and centre in our schools.
Through their free series of resources for teachers, students and parents, young people will develop skills, knowledge and a strong understanding of animal care while engaging in issues that surround animal welfare. It’s prevention through education.
The best part? RSPCA AWARE fully integrates with the Australian Curriculum. This means students can learn vital English or Maths lessons, for example, using the concepts of animal wellbeing to provide a real life context – so they’re more likely to get interested and stay interested in key subjects.
RSPCA AWARE is adapted from a similar program run in New Zealand, which is already loved by both teachers and students. Last year, this version was trialled in 18 different schools in South Australia. It was a resounding success! You might like to watch this short video to hear from some of the kids and teachers.
Paving the way for the pet food industry, Frontier Pets isn’t focused on competitors, but instead focused on encouraging other pet brands to join them in the fight against ending Factory Farming, and prove that dogs really can really help change the world.
For more information on Frontier Pets please visit frontierpets.com.au
JUNE 9, 2020
No pause for Dr Paws - A vet practice that continues to grow
According to new research, demand for general and advanced veterinary services is forecast to grow steadily over the next five years, driven by the greater uptake of animal insurance and increased willingness on the part of the owner to extend their pets' lives.
Other contributing factors to industry growth include an increase in the pet population, pet humanisation within the growing global urban population and increased awareness of animal welfare needs due to social media.
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| Oscar, 7-week old Border Collie first puppy health check |
Adam Russell is the Founder and Managing Director of Veterinary Practice Partners, which provides business support to Dr Paws Veterinary Clinics located throughout suburban and regional New South Wales and Victoria. Adam started the business in 2012 with the first clinic opening in 2013, and over the past seven years has invested in and expanded the business to include eight clinics. The majority of the vet practices are small animal clinics.
“There are a lot of set up costs for a veterinary clinic. It can be anywhere from $500,000 to $600,000 to set up a clinic, and typically it takes two to three years to start becoming profitable. Costs include fit out of the location and equipment purchases, and then staff costs on top of that,” says Adam. “It can be difficult for vets to get clinics up and running due to the cost and there is a lot of risk involved. Typically for the first two years your cash flow is negative and you continue to drain on your resources.”
Adam was able to support the clinics’ growth by extending payment terms with suppliers through the UnLock payment gateway. As a result, cash outflows to suppliers were delayed, enabling Adam to purchase new equipment and further develop his clinics as needed, instead of having to wait for the perfect timing in his cash flow cycle.
During this period of growth, Dr Paws clinics had the opportunity to enter into business with a new supplier on longer payment terms or to continue with the existing supplier on reduced payment terns. The latter could have a significant impact on the businesses cash flow due to shorter payment terms. However, the longstanding and well working relationship with existing suppliers meant that the clinics wanted to continue business with these suppliers. As a result, Adam had to find a way to make their finances work better for business’ growth.
Adam’s interest in Fintech funding, innovative funding alternatives and equity solutions led him to Marketlend, a marketplace lending solution. Subsequently, Adam discovered a new Marketlend product, UnLock. UnLock is an Australian Buy Now Pay Later B2B solution, allowing businesses to pay upfront and get extended payment terms. The method assists business growth and fills in funding gaps where there are delays. An UnLock facility compliments and works in conjunction with any existing banking facilities a business may have, ensuring bank funding is not impacted or business slows down.
The UnLock payment gateway enabled Dr Paws to renegotiate with existing suppliers, including discounts and an early settlement discount. Their UnLock facility also allowed for extended payment terms, greater than the reduced terms imposed by the supplier. The revised payment terms resulted in the business having an extra six figure sum available to purchase stock and equipment.
“Before using UnLock I would’ve needed to change suppliers or have to invest more physical capital into the business directly,” says Adam. “Unlock presented us with an opportunity to meet and exceed the payment terms that wouldn’t have been possible on our own. We were able to have extra cash reserves for multiple clinics because of the difference in timing of those payments. Apart from maintaining our existing supplier network, we can now also work with suppliers that we previously couldn’t consider due to their terms of trade.”
With plans in the future to expand the business and open up more practices, Adam says, “UnLock is an attractive option for veterinarians. It makes good business sense to delay some significant invoices as much as you can by using products like UnLock to help from a cash flow point of view as you’re essentially making your accounts work for you better. This better protects your clinics’ cash flow, which is essential for a small business, and enables a business to maintain good supplier relationships. Cash flow can then be used for other purposes such as new equipment purchases and renovating the clinic, which is really powerful for a small business.”
About UnLock:
UnLock is a product of Marketlend, a Marketplace lending solution, offering working capital solutions for SMEs. UnLock is an Australian Buy Now Pay Later B2B solution. It is a new payment gateway enabling SMEs to boost their purchasing power with more working capital to grow. Suppliers can offer this payment gateway to enable buyers to pay upfront and have extended supplier terms of up to 30, 60 or 90 days.
JUNE 2, 2020
RSPCA NSW on the road with new emergency response infrastructure
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| Red the dog received vital surgery as part of the organisation's bushfire assistance effort. |
RSPCA NSW's new Animal Welfare Response Unit is making its way down the NSW south coast this week to revisit communities affected by the recent bushfire crisis.
Launched in Braidwood on 1 June 2020, the mobile unit is checking in at some of the of the 129 bushfire affected communities RSPCA NSW provided assistance to, including Batemans Bay, Moruya, Cobargo and Eden, before making its way inland to Cooma and Goulburn.
The state-of-the-art mobile command centre, procured from the RSPCA NSW Bushfire Appeal, is part of the organisation's $2.6 million investment in emergency response infrastructure.
The organisation also acquired two animal transport trailers, to carry injured animals, and two community outreach vehicles, which will provide immediate animal welfare assistance and education across the state.
RSPCA NSW staff, including the Inspectorate, will be better equipped to immediately respond to calls for help with the acquisition of emergency communication equipment including satellite phones, disaster PPE such as breathing apparatuses, and other vital equipment.
“RSPCA NSW was established 147 years ago to help animals in need and now we are in a strong position to manage future disasters with the rollout of the RSPCA NSW Animal Welfare Response Unit,” RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman said.
“This mobile unit will provide more communities and their animals with immediate care on the ground when they need it the most.”
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| The new RSPCA NSW Animal Welfare Response Unit |
RSPCA NSW is also committing $2.4 million to a series of robust and long-term partnerships with wildlife organisations to protect and rehabilitate native animals across the state.
For more bushfire relief updates, visit the RSPCA NSW website.
JUNE 2, 2020
The Act of Kindness initiative has been launched to support those experiencing hardship as a result of COVID-19 by providing a month’s worth of food to more than 3,000 pet parents to help them keep their pet dogs and cats healthy and happy.
The initiative is open to anyone that has been financially impacted by COVID-19 and the general public is invited to nominate a pet owner in their community, or themselves, to receive a pet care relief package by visiting: arcsupport.org.au/corona.
George Wahby, Chief Executive Officer at Petbarn and Greencross Vets, said, “With many pet parents experiencing extreme pressure and uncertainty at the moment, it has never been more important to support our animal loving community. Pets have an extremely positive impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing and are key companions to so many Australians. Act of Kindness is our way of supporting and protecting that special bond.”
With many Australians relying on their furry friends for companionship more than ever, the Act of Kindness initiative will provide a helping-hand to those who need it most.
Scott Charters, Chairperson of the Petbarn Foundation, said, “We’re calling on Aussies to nominate a friend, or a member of their community, who is having a hard time to receive a pet care relief package and make a big difference to their day. We’re also encouraging self-nomination - we want to help as many people as possible with this initiative!”
With everyone’s situation unique, the initiative also gives senders the option to send a pet care relief package anonymously. It is hoped that this option will provide reassurance to those that may otherwise be too afraid to ask for help.
Kelly Eaton, Project Manager at Animal Rescue Cooperative said: “Throughout COVID, we have been partnering with The Petbarn Foundation to help animal rescue centres receive much needed supplies, and now we are helping individuals who need a bit of extra support too. The idea of referring someone you know really helps drive that community spirit of pulling together and supporting one another through these uncertain times.”
The Petbarn Foundation, in coordination with Animal Rescue Cooperative, will distribute packages through a Nationwide Network which operates a triage system to ensure the care packages reach those who need it most.
About The Petbarn Foundation:
Founded in 2012, The Petbarn Foundation has raised over $13.2m to support animal welfare groups and rescue organisations throughout Australia. $700k worth of services, pet food and supplies has been pledged to help people and pets in the community that have been affected by COVID19.
All Greencross Companies support the Petbarn Foundation and its initiatives. For more information, visit: www.petbarn.com.au/foundation
First Pick-and-Mix Bar for Dogs Concept in NSW arrives at Coles Local Rose Bay
The store marks a new era for supermarket shopping in Sydney, with never-before-seen features including a pick-and-mix treats bar just for dogs, a macaron, mini gelato and Japanese mochi ice cream parlour, a self-serve coffee and orange juice station, and one of the largest plant-based ranges of any Coles supermarket in New South Wales.
The store’s pick-and-mix selection of tasty doggy treats will be the first in New South Wales, so customers can spoil their pampered pooches with a bespoke blend of canine snacks.
Voted as one of the top 30 food retail stores worldwide to visit in 2020 [1], Coles Local supermarkets offer the community a tailored in-store experience, partnering with local butchers, bakers and cafes to offer a bespoke range of high-quality foods designed to meet the needs of local residents.
Coles conducted wide research into the Rose Bay community, finding they are more than twice as likely to choose premium, high quality products than the average Australian shopper, and overwhelmingly value fresh and healthy solutions at mealtimes. They are also typically aged between 25 – 44 and don’t have kids.
“This is our first Coles Local supermarket to open in Sydney. The store has been carefully designed with cutting edge sustainability features and local partnerships with neighbourhood bakers, butchers and producers.”
Coles Local Rose Bay will champion sustainability, with team member uniforms made from 65 per cent recycled bottles, trolleys made partly from recycled plastic and free reclaimed customer carry boxes as an alternative to bags. A zero edible food waste policy also means that any unsold food that cannot be donated to food rescue organisation SecondBite will be diverted to green energy generation.
[1] IGD Retail Analysis, 2019
MAY 19, 2020
“We’ve seen a huge number of pets being rescued and fostered in the light of COVID-19,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “This is just a wonderful example of how Australians genuinely care about the welfare of pets, but now is also the time to give thanks; to the countless people who care for our abandoned animals 24/7.”
The highly successful JetPets Companion Animal Rescue Awards is currently underway, for its third year, to help celebrate rescue groups and animal shelters who continue their efforts in saving companion animals.
“This is so particularly important during these challenging times, like COVID-19,” Crighton says. “We encourage all Australians, to get voting and help recognise those in the community who are outstanding in this field.”
The store’s pick-and-mix selection of tasty doggy treats will be the first in New South Wales, so customers can spoil their pampered pooches with a bespoke blend of canine snacks.
Voted as one of the top 30 food retail stores worldwide to visit in 2020 [1], Coles Local supermarkets offer the community a tailored in-store experience, partnering with local butchers, bakers and cafes to offer a bespoke range of high-quality foods designed to meet the needs of local residents.
Coles conducted wide research into the Rose Bay community, finding they are more than twice as likely to choose premium, high quality products than the average Australian shopper, and overwhelmingly value fresh and healthy solutions at mealtimes. They are also typically aged between 25 – 44 and don’t have kids.
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| Image Credit (supplied): Coles / Getty |
“This is our first Coles Local supermarket to open in Sydney. The store has been carefully designed with cutting edge sustainability features and local partnerships with neighbourhood bakers, butchers and producers.”
Coles Local Rose Bay will champion sustainability, with team member uniforms made from 65 per cent recycled bottles, trolleys made partly from recycled plastic and free reclaimed customer carry boxes as an alternative to bags. A zero edible food waste policy also means that any unsold food that cannot be donated to food rescue organisation SecondBite will be diverted to green energy generation.
[1] IGD Retail Analysis, 2019
Giving thanks to the animal shelters and rescue centres across Australia during National Volunteer Week 2020
The highly successful JetPets Companion Animal Rescue Awards is currently underway, for its third year, to help celebrate rescue groups and animal shelters who continue their efforts in saving companion animals.
“This is so particularly important during these challenging times, like COVID-19,” Crighton says. “We encourage all Australians, to get voting and help recognise those in the community who are outstanding in this field.”
Entries are open until midnight July 19, 2020.
To enter, visit www.rescueawards.com.au
Every year, approximately 190,000 pets remain unclaimed in Australia’s pounds and shelters, and thousands of volunteers support over 1,000 rescue groups and animal shelters across Australia.
The Rescue Awards 2020 has 10 Categories with one winner for each category. Award categories one through to eight are for industry.
Category 9 is the Advocate® People’s Rescue Story.
Category 10 is the Drontal® Foster Carer Story.
Pet Insurance Australia is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the awards for the third consecutive year.
Cathy Beer, pet rescue advocate and founder of Pets4Life wanted to ensure that those excelling in all areas of rescue are recognised and celebrated for the amazing work they do. Because of this, the Companion Animal Rescue Awards was born back in 2018, with raving success.
To enter, visit www.rescueawards.com.au
Every year, approximately 190,000 pets remain unclaimed in Australia’s pounds and shelters, and thousands of volunteers support over 1,000 rescue groups and animal shelters across Australia.
The Rescue Awards 2020 has 10 Categories with one winner for each category. Award categories one through to eight are for industry.
Category 9 is the Advocate® People’s Rescue Story.
Category 10 is the Drontal® Foster Carer Story.
Pet Insurance Australia is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the awards for the third consecutive year.
Cathy Beer, pet rescue advocate and founder of Pets4Life wanted to ensure that those excelling in all areas of rescue are recognised and celebrated for the amazing work they do. Because of this, the Companion Animal Rescue Awards was born back in 2018, with raving success.
“The Rescue Awards is more important than ever to put the spotlight on the sector,” Cathy Beer, Rescue Awards founder and pet adoption advocate, says.
While it is wonderful that rescue organisations are experiencing incredibly high adoption and fostering rates, these organisations are struggling from the huge impact of COVID-19 following in the wake of the devastating bushfires.
“With so many Australians experiencing the joy that adoption and fostering can bring, now is the time to give back, and give thanks to those who work tirelessly to care and love these animals during all times of the year.”
MAY 6, 2020
WebVet provides pet parents an affordable, convenient 24/7 vet advice service from the comfort of their home.
Greencross Vets is rolling out a nationwide service, WebVet, which will offer access to Australia’s biggest network of 1000 veterinary professionals 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Pet parents who can’t get to a veterinary clinic or need some advice can now connect to a dedicated and qualified team of veterinarians and nurses who will assess their pet via video call and provide advice and support.
WebVet is the latest initiative introduced by Greencross to provide pet parents with peace of mind at a time when many are social distancing and minimising human interaction.
George Wahby, Chief Executive Officer at Petbarn and Greencross Vets, said this new initiative will be a much-needed support network for pet parents across Australia.
“At a time that feels uncertain for so many, we want to ensure that pet parents everywhere feel supported. With the launch of WebVet, one of our highly experienced vets is now just a video call away for when pet parents need advice or have any concerns about their pet’s health.
While it is wonderful that rescue organisations are experiencing incredibly high adoption and fostering rates, these organisations are struggling from the huge impact of COVID-19 following in the wake of the devastating bushfires.
“With so many Australians experiencing the joy that adoption and fostering can bring, now is the time to give back, and give thanks to those who work tirelessly to care and love these animals during all times of the year.”
MAY 6, 2020
Greencross Vets launches at-home video call service, ‘WebVet’
WebVet provides pet parents an affordable, convenient 24/7 vet advice service from the comfort of their home.
Greencross Vets is rolling out a nationwide service, WebVet, which will offer access to Australia’s biggest network of 1000 veterinary professionals 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Pet parents who can’t get to a veterinary clinic or need some advice can now connect to a dedicated and qualified team of veterinarians and nurses who will assess their pet via video call and provide advice and support.
WebVet is the latest initiative introduced by Greencross to provide pet parents with peace of mind at a time when many are social distancing and minimising human interaction.
George Wahby, Chief Executive Officer at Petbarn and Greencross Vets, said this new initiative will be a much-needed support network for pet parents across Australia.
“At a time that feels uncertain for so many, we want to ensure that pet parents everywhere feel supported. With the launch of WebVet, one of our highly experienced vets is now just a video call away for when pet parents need advice or have any concerns about their pet’s health.
WebVet is the latest in a number of initiatives Greencross Vets and Petbarn have introduced to make it easier for pet parents to access essential pet care products and services in a secure and safe way. Including a Store to door - Same Day Delivery service, Zero Contact Click and Collect at Petbarn stores, and Minimal Contact Pet Care options at Greencross Vet clinics.
Dr Magdoline Awad, Chief Veterinary Officer for Greencross Vets, said, “Thanks to our national network of General Practice Veterinary clinics, Referral Hospitals and Animal Emergency Centres we are able to provide round-the-clock 24/7 advice to Australia’s pets and provide reassurance to pet owners when they need it most.”
“WebVet ensures that pet owners will be speaking with a qualified veterinarian in a matter of minutes and will be given trusted expert advice and support from the comfort of the home.”
The service is available 24/7 by visiting www.greencrossvets.com.au/webvet/
Video consultations are $39.95 for a standard consultation of 15 to 20 minutes. If pet parents still need to take their pet into a vet after the call, an appointment can be arranged over the phone with their local participating Greencross Vets clinic or at a partner Emergency and Speciality hospital. This online consultation fee is deducted against their vet clinic consultation if undertaken within 48 hours.
For more information visit www.greencrossvets.com.au and www.petbarn.com.au
MAY 5, 2020
Get your groove on and help give pets a second chance at life
Home Remedy is the brainchild of Manly based creatives, ‘Morgan Burrett’ and ‘Duan & Only’. The two housemates came up with the concept of bringing people together by live video streaming ’live music’ to Facebook, with the option for their followers to be a part of a virtual audience via Zoom.
Musician Duan Kaka said, “With the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on every single one of us, we wanted to bring joy to those who are feeling isolated or anxious during this challenging time through our weekly gig. However, we also wanted to create a platform where we could do something more.
“When we heard about the great work of SCAR and their Safe House for Pets Program in particular, we decided to use this Friday’s performance to help raise funds and awareness about the issue of domestic violence and the impact that is having on both people and pets during these tough times.”
According to SCAR CEO, Marisa Debattista, “With the current social distancing measures in place, this live interaction ultimately gives viewers some sense of social normality during this difficult and abnormal time, while bringing an often unspoken issue into the light and providing a voice and support for those suffering in silence.
With an Australian study showing over 50 per cent of women suffering family violence reported their violent partner had hurt or killed one of their pets** and that over one third of these pet owners had delayed leaving their violent relationship because of concerns for their pet’s welfare, this is something which needs to be addressed as a key issue in society today.
The urgency of this is further highlighted by the reported 75% increase in Google searches about domestic violence in NSW alone since the first recorded COVID-19 cases there and the greater demand for immediate temporary crisis accommodation.*”
As Duan performs songs that would normally be heard at one of his weekly gigs, Morgan orchestrates a multi camera live stream and a coinciding Zoom meeting, that he integrates together to allow viewers to interact freely throughout the segment.
In this Friday’s performance, live from 6pm – 7:15pm, they will be joined online by SCAR CEO Marisa Debattista and Ambassador/Host Channel 10’s Pooches at Play, Lara Shannon, along with other media personalities including Richard Stubbs, Christie Whelan-Browne, Mel Grieg, Ryan Anderson AKA Aussie Dog Guy and others.
People can Zoom in using this direct link from 6pm via Zoom meeting ID: 446 373 6339 to be part of the live video audience and listen in via Facebook Page www.facebook.com/duan.and.only for the best sound experience.
About the Safe House for Pets Program
The Safe House for Pets Program provide temporary care for at risk animals whose owners are facing enormous challenges as victims/survivors of domestic and family violence.
Most human shelters do not provide care for client’s pets and a large number of pet owners refuse to leave without their animals for fear of their animal’s life, so this program assists them by providing temporary shelter for their companion animals and offers practical solutions for pet owners leaving situations of domestic violence.
Donations can be made to the Second Chance Animal Rescue Safe House for Pets fundraising page via their website or directly here.
Sources:
* https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/domestic-violence-isolation-and-covid-19
** https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/making-the-link-between-family-violence-and-animal-abuse
APRIL 23, 2020
Rescue Awards back to encourage and inspire rescue when needed most
The Companion Animal Rescue Awards returns for its third year to celebrate and inspire rescue groups and animal shelters to continue their efforts in saving companion animals, particularly during these challenging times. This year, Jetpets is again the Platinum Rescue Hero and Naming Partner.
The Rescue Awards is a national for purpose program managed by Pets4Life, an independent education resource for cat and dog guardians and those thinking of getting a pet. The mission of the Rescue Awards is to celebrate and recognise achievements in the rescue, rehabilitation and re-homing of companion animals in Australia. It is the platform to showcase excellence and innovation, thereby raising the standards of rescue groups and animals shelters nation-wide.
“The Rescue Awards is more important than ever to put the spotlight on the sector. While rescue organisations are experiencing some of the highest ever adoption rates - PetRescue website has seen more than 12,000 pets adopted in just six weeks – these organisations are also struggling from the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic following the bushfires," said Rescue Awards founder and pet adoption advocate Cathy Beer.
“Our past winners and finalists say the recognition by the Rescue Awards gives their staff and volunteers the motivation to ‘keep calm and carry on’ rehoming surrendered and abandoned pets every day in a challenging environment,” said Cathy.
In 2020, the Rescue Awards is building on the success of 2019 when over 1,000 entries were received. Cathy reveals exciting changes to this year’s program in her video message, including a new Ambassador plus new Judges, Categories and Supporters. She also thanks animal lovers across the country for helping to make a difference by adopting or fostering a pet.
Cathy is very excited to announce two new Categories.
She said, “The ‘Refuel Digital Technology Award’ is for rehoming organisations. The use of digital technology has enabled rescue groups and shelters to continue their great work despite natural disasters and the current pandemic lockdown. The Drontal® Foster Carer Story is for thousands of volunteer foster carers around the country looking after companion animals until they find a new home.”
Jetpets Managing Director Sandy Matheson said, “For the third consecutive year, Jetpets is proud to be the Platinum Rescue Hero and Naming Partner. In wanting to support and recognise the remarkable work being done by so many individuals and rescue groups throughout Australia, we are thrilled to come on board again as the Platinum Partner for the Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards. I’m looking forward to being involved and ultimately congratulating the winners of the various award categories.”
Ambassador
The Rescue Awards 2020 is thrilled to announce a new Ambassador, Lara Shannon, Certified Dog Trainer, Animal Welfare Advocate and Host of Channel 10’s Pooches at Play. Lara shares her enthusiasm for the Rescue Awards in her video message.
Rescue Award Categories
The Rescue Awards 2020 has 10 Categories with one winner for each category.
Award categories 1 – 8 are for industry. Category 9, the 'Advocate® People’s Rescue Story’ is for Aussie pet guardians who have adopted a pet and category 10 is the ‘Drontal® Foster Carer Story’ for foster carers of companion animals waiting for their forever home.
“Pet adoption changes lives for the better,” said Cathy. “This year we’re looking for 1,000 heart-warming stories from pet adopters and 500 inspiring stories from foster carers about how their adopted/foster pet has transformed and changed their human’s life.”
Judges
The Rescue Awards is thrilled to announce 20 judges who bring expertise in companion animal welfare, rescue and sheltering, veterinarians, compassion fatigue, digital technology and animal behaviour.
The Rescue Awards wishes to thank the judges for donating their time and expertise.
1. Tim Vasudeva, Director of Corporate Affairs at Animals Australia
2. Dr Alison Shen, Veterinarian and Co-star in the TV series Bondi Vet Coast to Coast*
3. Nell Thompson, Coordinator for Getting 2 Zero
4. Emeritus Professor Jacquie Rand, Executive Director & Chief Scientist, Australian Pet Welfare Foundation*
5. Vickie Davy, Co-Founder & joint CEO of PetRescue
6. Dr Anthony Bennett, Veterinarian, Equine Dentist & Royal Easter Show panelist
7. Dr Jo Righetti, PhD Animal Behaviourist, Pet Problems Solved*
8. Dr Vanessa Rolf, Compassion Fatigue Therapist*
9. Brooke Rankmore, CEO at Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities*
10. Sandy Matheson, Founder & Managing Director of Jetpets
11. Dr Anne Fawcett, Animal Welfare Veterinarian
12. Dr Michael O’Donoghue, Small Animal Veterinarian and Co-Founder of ‘People and Pets’
13. Anne Boxhall, Animal Welfare Advocate with 28 years’ experience in sheltering and rescue
14. Ryan Jones, Founder and CEO of Refuel Creative*
15. Brittany Bloomer, International TV Presenter and Founder of charity Pound Paws*
16. Annette Hughes, Publisher of Where Pets Are Found*
17. Elliot Chapman, Customer Success Manager, HubSpot*
18. Tara O’Connell, Pet Diaries App Creator*
19. Dan White, Senior Brand Manager, Bayer Animal Health (categories 9 and 10)
20. Cathy Beer, Founder of Pets4Life (categories 9 and 10)
* New judges in 2020.
Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards 2020 Categories
1. Tim Vasudeva, Director of Corporate Affairs at Animals Australia
2. Dr Alison Shen, Veterinarian and Co-star in the TV series Bondi Vet Coast to Coast*
3. Nell Thompson, Coordinator for Getting 2 Zero
4. Emeritus Professor Jacquie Rand, Executive Director & Chief Scientist, Australian Pet Welfare Foundation*
5. Vickie Davy, Co-Founder & joint CEO of PetRescue
6. Dr Anthony Bennett, Veterinarian, Equine Dentist & Royal Easter Show panelist
7. Dr Jo Righetti, PhD Animal Behaviourist, Pet Problems Solved*
8. Dr Vanessa Rolf, Compassion Fatigue Therapist*
9. Brooke Rankmore, CEO at Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities*
10. Sandy Matheson, Founder & Managing Director of Jetpets
11. Dr Anne Fawcett, Animal Welfare Veterinarian
12. Dr Michael O’Donoghue, Small Animal Veterinarian and Co-Founder of ‘People and Pets’
13. Anne Boxhall, Animal Welfare Advocate with 28 years’ experience in sheltering and rescue
14. Ryan Jones, Founder and CEO of Refuel Creative*
15. Brittany Bloomer, International TV Presenter and Founder of charity Pound Paws*
16. Annette Hughes, Publisher of Where Pets Are Found*
17. Elliot Chapman, Customer Success Manager, HubSpot*
18. Tara O’Connell, Pet Diaries App Creator*
19. Dan White, Senior Brand Manager, Bayer Animal Health (categories 9 and 10)
20. Cathy Beer, Founder of Pets4Life (categories 9 and 10)
* New judges in 2020.
Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards 2020 Categories
1. Outstanding Rescue Group
2. Outstanding New Rescue Group
3. Outstanding Animal Shelter
4. Outstanding Council Animal Shelter
5. Innovation in Rescue
6. Community Education and Outreach Program
7. Volunteer of the Year
8. Refuel Digital Technology Award (new)
9. Advocate® People’s Rescue Story
10. Drontal® Foster Carer Story (new)
Open for Entries
Enter online from 1 May to close midnight on 19 July 2020.
To enter, visit www.rescueawards.com.au and follow the links.
Watch a short video to find out what our judges and past winners have to say about the Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards.
For updates on the Rescue Awards program, please visit www.rescueawards.com.au, sign up to the e-newsletter or follow the Rescue Awards on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. #jetpetsrescueawards2020 - Photo Credit (top): Jo Lyons Photography.
MEDIA RELEASE, 23rd April 2020
APRIL 12, 2020
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| Eddie is only one of thousands of puppies that die from Parvo in Northern NSW each year ... |
A national charity is calling on Northern NSW residents to urgently vaccinate their puppies and dogs, as a Parvovirus (Parvo) outbreak has swept through the region in the past month – leaving around 60 puppies and dogs dead.
Paws For A Purpose (PFAP) CEO and veterinarian, Dr Mark Kelman, said that local vets reported around 145 puppies and dogs struck down by the deadly disease across Tamworth, Manilla, Barraba, Bingara, Lighting Ridge and Coonamble.
NorthWest Vets’ Coonamble and Lightening Ridge clinics alone reported 29 deaths in the past four weeks and have received multiple daily calls from owners with sick and dying puppies. Many cases have died at home before being able to receive vet care.
Greencross Vets South Tamworth has seen 30 cases resulting in 21 deaths, while Piper Street Vet in Tamworth has witnessed 25 cases including 10 deaths. There has also been 30 cases at Manilla Vets and 10 at Bingara Vets.
Dr Kelman said these latest deaths were completely preventable and more deaths will happen during Autumn and Winter if residents do not act quickly.
The charity identified the outbreak with its new Parvo surveillance system, which collects case reports from vets and will soon be in operation across the country.
“Even though we are just piloting our Parvo disease-surveillance-and-alerting program, it is already detecting major outbreaks of this horrific disease, including this one and another outbreak across Central Queensland” said Dr Kelman.
“The recent rain across both regions seems to have brought on these outbreaks. Scientific studies have shown an association between recent rain and Parvo outbreaks, however, we are not exactly sure why – one theory is that the rain might physically move the virus into contact with domestic dogs.
“With increasing numbers of puppies being infected right now with the virus, it shows that these pets have not been fully vaccinated. The highest risk is for puppies that have not had their 16 week vaccination, or are younger than 16 weeks and haven’t been vaccinated in the past month.”
To prevent infection, all puppies must be vaccinated monthly from six weeks of age, until 16 weeks (four months). Adult dogs in high-risk Parvo areas and during outbreaks should be re-vaccinated every year.
Signs of Parvo disease are vomiting, diarrhoea, inappetence, lethargy, dehydration and sometimes blood in the dog’s faeces. Puppies can die as quickly as in 24 hours. Anyone who thinks their dog might have Parvo must ring their veterinarian immediately for advice.
Fast facts:
APRIL 6, 2020
Grieving pet owners looked after during COVID-19
A leading Australian pet cremation service is now offering a ‘contactless with care’ approach to support locals whose pets are passing away during the COVID-19 health crisis.
Tom Jorgensen, founder of Pet Angel Funerals based on the Gold Coast, said his crematorium was continuing to operate within normal trading hours to help those who have lost their pets.
“We now have a ‘contactless with care’ approach at Pet Angel Funerals,” said Mr Jorgensen.
“Our business is not just about cremating animals, it is about caring for those who are grieving, so rather than spending time face-to-face with grieving pet owners, we are working with them over the phone or via skype to ensure their needs are met and they feel cared for at their time of loss.
“We arrange to collect their pet from a safe place in the home and this ensures everyone’s safety.”
Mr Jorgensen said all staff were now required to wear protective gear when picking up animals and returning their ashes.
“Sadly, we are not in a position to hold viewings or services in our memorial room given the new distancing measures. “That said, we are ensuring that we have very quick turnaround times so pets’ ashes are back with their owners as soon as possible.”
Mr Jorgensen said his team was doing everything it could to provide immediate support to people who have lost their pets. “We know a lot of people are doing it tough at the moment, so we are taking additional time to talk to each of our clients to see what we can do to help,” he said.
"We have developed a comprehensive COVID-19 handbook for all staff. “We want to ensure that pet owners can take solace in the fact that we will always be here to support them, and take every precaution necessary to ensure their safety during these uncertain times.
“Our community already has so much to deal with – we would like to continue doing all that we can to support them in other areas of their lives.”
About Pet Angel Funerals
Pet Angel Funerals is a family-owned business dedicated to helping pet owners say goodbye to their beloved animals with grace and dignity. Founded in 2015, it is one of the largest and most-trusted pet cremation services in Queensland, guaranteeing all cremations are personalised and individual. State-of-the-art crematories and custom-built facilities allow Pet Angel Funerals to focus on offering affordable and compassionate pet cremation services that aim to make the difficult grieving process as painless as possible. To find more information on how Pet Angel Funerals can be of support, visit www.petangel.com.au.
To prevent infection, all puppies must be vaccinated monthly from six weeks of age, until 16 weeks (four months). Adult dogs in high-risk Parvo areas and during outbreaks should be re-vaccinated every year.
Signs of Parvo disease are vomiting, diarrhoea, inappetence, lethargy, dehydration and sometimes blood in the dog’s faeces. Puppies can die as quickly as in 24 hours. Anyone who thinks their dog might have Parvo must ring their veterinarian immediately for advice.
Fast facts:
- Parvo can live in the environment for up to a year, so it takes time for it to disappear after outbreaks occur.
- Parvo can be transported on people’s shoes, so even dogs that do not leave the house, or the farm, can still catch the virus if they are not properly vaccinated.
- Paws for A Purpose sells Premium Beef Dog Treats to raise money to fund its programs to stop Parvo.
- To purchase or become a stockist for the treats, which contain 100% Australian beef and no added preservatives, no colourings, no fillers, no starches and no artificial flavours, visit www.pawsforapurpose.org
APRIL 6, 2020
Grieving pet owners looked after during COVID-19
 |
| Pet Angel Funerals staff Nikki Murray and Tommy Macdonald in their protective gear with the new COVID-19 handbook |
Tom Jorgensen, founder of Pet Angel Funerals based on the Gold Coast, said his crematorium was continuing to operate within normal trading hours to help those who have lost their pets.
“We now have a ‘contactless with care’ approach at Pet Angel Funerals,” said Mr Jorgensen.
“Our business is not just about cremating animals, it is about caring for those who are grieving, so rather than spending time face-to-face with grieving pet owners, we are working with them over the phone or via skype to ensure their needs are met and they feel cared for at their time of loss.
“We arrange to collect their pet from a safe place in the home and this ensures everyone’s safety.”
Mr Jorgensen said all staff were now required to wear protective gear when picking up animals and returning their ashes.
“Sadly, we are not in a position to hold viewings or services in our memorial room given the new distancing measures. “That said, we are ensuring that we have very quick turnaround times so pets’ ashes are back with their owners as soon as possible.”
 |
| Photo (supplied) - Tom Jorgensen, his wife Anne along with their dogs Fifi and Peanut |
"We have developed a comprehensive COVID-19 handbook for all staff. “We want to ensure that pet owners can take solace in the fact that we will always be here to support them, and take every precaution necessary to ensure their safety during these uncertain times.
“Our community already has so much to deal with – we would like to continue doing all that we can to support them in other areas of their lives.”
About Pet Angel Funerals
Pet Angel Funerals is a family-owned business dedicated to helping pet owners say goodbye to their beloved animals with grace and dignity. Founded in 2015, it is one of the largest and most-trusted pet cremation services in Queensland, guaranteeing all cremations are personalised and individual. State-of-the-art crematories and custom-built facilities allow Pet Angel Funerals to focus on offering affordable and compassionate pet cremation services that aim to make the difficult grieving process as painless as possible. To find more information on how Pet Angel Funerals can be of support, visit www.petangel.com.au.
APRIL 3, 2020
The Petbarn Foundation partners with Animal Rescue Cooperative to pledge 1.7m meals to support animal rescue groups in need
Greencross, which operates Petbarn and a network of 16 general practice veterinary clinics, Animal Referral Hospitals and Animal Emergency Centres across Australia, is helping people and their pets at this time of need through its Petbarn Foundation.
Some animal rescue centres are seeing an increase in surrendered pets, with financial stress cited as a contributing factor to animal relinquishment[1].
The Petbarn Foundation together with Animal Rescue Cooperative (ARC) have pledged $500k which equates to 1.7m meals in pet-care relief to help animal rescue groups doing it tough amidst this crisis. Greencross CEO George Wahby said, “We know that pets play a pivotal role in contributing to the joy and wellbeing of families, so we are doing our best to ensure pets continue to stay in their loving homes.”
Animal Rescue and charity groups provide care, food and shelter for when no one else can. They rely on donations and volunteers however, due to COVID-19 this assistance has been limited. Immediate support from the Petbarn Foundation and ARC will provide Pet Care Relief Packages to pet rescue groups to enable them to continue caring for animals across Australia.
The Pet Care Relief Assistance Package will include:
✔️ 1.7 Million dog and cat meals
✔️ 5,000 Flea, tick and worming treatments
✔️ 5 x Tonnes of cat litter
✔️ 500 kilos of chicken feed
Scott Charters, The Petbarn Foundation Chairperson, said: “Surrendering a pet is a distressing last resort for many people, and many of the reasons for surrender are beyond the owners’ control.
“Sadly, during these unprecedented times, we are likely to see an increase in the number of pets that are surrendered as the impact of COVID-19 puts many Australian families under extraordinary pressure.
“Unfortunately, this puts immense pressure on pet rescue groups that are so reliant on donations to keep them afloat.
“We hope our Pet Care Relief Packages will reduce the pressure and support these amazing organisations continue to look after the wellbeing of so many beloved animals. We have also pledged $100k to the NSW RSPCA to support people who have been tested positive for COVID-19 and cannot leave their homes-we will deliver their pet food and supplies at no cost to ensure their animals are kept fed”.
Program Manager, Animal Rescue Cooperative Jen Barbour, said: “It’s an uncertain time for so many of us and unfortunately pet rescue groups across Australia are feeling the strain too.
“With the number of pets surrendered to shelters expected to rise, it’s more important than ever that we support rescue shelters and charities to ensure the welfare of animals is not compromised during this difficult period.
“Our triage process will also ensure that these vital supplies of pet food reach those organisations that need it most.”
The Petbarn Foundation, in coordination with Animal Rescue Cooperative, will distribute packages through a Nationwide Network which consists of 13 key Distribution Hubs.
In addition, The Petbarn Foundation is assisting the RSPCA get food to people who are currently in quarantine by prioritising the order and providing free deliveries to all pet owners currently impacted by self-isolation measures.
For more information, visit www.petbarn.com.au/foundation
[1] ABC
APRIL 2, 2020
“We have seen so many animals go into their forever homes, and we hope they’re bringing you some much needed love, warmth and company,” says RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman.
“We are adapting to the changes as best we can to give our animals an opportunity to find loving homes, and to ensure our doors are still open for animals in need.”
RSPCA NSW has seen an incredible increase in adoptions across the state’s shelters and Petbarn adoption centres over the last two weeks, which saw just over 500 animals adopted across the state.
This represents an increase of 28% in adoptions across the state, compared to this time last year. For Petbarn adoption centres only, the increase has been a staggering 48% compared to this time last year.
Though the new adoption process will be via phone or video call, normal adoption procedures will apply to ensure every animal goes home with the right family.
There will be some compulsory purchase requirements also such as a carry box and/or lead and car harness. We will ensure that their new family also has all of the essentials needed to ensure the success of their new pet in the home.
Once the adoption is approved, an RSPCA staff member will drive the animal to their potential new home for a meet-and-greet. If everyone is happy, the adoption will be finalised.
RSPCA NSW shelters and care centres will remain closed to public walk-ins until further notice. Emergency surrenders and strays will be handled via appointment only.
The changes to the usual adoption process are temporary. Any person wishing to adopt a pet with Adopt from Home, please fill out an appointment request form and a staff member will be in touch. RSPCA NSW reminds the community that we are operating with a reduced number of staff, and are thankful for your patience at this time.
All animals available for adoption can be found online at www.rspcansw.org.au/adopt
Animal Rescue and charity groups provide care, food and shelter for when no one else can. They rely on donations and volunteers however, due to COVID-19 this assistance has been limited. Immediate support from the Petbarn Foundation and ARC will provide Pet Care Relief Packages to pet rescue groups to enable them to continue caring for animals across Australia.
The Pet Care Relief Assistance Package will include:
✔️ 1.7 Million dog and cat meals
✔️ 5,000 Flea, tick and worming treatments
✔️ 5 x Tonnes of cat litter
✔️ 500 kilos of chicken feed
Scott Charters, The Petbarn Foundation Chairperson, said: “Surrendering a pet is a distressing last resort for many people, and many of the reasons for surrender are beyond the owners’ control.
“Sadly, during these unprecedented times, we are likely to see an increase in the number of pets that are surrendered as the impact of COVID-19 puts many Australian families under extraordinary pressure.
“Unfortunately, this puts immense pressure on pet rescue groups that are so reliant on donations to keep them afloat.
“We hope our Pet Care Relief Packages will reduce the pressure and support these amazing organisations continue to look after the wellbeing of so many beloved animals. We have also pledged $100k to the NSW RSPCA to support people who have been tested positive for COVID-19 and cannot leave their homes-we will deliver their pet food and supplies at no cost to ensure their animals are kept fed”.
“With the number of pets surrendered to shelters expected to rise, it’s more important than ever that we support rescue shelters and charities to ensure the welfare of animals is not compromised during this difficult period.
“Our triage process will also ensure that these vital supplies of pet food reach those organisations that need it most.”
The Petbarn Foundation, in coordination with Animal Rescue Cooperative, will distribute packages through a Nationwide Network which consists of 13 key Distribution Hubs.
In addition, The Petbarn Foundation is assisting the RSPCA get food to people who are currently in quarantine by prioritising the order and providing free deliveries to all pet owners currently impacted by self-isolation measures.
For more information, visit www.petbarn.com.au/foundation
[1] ABC
APRIL 2, 2020
Adopt A Pet with 'Adopt from Home'
From today, all RSPCA NSW shelters and care centres are closed to public walk-ins, and animal adoptions will be processed via Adopt from Home, which will see the entire adoption processed via phone or video call and the animals being transported to their potential forever homes by RSPCA staff.
These changes come as further restrictions were announced by the Federal Government, and as new laws enacted by the NSW State Government came into effect this week to limit the spread of COVID-19.
“We have seen so many animals go into their forever homes, and we hope they’re bringing you some much needed love, warmth and company,” says RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman.
“We are adapting to the changes as best we can to give our animals an opportunity to find loving homes, and to ensure our doors are still open for animals in need.”
 |
| Zeke - adopted on March 30 |
This represents an increase of 28% in adoptions across the state, compared to this time last year. For Petbarn adoption centres only, the increase has been a staggering 48% compared to this time last year.
Though the new adoption process will be via phone or video call, normal adoption procedures will apply to ensure every animal goes home with the right family.
There will be some compulsory purchase requirements also such as a carry box and/or lead and car harness. We will ensure that their new family also has all of the essentials needed to ensure the success of their new pet in the home.
Once the adoption is approved, an RSPCA staff member will drive the animal to their potential new home for a meet-and-greet. If everyone is happy, the adoption will be finalised.
RSPCA NSW shelters and care centres will remain closed to public walk-ins until further notice. Emergency surrenders and strays will be handled via appointment only.
The changes to the usual adoption process are temporary. Any person wishing to adopt a pet with Adopt from Home, please fill out an appointment request form and a staff member will be in touch. RSPCA NSW reminds the community that we are operating with a reduced number of staff, and are thankful for your patience at this time.
All animals available for adoption can be found online at www.rspcansw.org.au/adopt
MARCH 13, 2020
Cautious Pet Owners Avoiding Clinic, Calling Vets Home
Coronavirus-cautious Australian pet owners keen to avoid taking their fur babies into vet waiting rooms are boosting demand for mobile veterinary services.
National app-based mobile vet booking service Pawssum Vets said it was experiencing a 200 percent spike in requests for home consultations on the back of fears about the virus.
Demand was rising across all states but was higher in Melbourne and Sydney, said Pawssum Vets co-founder Guy Sharabi.
“Many people are telling us they don’t want to take their pets out of the house, that they’re worried about the chance of exposing their pets and themselves to the coronavirus, so are calling the vet to their homes instead,” said Mr Sharabi.
“Even though the World Health Organization is stating there is no evidence that companion animals such as dogs or cats can become sick with the new coronavirus, it certainly appears some pet owners are self quarantining in their homes as much as they can.
“This consumer ‘stay at home’ or ‘nesting’ phenomenon is likely to increase demand for other order-in services like Uber Eats, Netflix and Amazon Prime.”
Pawssum vet Dr Kirsten Aberle said information from the World Organisation for Animal Health and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, the preeminent bodies associated with animal health, revealed no evidence that dogs or cats played a role in the spread of COVID-19.
“We do not have to fear that our pets will get sick from COVID-19, nor do we have to fear that they will give it to us,” said Dr Aberle.
“One dog has tested positive to COVID-19 after close contact with its infected owner, however the dog is not sick and transmission back to people has not been established. Our current knowledge is that COVID-19 is a human only disease.
“This new coronavirus infection is thought to have originated from Horseshoe Bat populations and the spread of it is due to human to human transmission only.
“Other coronaviruses exist in our pet populations, but they are not COVID-19; they are completely different viruses that do not cause COVID-19 disease.”
Pawssum Vets provides personalised health care to pets in the comfort of their home by highly-skilled local vets. On-demand veterinarians are available 365 days a year with extended operating hours.
Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world with the nation home to an estimated 5.1 million dogs and 3.8 million cats, and owners spending more than $13 billion a year on their fur babies**
* https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters
* https://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/ANIM001-Pet-Survey-Report19_v1.7_WEB_high-res.pdf
* https://www.oie.int/en/scientific-expertise/specific-information-and-recommendations/questions-and-answers-on-2019novel-coronavirus/
MARCH 10, 2020
Rhiannon Beach named 2020 Telstra Australian Capital Territory Business Women’s Small Business Award winner
Rhiannon Beach, Owner and Managing Director of Pups4Fun was last night awarded the 2020 Telstra ACT Business Women’s Small Business Award.
Rhiannon Beach’s unique approach to pet care is driven by investing in people and collaboration. Her dog daycare business, Pups4Fun, has grown from caring for a few pups per day, to more than 400 dogs per week.
Rhiannon enjoys pushing herself outside her comfort zone, growing through failure and challenges that business sometimes presents.
MARCH 5, 2020
Coronavirus-cautious Australian pet owners keen to avoid taking their fur babies into vet waiting rooms are boosting demand for mobile veterinary services.
National app-based mobile vet booking service Pawssum Vets said it was experiencing a 200 percent spike in requests for home consultations on the back of fears about the virus.
Demand was rising across all states but was higher in Melbourne and Sydney, said Pawssum Vets co-founder Guy Sharabi.
“Many people are telling us they don’t want to take their pets out of the house, that they’re worried about the chance of exposing their pets and themselves to the coronavirus, so are calling the vet to their homes instead,” said Mr Sharabi.
“Even though the World Health Organization is stating there is no evidence that companion animals such as dogs or cats can become sick with the new coronavirus, it certainly appears some pet owners are self quarantining in their homes as much as they can.
“This consumer ‘stay at home’ or ‘nesting’ phenomenon is likely to increase demand for other order-in services like Uber Eats, Netflix and Amazon Prime.”
Pawssum vet Dr Kirsten Aberle said information from the World Organisation for Animal Health and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, the preeminent bodies associated with animal health, revealed no evidence that dogs or cats played a role in the spread of COVID-19.
“We do not have to fear that our pets will get sick from COVID-19, nor do we have to fear that they will give it to us,” said Dr Aberle.
“One dog has tested positive to COVID-19 after close contact with its infected owner, however the dog is not sick and transmission back to people has not been established. Our current knowledge is that COVID-19 is a human only disease.
“This new coronavirus infection is thought to have originated from Horseshoe Bat populations and the spread of it is due to human to human transmission only.
“Other coronaviruses exist in our pet populations, but they are not COVID-19; they are completely different viruses that do not cause COVID-19 disease.”
Pawssum Vets provides personalised health care to pets in the comfort of their home by highly-skilled local vets. On-demand veterinarians are available 365 days a year with extended operating hours.
Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world with the nation home to an estimated 5.1 million dogs and 3.8 million cats, and owners spending more than $13 billion a year on their fur babies**
* https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters
* https://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/ANIM001-Pet-Survey-Report19_v1.7_WEB_high-res.pdf
* https://www.oie.int/en/scientific-expertise/specific-information-and-recommendations/questions-and-answers-on-2019novel-coronavirus/
MARCH 10, 2020
Rhiannon Beach named 2020 Telstra Australian Capital Territory Business Women’s Small Business Award winner
Rhiannon Beach’s unique approach to pet care is driven by investing in people and collaboration. Her dog daycare business, Pups4Fun, has grown from caring for a few pups per day, to more than 400 dogs per week.
Rhiannon enjoys pushing herself outside her comfort zone, growing through failure and challenges that business sometimes presents.
An advocate for the benefits of dogs on people’s mental and physical health, she is determined to be a driving force in Australia becoming a truly dog-friendly nation. She values being part of her community and providing an essential service to local people. By sharing her experience, successes and mistakes with others, she hopes to inspire other young women to get into business.
All 2020 State and Territory winners will be invited to Sydney for the National Awards judging on Wednesday 27 May. The national winners will then be announced at a dinner celebration on Thursday 28 May.
About the Telstra Business Women's Awards
For 25 years, the Telstra Business Women’s Awards have recognised more than 3,000 exceptional women in leadership, who are transforming the way we lead businesses from all corners of Australia and across all industries.
All 2020 State and Territory winners will be invited to Sydney for the National Awards judging on Wednesday 27 May. The national winners will then be announced at a dinner celebration on Thursday 28 May.
About the Telstra Business Women's Awards
For 25 years, the Telstra Business Women’s Awards have recognised more than 3,000 exceptional women in leadership, who are transforming the way we lead businesses from all corners of Australia and across all industries.
MARCH 5, 2020
Lort Smith welcomes changes that make it easier for Victorian renters to have pets
Lort Smith is applauding new laws on pets and renting. As of 2 March 2020, Victorian tenants wanting to incorporate a pet into their lifestyle can request their landlord’s consent via the Consumer Affairs Victoria pet request form here.
Regardless of when a lease has commenced, landlords can now not unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request to allow a pet. Lort Smith CEO, Fiona Webster welcomed the news as common sense.
“Melbourne is home to more than a million dogs and cats; and we know that animals are an important part of many families.” There are over 29 million pets in Australia [2] and with Melbourne being home to more than a million dogs and cats alone, there’s little doubt animals are part of the fabric of Victoria.
Located in North Melbourne, Lort Smith, Australia’s largest not-for-profit animal hospital, re-homes around 850 animals every year.
 |
| CEO Fiona Webster with her rescue German Shepherd, Teddy |
At Lort Smith, staff regularly see local residents visit the adoption hub to spend time with the animals. They have found some even become volunteers, because they can’t have pets at home and miss the valuable emotional connection of interacting with a cat or dog.
“The human-animal bond is very real and has huge impacts on the health and emotional wellbeing of people in the community,” said Ms Webster.
Despite misplaced claims, there’s no reason to consider pet owners as bad or risky tenants – in fact, the opposite is probably true. “A well trained and properly cared for pet, with an attentive owner, will cause no more wear and tear to a residential property than a human,” stated Ms Webster.
The new laws do not apply to pets already present before 2 March 2020. Prior to these changes there were no laws directly covering pets in rented homes.
Lort Smith is the largest not-for-profit animal hospital in Australia, delivering essential and life-saving services to sick, injured and vulnerable animals. Each year our team of more than 60 vets and 110 nurses provide quality care for around 25,000 animals. Lort Smith re-homes approximately 850 animals each year and operates a number of community outreach programs which have a significant social impact on the community. Lort Smith receives no ongoing government funding.
[2] Animal
Medicines Australia (2019) Pet Ownership in Australia 2019
https://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/ANIM001-Pet-Survey-Report19_v1.7_WEB_high-res.pdf (accessed on 04 March 2020).
FEBRUARY 28, 2020
The new state-of-the-art Shale Hills Dog Park at Western Sydney Parklands has opened to the community this week.
Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the new $3.7 million park will be a major drawcard for dog-lovers.
“Shale Hills Dog Park is an exciting addition to the Southern end of Western Sydney Parklands and will provide residents from West Hoxton and surrounding communities with new quality green open space – right on the doorstep of the future Aerotropolis city,” Mr Stokes said.
Executive Director of Western Sydney Parklands Trust Suellen Fitzgerald said it’s incredibly satisfying to see the Trust deliver a community facility of this calibre, placing people and their pets at the heart of its design to meet the needs of the residents and visitors.
“The new dog park provides residents with a green recreational entry to the Parklands and natural firebreak, while showcasing the beautiful aesthetic of the adjacent bushland corridor and Shale Hills Walking Loop,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
“This is the first of many transformational projects the Trust will deliver in the Parklands over the next decade.”
The new park offers a range of experiences for dogs including:
- Large off-leash area with free running space, grassed slopes and play mounds
- Dog agility area and training circuit
- Sensory garden featuring English Lavender, Lemon-scented Thyme, Chamomile Sunray, Native Mint Bush, Pale Vanilla Lily, Prostrate Rosemary and more
- Terrace with sweeping views, shade umbrellas and dog respite area
- Australian natives planting of the Cumberland Plain including Melaleuca Grove, Spotted Gums, Figs and Eucalyptus.
- Improved connection into the Parklands with a new access road and roundabout at the intersection of Second Avenue and Mannow Avenue.
For more information, please visit www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au
FEBRUARY 19, 2020
In an Australian-first, RSPCA South Australia launched a visionary new education program – and offering it completely free to all students and teachers in their state.
This is one of the most important steps RSPCA South Australia has taken to reduce animal abuse in their 144-year history.
How will it help?
Well, the RSPCA AWARE program (Animal Wellbeing: Awareness, Responsibility and Education) places animal welfare learning front and centre in our schools.
Through their free series of resources for teachers, students and parents, young people will develop skills, knowledge and a strong understanding of animal care while engaging in issues that surround animal welfare. It’s prevention through education.
The best part? RSPCA AWARE fully integrates with the Australian Curriculum. This means students can learn vital English or Maths lessons, for example, using the concepts of animal wellbeing to provide a real life context – so they’re more likely to get interested and stay interested in key subjects.
RSPCA AWARE is adapted from a similar program run in New Zealand, which is already loved by both teachers and students. Last year, this version was trialled in 18 different schools in South Australia. It was a resounding success! You might like to watch this short video to hear from some of the kids and teachers.
For more information, please visit www.rspcasa.org.au/services/aware/
“Until 23rd March 2020, any Pet Insurance Australia policy purchased will receive an impressive 25% off premiums - for the LIFE of your pet*” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “This offer is open to dog and cat owners nationwide.”
With many new pet parents looking for pet insurance there’s no better time to get your beloved bundle of fur covered.
“Pet Insurance Australia has never offered this type of saving before and is really a once in a lifetime opportunity for Australian pet lovers to make some sensational savings on their pet insurance premiums.”
As long as there is no break, or change in cover, the 25% discount applies for the LIFE of the pet and is calculated as one-quarter of the annual premiums spread evenly over each policy period and deducted from each premium instalment. The discount will be factored into the premium displayed on your Certificate of Insurance each year.
“At Pet Insurance Australia, we understand that the decision to insure your pet can be a difficult one,” Crighton says. “Most consumers do not appreciate the importance of insurance until the unthinkable occurs.”
This is what has spurred Pet Insurance Australia to come up with this unique opportunity for pet owners - 25% off new policy premiums for the LIFE of the pet.*
“At PIA we want every pet owner to have access to care and treatment for their pets,” Crighton says. “Having pet insurance can give pet owners a helping hand to access these services.”
“A pet eating a corn cob can cost $14,000, and high-end cancer treatments can cost $25,000,” Crighton says. “All insured pet owners hope they never have to use it, but a pet insurance policy can help protect your loved ones when the unexpected happens.”
With savings like this, Australians can consider the peace-of-mind that pet insurance can provide knowing their pet has access to cover that can help during times of sickness and injury.
“Every day we see first-hand the real-life effects of having pet insurance and the lives saved,” Crighton says. “Being able to offer such a wonderful promotion to allow more companion animals access to our insurance policies is something PIA is very proud of.”
The average retail/payable premium for PIA was $570 for January 2020 so this could mean a saving of around $142.50 each year, for the lifetime of the pet.
See the savings here!
Pet Insurance Australia Facts
*Offer is subject to the terms and conditions of the Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) policy. Offer applies to new PIA Pet Insurance policies purchased using the promo code PIA254LIFE before 23/03/2020. Offer does not apply to a continuation of any current or previous pet insurance policies you hold issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd. Discount applies for the life of your pet (as long as there is no break in cover) and is calculated as one quarter of your annual premiums spread evenly over each policy period and deducted from each premium instalment. The discount will be factored into your premium displayed on your Certificate of Insurance each year unless advised otherwise. Please note that your premium will still increase each year in accordance with the policy terms and conditions. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. PIA may vary, amend, extend or withdraw this offer at any time without notice.
This offer is only valid on policies purchased before 23/03/2020 and the discount ceases to apply where there is a break, gap or change in your level of cover.
Any advice provided is general only. Pet Insurance Australia is issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (AFSL 241436), administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (AFSL 420183) and promoted by Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd (AR no. 326233), an Authorised Representative of PetSure. You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement available at www.petinsuranceaustralia.com.au in deciding whether to acquire or continue to hold this insurance.
Vets Beyond Borders providing veterinary volunteers and funding to help wildlife impacted by bushfires
As the bushfires ravaging many parts of Australia are having wide ranging and devastating impacts on local communities, Australia-based international animal charity Vets Beyond Borders highlights the serious impact of the continuing disaster on animal populations.
VBB’s Australian Veterinary Emergency Response Team (AVERT) is assisting government authorities with animal evacuations and providing care to animals impacted by the fires.
“Countless animals, both domesticated species and wildlife, have died – we can not bring them back. However, Australians can and will do all we can to care for survivors, especially sick and injured animals,” said VBB Director Dr Ian Douglas.
“Governments in affected states are responding as fast as they can to the crisis and have deployed veterinarians and allied staff to the fire-grounds. VBB is working with this government response and is providing authorities with appropriately experienced veterinary volunteers from AVERT to assist in this work.”
Many hundreds of vets and vet nurses have registered to volunteer with AVERT, with more offers of assistance pouring in every day, from Australia and overseas.
“We sincerely thank everyone who has responded to our call for volunteers. The generosity of the veterinary profession is an inspiration” said Dr Douglas.
VBB assistance for wildlife rescue groups
In addition to the government-coordinated effort, VBB is also offering support to wildlife rescue groups struggling to provide care to wildlife.
“Whilst VBB is already assisting in government responses through provision of AVERT volunteers, we are also positioned provide direct support to organisations that will be inundated with sick and injured wildlife,” said Dr Douglas.
VBB is already assisting Adelaide Koala Rescue in South Australia, providing veterinary volunteers to assist them in their work following recent fires in Adelaide Hills.
“We are now contacting groups in other affected regions, to offer the services of our veterinary volunteers and provide financial support to enable the purchase of veterinary supplies, mainly analgesics (pain killing medications), burns dressings, rehydrating fluids and antibiotics. We are keen to hear from organisations that would like the assistance of VBB,” he said.
Animal rescue groups in need of help are asked to contact Vets Beyond Borders on admin@vetsbeyondborders.org
Veterinarians, vet nurses and other veterinary personnel willing to join the AVERT team, are asked register interest via www.vetsbeyondborders.org/avert-registration/
For more information about our programs and how you can help, please visit www.vetsbeyondborders.org
National relief for wildlife in need
As bushfires ravage Australia, and an estimated half a billion animals perish, PETstock and its charity PETstock Assist have pledged more than $150,000 to wildlife organisations in affected states.
Donations will be made to Wildlife Victoria, Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) in NSW, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (Wildcare Australia) in QLD and Fauna Rescue SA.
PETstock has experienced the impact of these fires directly, with team members and stores affected on the south coast of NSW and East Gippsland in Victoria.
PETstock CEO Shane Young says he’s humbled by the support and care shown by team members in affected areas and beyond.
“Stores within the affected areas of NSW and Victoria are working with and supporting their local communities to supply food and products to those in immediate need and taking refuge in relief centres,” he says. “Nationwide our team has shown an outpouring of generosity and goodwill to help those affected.
“Beyond the direct donation made by PETstock and PETstock Assist we will also be providing channels for the community to support these wildlife organisations as they care for the animals impacted by these devastating fires.”
All donations made to PETstock Assist throughout January will be donated to Bushfire Support through the following wildlife charities: Wildlife Victoria, Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) in NSW, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (Wildcare Australia) in QLD and Fauna Rescue SA.
How you can help
About PETstock Assist
PETstock Assist is a registered charity committed to making a long-term difference and positive change in the lives of pets and humans through education, awareness and donations. 100% of donations to PETstock Assist are donated to charities that share its mission.
Since inception, PETstock Assist has microchipped more than 22,000 pets, found homes for more than 12,000 rescue pets, coordinated food drives to the value of $5 million and donated more than $3 million to charities including PetRescue, Guide Dogs, Assistance Dogs, Young Diggers, individual rescue groups and many more.
The Petbarn Foundation delivers $1.2 million to support Australian animals
As bushfires continue to ravage the country, people, companion animals, and wildlife are being displaced and killed. It’s estimated almost half a billion animals have perished, with habitats lost and animals left without access to food.
Petbarn, City Farmers, Greencross Vets, Animal Emergency Centre (AEC), Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) and Veterinary Referral Hospital (VRH), under the Greencross Limited banner, have united with The Petbarn Foundation to help animals at this time of need. Animal welfare organisations are at the forefront of the unrelenting fight for the survival of Australia’s pets and native animals.
The Petbarn Foundation is providing over $1.2m to several partners via a combination of funds, food and supplies to evacuation centres in emergency sites, and vets volunteering their time.
Scott Charters, 'The Petbarn Foundation' Chairperson, said: "We are offering support to organisations who are helping pets caught in the disaster, as well as the many animals and wildlife injured in the fires." The Petbarn Foundation is currently providing over $1.2m to worthy charities;
We have, and will continue to allow, our resources and skilled vets to assist in a variety of ways.
Greencross Limited CEO George Wahby said caring for animals is ingrained in the company's values. "Like every Australian, we are all saddened by the devastation and destruction caused by the extensive bushfires, and now more than ever, we need to pull together to support the pets and native animals most precious to our beautiful country. Our team have been incredible, as it’s at the core of our values to protect all animals, native and domestic, and that’s why we are so passionate about ensuring we help Australian animals get through this devastating time,” Mr Wahby said.
Greencross Limited is thankful to their community who have reached out to offer support for pets and wildlife, who have been affected by these devastating bushfires, and asks that customers and clients that would like to pledge their support, do so by donating at any Petbarn store, Greencross Vets clinic, Animal Emergency Centre or any of our specialist hospitals like ARH, VRH or online at www.petbarn.com.au/donate.
Partner Websites:
About the Petbarn Foundation:
Founded in 2012, the Petbarn Foundation aims to support pet welfare programs and organisations throughout Australia actively. All Greencross Limited Companies support The Petbarn Foundation and its initiatives.
FEBRUARY 13, 2020
Pet Insurance Australia announces its biggest promotion to date: 25% off Pet Insurance for the life of your pet.
“Until 23rd March 2020, any Pet Insurance Australia policy purchased will receive an impressive 25% off premiums - for the LIFE of your pet*” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “This offer is open to dog and cat owners nationwide.”
With many new pet parents looking for pet insurance there’s no better time to get your beloved bundle of fur covered.
“Pet Insurance Australia has never offered this type of saving before and is really a once in a lifetime opportunity for Australian pet lovers to make some sensational savings on their pet insurance premiums.”
As long as there is no break, or change in cover, the 25% discount applies for the LIFE of the pet and is calculated as one-quarter of the annual premiums spread evenly over each policy period and deducted from each premium instalment. The discount will be factored into the premium displayed on your Certificate of Insurance each year.
“At Pet Insurance Australia, we understand that the decision to insure your pet can be a difficult one,” Crighton says. “Most consumers do not appreciate the importance of insurance until the unthinkable occurs.”
This is what has spurred Pet Insurance Australia to come up with this unique opportunity for pet owners - 25% off new policy premiums for the LIFE of the pet.*
“At PIA we want every pet owner to have access to care and treatment for their pets,” Crighton says. “Having pet insurance can give pet owners a helping hand to access these services.”
“A pet eating a corn cob can cost $14,000, and high-end cancer treatments can cost $25,000,” Crighton says. “All insured pet owners hope they never have to use it, but a pet insurance policy can help protect your loved ones when the unexpected happens.”
With savings like this, Australians can consider the peace-of-mind that pet insurance can provide knowing their pet has access to cover that can help during times of sickness and injury.
“Every day we see first-hand the real-life effects of having pet insurance and the lives saved,” Crighton says. “Being able to offer such a wonderful promotion to allow more companion animals access to our insurance policies is something PIA is very proud of.”
The average retail/payable premium for PIA was $570 for January 2020 so this could mean a saving of around $142.50 each year, for the lifetime of the pet.
See the savings here!
Pet Insurance Australia Facts
- Pet insurance is heavily used: 37% of PIA customers claimed last financial year, submitting an average of 5.3 claims.
- Pet insurance is used more than many other insurances: pet insurance policies make up only around 1% of general insurance customers, but account for 12% of claims processed.
- Pet insurance pays out: pet insurance has some exclusions, but 81% of PIA claims were accepted and paid out last financial year. In 2019, PIA paid $11.3m million in claims benefits.
- PIA also utilises the GapOnlyTM service, making it even easier for clients to pay and claim for their eligible veterinary treatments at participating vets.
This offer is only valid on policies purchased before 23/03/2020 and the discount ceases to apply where there is a break, gap or change in your level of cover.
Any advice provided is general only. Pet Insurance Australia is issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (AFSL 241436), administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (AFSL 420183) and promoted by Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd (AR no. 326233), an Authorised Representative of PetSure. You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement available at www.petinsuranceaustralia.com.au in deciding whether to acquire or continue to hold this insurance.
JANUARY 8, 2020
As the bushfires ravaging many parts of Australia are having wide ranging and devastating impacts on local communities, Australia-based international animal charity Vets Beyond Borders highlights the serious impact of the continuing disaster on animal populations.
VBB’s Australian Veterinary Emergency Response Team (AVERT) is assisting government authorities with animal evacuations and providing care to animals impacted by the fires.
“Countless animals, both domesticated species and wildlife, have died – we can not bring them back. However, Australians can and will do all we can to care for survivors, especially sick and injured animals,” said VBB Director Dr Ian Douglas.
“Governments in affected states are responding as fast as they can to the crisis and have deployed veterinarians and allied staff to the fire-grounds. VBB is working with this government response and is providing authorities with appropriately experienced veterinary volunteers from AVERT to assist in this work.”
Many hundreds of vets and vet nurses have registered to volunteer with AVERT, with more offers of assistance pouring in every day, from Australia and overseas.
“We sincerely thank everyone who has responded to our call for volunteers. The generosity of the veterinary profession is an inspiration” said Dr Douglas.
VBB assistance for wildlife rescue groups
In addition to the government-coordinated effort, VBB is also offering support to wildlife rescue groups struggling to provide care to wildlife.
“Whilst VBB is already assisting in government responses through provision of AVERT volunteers, we are also positioned provide direct support to organisations that will be inundated with sick and injured wildlife,” said Dr Douglas. VBB is already assisting Adelaide Koala Rescue in South Australia, providing veterinary volunteers to assist them in their work following recent fires in Adelaide Hills.
“We are now contacting groups in other affected regions, to offer the services of our veterinary volunteers and provide financial support to enable the purchase of veterinary supplies, mainly analgesics (pain killing medications), burns dressings, rehydrating fluids and antibiotics. We are keen to hear from organisations that would like the assistance of VBB,” he said.
Animal rescue groups in need of help are asked to contact Vets Beyond Borders on admin@vetsbeyondborders.org
Veterinarians, vet nurses and other veterinary personnel willing to join the AVERT team, are asked register interest via www.vetsbeyondborders.org/avert-registration/
For more information about our programs and how you can help, please visit www.vetsbeyondborders.org
National relief for wildlife in need
As bushfires ravage Australia, and an estimated half a billion animals perish, PETstock and its charity PETstock Assist have pledged more than $150,000 to wildlife organisations in affected states.
Donations will be made to Wildlife Victoria, Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) in NSW, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (Wildcare Australia) in QLD and Fauna Rescue SA.
PETstock has experienced the impact of these fires directly, with team members and stores affected on the south coast of NSW and East Gippsland in Victoria.
PETstock CEO Shane Young says he’s humbled by the support and care shown by team members in affected areas and beyond.
“Stores within the affected areas of NSW and Victoria are working with and supporting their local communities to supply food and products to those in immediate need and taking refuge in relief centres,” he says. “Nationwide our team has shown an outpouring of generosity and goodwill to help those affected.
“Beyond the direct donation made by PETstock and PETstock Assist we will also be providing channels for the community to support these wildlife organisations as they care for the animals impacted by these devastating fires.”
How you can help
- Round up your purchase online or in-store – every bit makes a difference
- Donate to PETstock Assist online or via donation boxes in-store nationally
- Wash your dog for a cause – from Monday 6 January to Sunday 12 January all DIY Dog Wash sales will be donated to local partnering charities to provide relief to those communities directly affected.
About PETstock Assist
PETstock Assist is a registered charity committed to making a long-term difference and positive change in the lives of pets and humans through education, awareness and donations. 100% of donations to PETstock Assist are donated to charities that share its mission.
Since inception, PETstock Assist has microchipped more than 22,000 pets, found homes for more than 12,000 rescue pets, coordinated food drives to the value of $5 million and donated more than $3 million to charities including PetRescue, Guide Dogs, Assistance Dogs, Young Diggers, individual rescue groups and many more.
JANUARY 7, 2020
As bushfires continue to ravage the country, people, companion animals, and wildlife are being displaced and killed. It’s estimated almost half a billion animals have perished, with habitats lost and animals left without access to food.
Petbarn, City Farmers, Greencross Vets, Animal Emergency Centre (AEC), Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) and Veterinary Referral Hospital (VRH), under the Greencross Limited banner, have united with The Petbarn Foundation to help animals at this time of need. Animal welfare organisations are at the forefront of the unrelenting fight for the survival of Australia’s pets and native animals.
The Petbarn Foundation is providing over $1.2m to several partners via a combination of funds, food and supplies to evacuation centres in emergency sites, and vets volunteering their time.
Scott Charters, 'The Petbarn Foundation' Chairperson, said: "We are offering support to organisations who are helping pets caught in the disaster, as well as the many animals and wildlife injured in the fires." The Petbarn Foundation is currently providing over $1.2m to worthy charities;
- $551k donation to the RSPCA, from the Christmas ‘Tree of Hope’ campaign
- $390k donation to 33 local charities from the ‘Tree of Hope’ campaign
- Eight pallets of bird food and supplies have been donated to Native Animal Rescue Group
- Over 100 pallets of dog and cat food and supplies have been donated to evacuation centres, pet rescues and farmers
- $75k donation to Vets Beyond Borders for vital Vet assistance
- $100k Foundation Evacuation/Pound Packs for companion animal assistance to Showgrounds and Pounds in emergency sites
- $25k Wildlife Care Package via the Rescue Collective
- $50k WIRES donation to support the care of native wildlife
- $10k for Dingo Rescue
We have, and will continue to allow, our resources and skilled vets to assist in a variety of ways.
Greencross Limited CEO George Wahby said caring for animals is ingrained in the company's values. "Like every Australian, we are all saddened by the devastation and destruction caused by the extensive bushfires, and now more than ever, we need to pull together to support the pets and native animals most precious to our beautiful country. Our team have been incredible, as it’s at the core of our values to protect all animals, native and domestic, and that’s why we are so passionate about ensuring we help Australian animals get through this devastating time,” Mr Wahby said.
Greencross Limited is thankful to their community who have reached out to offer support for pets and wildlife, who have been affected by these devastating bushfires, and asks that customers and clients that would like to pledge their support, do so by donating at any Petbarn store, Greencross Vets clinic, Animal Emergency Centre or any of our specialist hospitals like ARH, VRH or online at www.petbarn.com.au/donate.
Partner Websites:
www.petbarn.com.au| www.greencrossvet.com.au| www.aecvets.com.au| www.vrh247.com.au| www.arhvets.com.au| www.cityfarmers.com.au| www.vetreferrals.com.au| aaerc.com.au
About the Petbarn Foundation:
Founded in 2012, the Petbarn Foundation aims to support pet welfare programs and organisations throughout Australia actively. All Greencross Limited Companies support The Petbarn Foundation and its initiatives.
