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An RSPCA Cupcake Day poster featuring a happy Alaskan Malamute with his tongue out and pink cupcakes above his head


Cupcake Day Returns: Bake a Difference for Animals in Need This September

This September, RSPCA is calling on all animal lovers to indulge in a little sweet treat and participate in one of the nation’s most delicious fundraisers, Cupcake Day

You can host an event any time throughout the month of September at any location, including schools, workplaces, outdoor picnics, or home, with all funds raised going directly to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need.

"Cupcake Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy a sweet treat with your work colleagues, classmates, family, or friends, while contributing to the care of thousands of animals across the country,” said RSPCA NSW Community Fundraising Manager, Ben Wilheim.

“Just last year, over 81,000 animals turned to the RSPCA for shelter, love, and warmth. By hosting your very own Cupcake Day event, you can help serve up the kindness, compassion, and care that every animal deserves.”

An RSPCA Cupcake Day promotional image featuring a happy Border Collie surrounded by falling potato chips on a blue background



Every dollar you raise makes a tangible difference:
  • $38 can provide a warm bed and care for an animal in a shelter for one day.
  • $93 can transport multiple animals to shelters with a higher chance of being adopted.
  • $120 can subsidise emergency surgery for an animal in need.

Whether it’s baking cookies, quiches, muffins, doughnuts, or even creating an antipasto grazing platter to share, hosts are encouraged to explore their culinary creativity and, most importantly, have fun, all while supporting a special cause.


To help with your event, RSPCA offers a variety of downloadable resources, including social media tiles, email signatures, decorations, games, and a host guide. You can also access a range of recipes on the official website.

Participants can visit rspcacupcakeday.com.au and register to host their event today.


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TV celebrity Yvie Jones sits on a couch, smiling as a Boston Terrier places a paw on her smartphone


Australia's love affair with pets has reached new heights. A new national report reveals how our furry friends have well and truly made the move from the backyard to the bedroom, proving Aussies are now deep in their 'pet parenting era.'

New data from Mad Paws exposes the surprising truths behind Australia’s love affair with its pets.

Australia’s love affair with pets has reached new heights, with a new national report revealing just how far our furry friends have burrowed their way into our hearts.

With International Dog Day approaching (26 August), it’s a fitting opportunity to reflect on the evolution of the family pet.

The 2025 Australian Pet Lifestyle Index, compiled by Mad Paws, surveyed thousands of pet owners nationwide to uncover the habits, routines, and shifting cultural attitudes shaping modern pet life.

Key findings include:

Living arrangements: 


According to the survey, 92% of dogs sleep indoors. And, of the 36,000 pet parents who specified exactly where their dog sleeps, a massive 62% said their pup sleeps in their bedroom, if not in the bed.

Diet and mealtimes: 


Premium and specialty diets are on the rise, reflecting the trend of “pet humanisation”. Data collected from pet parents reveals that roughly 1 in 6 pets are fed raw or lightly cooked food for every meal.

Exercise and enrichment: 


A professional dog walker uses a treat to encourage a happy dog to stand on its hind legs on a boardwalk by a lake



While most owners acknowledge their pets’ need for daily exercise, many admit they struggle to find the time. Data from another study reveals a significant shortfall in Aussies meeting their dog's exercise needs. However, professional dog walkers are coming to the rescue, with more and more pet parents outsourcing this important task. 

By mid-2025, the Mad Paws community of dog walkers had already completed over 27,000 walks. That puts the company on track for a record year of almost 50,000 walks – nearly 60% more than last year.

Pet healthcare: 


Preventive care, regular vet check-ups, and adequate mental enrichment becoming standard practice. Data collected from pet parents reveals nearly 1 in 4 dogs (23.4%) and 1 in 11 cats (8.9%) suffer from allergies.

Training and care: 

An Australian Shepherd gazing at a pet sitter while sitting on a couch with its front paws on the sitter's lap
Of the pet population surveyed, 92.26% of dogs and 96.38% of cats are house-trained. They’ve undoubtedly proven themselves to be worthy of living indoors.
“In 2025, we’re well and truly in our pet parenting era,” said Justus Hammer, CEO at Mad Paws. “Pets are no longer just companions. They’re treated as family members with diets better than ours, and sleeping arrangements that rival ours too.”

And the proof is in the pudding. Pets are living longer and healthier lives. In fact, according to the Global Animal Health Association, dog life expectancy has doubled in the past four decades, and house cats now live twice as long as their feral counterparts.

The report highlights the continuing humanisation of pets, as Australians navigate busy lifestyles while still prioritising their furry family member’s health and wellbeing.

View the full 2025 Australian Pet Lifestyle Index here
Cover of the 2025 Australian Pet Lifestyle Index, a survey by Mad Paws

About Mad Paws

As Australia’s largest online pet care marketplace, Mad Paws provides a safe and convenient platform that connects pet parents with over 50,000 Pet Sitters, Dog Walkers, Groomers & Trainers. Mad Paws has completed over 2 million bookings to date, and holds the title of independent consumer review site, Product Review’s ‘Best Pet Boarding & Sitting Service’ - two years in a row!

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dog lying down while a person checks for ticks, with a large, engorged paralysis tick attached to its chest



This guide, compiled from insights provided by Pet Insurance Australia, the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH), and Elanco, offers a comprehensive look at the dangers of tick-borne diseases in Australia and provides practical advice for dog owners on how to protect their pets year-round.

The Year-Round Threat: Paralysis Ticks


Tick paralysis is a life-threatening condition caused by a neurotoxin released by certain species of ticks. The toxin can lead to progressive, ascending paralysis, which often starts with weakness in the hind legs and moves forward. In severe cases, this can lead to respiratory failure.
"In severe cases, it can result in respiratory failure,” says Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia
“Common signs include unsteadiness when walking, difficulty standing, laboured breathing, lethargy, changes in vocalisation, loss of appetite, and vomiting.”

A paralysis tick engorged with dog blood on the left, and a normal-sized paralysis tick on the right, with a pen next to them for scale
New data confirms that the threat of tick paralysis is not limited to warmer months. The Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) has confirmed over 700 cases of tick paralysis in pets since early 2023, with cases occurring year-round. While most cases are seen along the east coast, a recent case in Adelaide highlights the expanding range of this threat. 

PetSure’s 2025 Pet Health Monitor reveals that treatment for tick paralysis can be extremely costly, with some individual claims exceeding $57,000.

"These new SASH figures and PetSure data show clearly—tick risks don’t disappear in cooler months. Year-round prevention is critical to keep pets safe and avoid serious treatment costs,” Crighton warns.

The Spreading Threat: Ehrlichiosis


In addition to paralysis ticks, Australian dogs face a growing threat from ehrlichiosis, a potentially fatal bacterial disease transmitted by the brown dog tick. Since its first detection in Australia in 2020, ehrlichiosis has spread rapidly across the northern and central parts of the country and is now increasingly seen in southern states.


a brown and black dog appears lethargic, a common sign of ehrlichiosis infection
Dr. Liisa Ahlstrom, Technical Veterinarian at Elanco, warns of the alarming speed and severity of this disease. "In some areas where access to veterinary care is limited, it’s been estimated that up to 80% of dogs have died. It’s been heart-breaking witnessing the devastating impact of this disease.”


Early symptoms of ehrlichiosis include fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. In later stages, dogs may suffer from bleeding disorders, cloudy eyes, and organ damage. 

Unlike with some other diseases, there is currently no vaccine for ehrlichiosis. Treatment can be long and costly, and while dogs can recover, they may experience relapses as the bacteria can "hide" within the body.

The Crucial Difference in Prevention


A key point of confusion for many pet owners is that some tick products, while effective at killing ticks, may not prevent diseases like ehrlichiosis. This is because ehrlichiosis can be transmitted to a dog within just a few hours of a tick bite, while many products take 2-3 days to kill the tick.

"It’s critical for dog owners to understand that to protect their pet from ehrlichiosis, they must use a tick product that repels ticks, to stop them biting and transmitting the bacteria that cause the disease,” says Dr. Ahlstrom.

Guide to Protecting Your Dog from Ticks


  • Use Year-Round Prevention

The most important step is to use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products 12 months a year. These products should be discussed with your local vet to ensure your pet is adequately protected, especially if you live in or are travelling to a known tick-prone area.

✔️ For Paralysis Ticks: Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia advises, "In Australia, several preventative treatments are available to protect pets from paralysis ticks, and we strongly advise all pet owners to discuss protection with their local veterinarian to ensure their pets are kept safe.”

✔️ For Ehrlichiosis: Dr. Ahlstrom recommends using a product that repels ticks to stop them from biting in the first place. This is crucial for preventing the transmission of the bacteria that cause the disease.

  • Conduct Daily Tick Checks
a person wearing blue surgical gloves removes tick from dog's face using a yellow tick twist remover



Even with preventative products, daily tick searches are a critical part of a good prevention strategy. Ticks love to hide in warm, hard-to-see places.


✔️ Where to Check: Pay special attention to your dog's ears, mouth, lips, and under the tail.

✔️ When to Check: Perform checks daily, especially if your dog spends time outdoors in grassy or bushland areas or socializes with other dogs.

  • Know the Symptoms and Act Immediately
Being able to recognise the signs of a tick-borne illness can be the difference between life and death for your pet.

✔️ Signs of Tick Paralysis: Look for limb weakness, unsteadiness, lethargy, coughing, or vomiting. Tick paralysis is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary care.

✔️ Signs of Ehrlichiosis: Watch for lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, or unusual bleeding or bruising. These symptoms also warrant immediate veterinary attention.

  • Research Your Travel Destinations
Geographical spread of paralysis, bush, brown, and cattle ticks in Australia, with an outline of each tick species for identification
"Even if you don’t live in a known tick-prone area, it’s crucial to research your travel destination,” says Crighton. Many pet owners are caught off guard when visiting regions with high tick activity without adequate protection in place for their pets.




To celebrate International Dog Day (August 26) and the return of warmer days, we've teamed up with Woodslane Press for a competition. 

We're giving away 4 copies of "Travelling with Pets on Australia's East Coast," the ultimate pet-friendly travel guide to help you hit the road with your furry friends and discover the best of Australia.

If you're planning to travel with your dog (or cat, bird, horse), you'll love this independently researched and newly updated 7th edition. It's the definitive guide to pet-friendly accommodation and travel along Australia's East Coast, from 5-star hotels to campgrounds between Port Douglas and Port Fairy.

Every entry includes a brief, unbiased opinion plus details regarding price and which pets are welcome. Now also featuring the best doggie days out, dog-friendly beaches and parks, cafés, pubs and wineries, so you can enjoy family outings with your beloved furry friends.

In collating this invaluable resource for pet owners, no advertising was accepted, and only the authors choice of the best accommodation has been included.

Pet-Friendly Travel in Australia


  • 500+ Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Find thousands of places to take your pet, including hotels, motels, and campgrounds across QLD, NSW, VIC, and ACT.
  • Dog-Friendly Beaches and Parks: Detailed information on the best dog exercise areas.
  • Detailed Pet-Friendly Maps: Easy-to-read maps showing all pet-friendly locations.
  • Tips for Dog-Friendly Sightseeing: Expert advice to make travelling with your pet a breeze.
  • Best Doggy Days Out: Discover new adventures and dog-friendly attractions.
  • Dog-Friendly Cafés, Pubs & Wineries: The essential guide for enjoying family outings with your furry friends.
Paperback, 256 pages
Publisher: Woodslane Press, July 2025

RRP: $34.99 available from all good bookstores and online.

About the Author

Carla Francis is a freelance writer and a devoted pet owner who can't stand to leave her pet behind when she travels! From charming cat cabins to cute cockatiel-friendly caravan parks, she has left no stone unturned in her quest to provide a definitive guide to pet-friendly accommodation on Australia's East Coast.

Find Pet-Friendly Australia on Facebook at www.facebook.com/petfriendlyaccom
and @petfriendlyaustralia on Instagram 

*** Win 1 of 4 "Travelling with Pets on Australia's East Coast" Guides ***
Total Prize Pool: $140 thanks to Woodslane Press

How to Enter:


1. Like & Share: Like and share the competition post (20/08/25) on our Facebook or Instagram page.

2. Answer the Question: In the comments, tell us: "Where would you love to spend your next holiday with your dog/s on Australia's East Coast?"

3. Use the Hashtag: Make sure to include the hashtag #petfriendlyaustralia in your answer.

4. Follow Us: To be eligible, you must either like our Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (@australiandoglover).

Key Dates & Eligibility:

  • Competition Starts: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 (7:00 pm AEST)

  • Competition Closes: Wednesday, September 3, 2025 (midnight AEST)

  • Eligibility: The competition is open to Australian residents only.

  • Entry Limit: You can only enter one time.


Winners & Prizes

  • Judging: This is a game of skill. Winners will be chosen based on the creativity and quality of their entry, not by chance. Entries will be judged by the Australian Dog Lover team. The most creative, informative, or useful response will be selected as the winner.

  • Claiming Your Prize: Winners will have 48 hours to claim their prize. Prizes not claimed within this period will be redrawn.

  • Delivery: Please allow 2-3 weeks for the book to be delivered directly from the publisher.


Important Note

By entering this competition, you agree to all the terms and conditions listed here.

Woman lying on yoga mat holds an oodle pup on her chest during a puppy yoga session


Puppy Yoga lands at Hyatt House South Melbourne in exclusive ST ARGO collaboration

Hyatt House South Melbourne, Australia’s first Hyatt House hotel, has announced an exciting partnership with premium Australian pet brand ST ARGO, further cementing its position as Melbourne’s leading pet-friendly hotel.

As part of the collaboration, guests travelling with their pets will enjoy an elevated experience with access to ST ARGO’s designer leads and gourmet dog treats, now available at the hotel. The partnership highlights Hyatt House South Melbourne’s commitment to creating a true “home away from home,” not only for extended-stay guests, but also for their four-legged friends.

To celebrate the launch, Hyatt House South Melbourne is hosting an invite-only Puppy Yoga Experience on 22 August. In collaboration with ST ARGO and organised by Puppy Yoga Melbourne, the exclusive event will take place at The Chandlery and will see guests take part in a guided puppy yoga session designed to stretch, relax, and strengthen bonds.
woman sits on a couch with her poodle in a pet-friendly room at the Hyatt House South Melbourne
The partnership builds on Hyatt House South Melbourne’s pet-friendly amenities, which include welcoming pets up to 30 kg, easy access to Melbourne’s most scenic walking areas such as Albert Park Lake and the Royal Botanic Gardens, and thoughtfully designed residential-style rooms with kitchenettes, spacious living areas and balconies. Together, these offerings ensure a seamless and comfortable stay for all guests.

General Manager of Hyatt House South Melbourne, Christian Sujer said the collaboration reflects the hotel’s mission to go beyond traditional accommodation.

“Hyatt House South Melbourne is designed to make guests feel at home, and for many, that means travelling with their pets. Partnering with ST ARGO allows us to extend that comfort through premium pet accessories and treats, while also celebrating the lifestyle our guests love. The Puppy Yoga experience is a fun and memorable way to highlight the unique sense of community we’re creating here at Hyatt House” said Christian.

two young women model ST ARGO walking belts with a sitting dog wearing a harness

Echoing this sentiment, Timothy Rogers, Co-Founder of ST ARGO, added 
ST ARGO was born from a love of design, pets, and lifestyle, and we’re thrilled to see those values come to life at Hyatt House South Melbourne. 

Together, we’re raising the standard of pet-friendly travel by offering stylish, high-quality products and experiences that reflect the way people want to live with their pets today.”

This partnership is the first of its kind for Hyatt House in Australia and highlights the hotel’s dedication to integrating local premium brands that align with its ethos of comfort, convenience, and community.


For more information about Hyatt House South Melbourne’s pet-friendly stays, visit https://www.hyatt.com.


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Chihuahua Floki wearing a light blue winter dog coat sits on her mum's lap


Floki the rescue Chihuahua inspires global kindness through storytelling

New children’s book celebrates compassion, friendship, and the magic of second chances.

Floki, a once needy rescue pup turned beloved storybook character, is wagging his way into hearts around the world. In a new children’s book authored by Di Hedges, Floki’s adventures champion empathy, resilience, and the power of community—inviting readers of all ages to see rescue animals not just as survivors, but as heroes.
“Floki’s story is more than a tale—it’s a movement,” says Di. 
“He represents every animal who’s been overlooked, and every child who needs to know they matter.”

Floki wasn’t your typical rescue (if there is such a thing) — he was a growly, confused little character when we first met. But through patience, love, and a lot of laughter, he blossomed into a joyful companion and a symbol of second chances.” adds Di.

Author Di Hedges reading her book Floki the story of a fluffy little rescue Chihuahua to her dog in the park
The book blends vibrant storytelling with real-world advocacy, featuring collaborations with rescue organisations, educators, and artists. 

A standout moment in Floki’s journey is a heartfelt donation made to Laurens Wing: The Fund for Animal Care, a U.S.-based rescue organisation that provides financial support for gravely ill or injured shelter animals—giving them access to extraordinary lifesaving care and helping them find loving adoptive homes. 

Thanks to one of their generous supporters, copies of the book were gifted to Laurens Wing to be shared with families adopting dogs—offering children a meaningful way to welcome their new furry friend and celebrate the joy of giving animals a second chance.

About Laurens Wing: The Fund for Animal Care

Laurens Wing is a non-profit organisation dedicated to saving the lives of shelter animals in critical need. By funding urgent medical treatment and supporting adoption efforts, they help transform suffering into hope — one life at a time

To learn more, visit www.laurenswing.org

About the Author

Close-up of author Di Hedges and her rescue Chihuahua Floki with his paw on her book



Di Hedges is a passionate advocate for rescue animals and holistic wellbeing. Through Floki’s story, she aims to foster compassion in children and inspire global change — one pawprint at a time.

Photography credit (all above): Allira Fontana Photography

Connect & Collaborate

To learn more, request review copies, or explore partnership opportunities, please contact dizey60@bigpond.com

book cover of Floki the fluffy little rescue Chihuahua authored by Di HedgesFollow Floki’s Journey on Facebook: Dizey Hedges and Instagram: @dizeyhedges 

Floki: The Story of a Fluffy Little Rescue Chihuahua is a heart-warming tale perfect for animal lovers of all ages filled with the most beautiful illustrations that will delight.

Paperback, 36 pages
Publisher:  Green Hill Publishing, 24 April 2025
For Ages: A lovely tale for little ones right through to Grandma & Grandpa.

Price: $17.60 from www.amazon.com.au

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Dog holds Kezza the kangaroo chew toy from Outback Tails with logo of Clear and Conscious Awards


Outback Tails Celebrates Five Wins at the 2025 Clean + Conscious Awards

Outback Tails, the Australian pet brand known for its ethical and sustainable dog accessories and care products, is proud to announce it has won five awards at this year’s Clean + Conscious Awards 2025.

The Clean + Conscious Awards recognise products that are safe, ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible, across categories spanning lifestyle, beauty, food, and pet care.

Award Wins

Best Pet Accessory Category

✔️ Kezza the Kangaroo Chew Toy (lead image) – Gold Winner + Editor's Choice

Best Natural Pet Care Category


✔️ Natural Dog Wash – Gold Winner + Editor's Choice

✔️ Paw & Skin Repair Balm – Bronze Winner

Dog sniffs box containing Outback Tails dog grooming products winners at the Clean and Conscious Awards 2025



“These awards are a huge recognition of our commitment to creating products that are not only loved by dogs and their owners, but also produced with sustainability, safety, and integrity at the core,” said Jessica Knight, Founder of Outback Tails
“It’s exciting to see our vision for natural, eco-conscious pet products resonating with both consumers and industry leaders.”
The Natural Dog Wash, in particular, received high praise from the judges. Rebecca Nichols, Clean + Conscious Awards Judge, noted:

“This shampoo thoroughly cleaned my dog’s coat removing greasy residue from ear medication and making a noticeable difference in coat colour. Post bath my dog’s fur remained clean, soft and smelling great for days. The packaging is beautiful from the box it arrived in through the bottle itself. 

The pump action makes using this shampoo super easy even when your hands are wet and holding a dog. It creates a good lather and spreads easily through the coat. I love how true to Australia this product is using native ingredients and local artists to create it. 

I am also inspired hearing of how many people and animals Outback Tails products help support and encourage. From donations to supporting local, these guys really care about Australia and the people and animals who live and breathe country!”

Outback Tails has built a reputation for designing high-quality, eco-friendly pet accessories and natural care products that reflect Australia’s unique wildlife and landscapes. The brand partners with Indigenous artists and community organisations, ensuring every product tells a meaningful story while giving back.

These awards further strengthen Outback Tails’ positioning as a trusted, innovative brand in the pet industry and provide retail partners with the opportunity to stock products that are officially recognised for excellence in sustainability and performance.

About Outback Tails

Outback Tails is an Australian brand dedicated to creating dog accessories and natural pet care products that celebrate Australia’s wildlife, support Indigenous art and culture, and are made with sustainability at their core. With global distribution across wholesale and retail channels, Outback Tails continues to expand its presence in markets seeking eco-conscious alternatives in the pet industry.

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Baskerville Classic Muzzle wins Best New Dog Product at Just For Pets Conference 2025

Company of Animals is proud to announce that its Baskerville Classic Basket Muzzle has been awarded Best New Dog Product at the Just For Pets Conference 2025.

The accolade carries particular weight within the industry, as the award was voted on directly by the independent Just For Pets stores in attendance, representing the voice of nationwide frontline retailers who know their customers’ needs best.

About the Just For Pets Network & Conference

As Australia’s largest network of independent pet retailers, Just For Pets unites almost 60 locally owned and operated stores under one brand, supporting members with training, supplier partnerships, marketing initiatives, and access to leading new products. 

The annual Just For Pets Conference is a cornerstone event for the trade, providing unrivalled opportunities for retailer – supplier collaboration, education, and product evaluation.

Baskerville Classic Basket Muzzle: Innovation Meets Functionality

Redesigned with an advanced Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) basket construction, the new Baskerville Classic Muzzle is four times stronger than the traditional plastic variant yet remains lightweight. Its ability to be reshaped in hot water ensures a custom fit per dog, delivering both comfort and durability.

Key welfare-driven features include:

✔️ Basket design that allows dogs to pant, drink, and play freely.

✔️ An anti-scavenging guard insert to prevent ingestion of harmful items such as food scraps, stones, wildlife, and coprophagia, while also aiding post-surgery care.

✔️ Enhanced padded nose protection and a secure easy-to-adjust neck strap for improved comfort.

Of particular importance in Australia, the Baskerville Classic Muzzle also helps protect dogs against accidental ingestion of 1080 baits, a common concern for pet owners in rural and regional areas.

Megan Nolan, Country Manager APAC, Company of Animals, said: 
"We are honoured to receive this recognition, especially knowing it was voted on by Just For Pets stores. These retailers are at the heart of our industry, and their endorsement demonstrates the genuine demand for practical, welfare-first solutions like the Baskerville Classic Muzzle. This award reinforces our ongoing commitment to innovation and supporting the needs of both dogs and their owners."

Why the Baskerville Classic Stood Out

In a competitive showcase of new products, the Baskerville Classic’s combination of strength, comfort, and practical welfare benefits resonated strongly with Just for Pets retailers.

From vet visits and public transport safety to scavenging prevention, post-surgery recovery, and critical protection against 1080 baits, the muzzle offers retailers a highly versatile solution with broad customer appeal.

Price & Where to Buy

RRP: $19.95-$37.95 at www.justforpets.com.au

About Company of Animals

Founded in 1979, Company of Animals pioneers humane pet training and behaviour-management solutions. With a deep commitment to animal welfare, the company develops products that equip owners and professionals alike to foster safer, happier, and more balanced relationships with pets. The Baskerville range continues this legacy by offering safe, effective, and user-friendly tools including the award-winning Classic Basket Muzzle.

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Three small rescue pups wear winter dog coats donated by the Petstock Foundation in Australia


The Petstock Foundation helps rescue pets in care beat the winter chill

Each year, it’s estimated nearly 400,000 [1] animals enter Australian shelters and pounds, including thousands of adoptable pets relying on stretched rescue groups for food, warmth and care.

Donations of essential supplies are vital to keeping them comfortable while they hold on to hope for permanent homes.

two small foster pups wear dog jumpers donated by the Petstock Foundation
With cold weather sweeping the country this winter, the Petstock Foundation in collaboration with Petstock suppliers donated hundreds of winter coats to help rescue pets stay warm while they wait to be adopted.


Naomi Mancktelow from the Petstock Foundation said, “One of the biggest challenges rescue charities face as temperatures drop is keeping pets warm. Winter is one of the toughest times for rescue groups and the animals in their care, with colder weather driving a critical need for warmth, supplies and support,” said Naomi.

“Through our No Nude Pets initiative, every winter coat donated by our partners helps to keep a rescue pet warm and comfortable as they await a second chance at finding a loving home – empowering a better future, one coat, one act of care at a time.”

Rising cost-of-living pressures are forcing more pet surrenders, resulting in more animals in care and increasing strain on organisations, carers, and already stretched resources.

“In addition to financial support, donations of essential products like winter coats and apparel make a real difference – bringing comfort to pets in need, relief to their carers and vital assistance to charities facing greater challenges over winter.”

31 rescue groups nationally received the winter coats donation, including:

A litter of rescue pups wearing dog coats and jumpers sleep in a large dog crate
VIC
: Victorian Bull Terrier Rescue Inc, Forever Friends Animal Rescue, Greyt Greys Rescue, Starting Over Dog Rescue and Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) 
QLD: DM Rescue, The Collective, Coffs Harbour, Runaway Bay, The Not Forgotten Ones and Capricorn Animal Aid
NSW: Pound Patrol, Lost & Found Pets Illawarra Inc, Fetching Dogs, Animal Welfare League, Whisker Woods Sanctuary, Central Coast Animal (SoCares Rescue) and Greyhound Rescue Mission
WA: WA Grey Hounds, Safe Bunbury and Greyhound WA
TAS: Dogs Home Tasmania, SA: Safe Pet Safe Families

“We are proud to support our mission of creating brighter futures for rescue pets.
“Knowing our coats can help make the colder months a little more bearable for vulnerable animals doing it tough is something we’re proud of,” said Naomi.
The Petstock Foundation is passionate about supporting the adoption of pets and over the past 11 years has helped find loving homes for more than 42,000 rescue pets across Australia and New Zealand. During the Foundation’s National Pet Adoption Month in March 2025, the Petstock Foundation raised $364,847 for rescue groups across Australia and New Zealand.

How to support the Petstock Foundation

✔️ Pet lovers can donate at the Petstock counter in-store or online www.petstock.com.au 100% of funds donated to the Foundation supports its charitable partners and projects like with all operating costs covered by the business.

✔️ Volunteer or foster through your local rescue group to provide temporary homes and care for pets in need

✔️ Donate essential supplies. Check in with your local rescue group first to see what’s most needed to keep pets warm and cared for.


1 PetRescue, https://www.petrescue.com.au/library/articles/petrescue-stats-on-pets-killed-in-pounds

About the Petstock Foundation

The Petstock Foundation is a registered charity that exists to empower a better future for pets and people. Since its inception in 2007, the Foundation has raised more than $14 million to date and has found homes for more than 42,000 rescue pets. Petstock Foundation is contributed to by the fundraising initiatives of the Petstock Group, donations by business partners and team members as they come together for the pets that inspire them. 100% of funds raised go towards the Foundation to support its charitable partners and projects with all operating costs covered by the business.