A Paws-itively Perfect Day at Retford Park: International Dog Day 2026

On Sunday, August 23rd, 2026, Retford Park in Bowral, NSW, will host its beloved annual International Dog Day celebration, an event dedicated entirely to honouring our canine companions.

Calling all dogs, hounds, pups, mutts, doggos, and pooches! The festivities will take place from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM within the historic estate’s breath-taking European-inspired gardens.

Held in celebration of James Fairfax, the renowned art collector and philanthropist known for his deep affection for his dogs, this special event invites you and your furry friends to join in on a joyful day out in the Southern Highlands.

Tail-Wagging Event Highlights

The event program is packed with a wide range of interactive activities designed for both dogs and their human companions:

✔  Free Garden Tours: Explore the lush, historic grounds of Retford Park on guided garden tours tailored specifically for pups and their humans.

✔  Puppy Paw Painting: Available all day long—let your creative pooch craft a one-of-a-kind paw-some keepsake to take home!

✔  Off-Leash Area & Stick Library: Pups can burn off extra energy in a dedicated off-leash play zone equipped with its very own stick and ball library.

✔  Agility Course & Competitions: Test your dog’s skills on the fun agility course set up on the main lawns, participate in friendly competitions, and enjoy impressive dog sport demonstrations.

✔  Market Stalls: Browse a selection of pet-themed vendor stalls offering artisanal treats, bespoke accessories, and specialised pet services.

Guidelines for Dog Owners

To ensure a safe, relaxed, and happy atmosphere for everyone attending, dog owners are asked to observe the following conditions of entry:

• Dog owners are responsible for their dog’s behaviour at all times.
• Dogs must remain on a lead at all times, except when inside the designated off-leash area. Retractable leads are strictly not permitted.
• Dogs must be fully vaccinated, well-socialised, and non-aggressive.
• Owners are required to clean up after their pets using the waste bins provided.
• Please maintain a safe and respectful distance between your dog and others.

Ticketing & Booking Details

General admission to all International Dog Day activities is included with a regular General Entry – Garden ticket for Sunday, August 23rd, 2026.

Admission prices are as follows:

• National Trust Members: FREE
• Adults: $17.00
• Concession: $15.00
• Children (under 16): FREE
• Family Ticket: $49.00

Tickets can be purchased at the door on the day; however, pre-booking online in advance is highly recommended as spaces are limited and booking fees apply.

For more updates and to secure your entry, visit www.nationaltrust.org.au.

Photo credit: All images supplied by National Trust (NSW).

Related Stories:

Dogs Day Out 2026 at Norman Lindsay Gallery – August 29

Too friendly for Border Force, this chocolate Lab puppy is now helping ease travel stress for Victorian passengers.

For many travellers, navigating an airport can be one of the most stressful parts of a journey. From security checks to rushing for boarding gates, pre-flight anxiety is a real challenge.

Avalon Airport Melbourne has decided to take a delightfully warm approach to easing travel stress—by introducing a four-legged recruit to their team!

Meet Maverick, an adorable chocolate Labrador puppy who has officially stepped into the role of Avalon Airport's new Wellbeing Ambassador.

From ABF Trainee to Terminal Superstar

Maverick’s journey to the airport terminal is a story in itself. He originally joined the Australian Border Force (ABF) Detector Dog Programme to train as a working dog. However, trainers quickly noticed that Maverick had a far stronger calling: his overwhelmingly cheerful demeanour, friendly nature, and love for people meant he was far better suited for public engagement than sniffing out contraband!

Recognising his unique talent for bringing joy to people, Avalon Airport welcomed him to their community-facing team instead.

What Maverick’s Day Job Looks Like

While Maverick won't be marshalling aircraft on the tarmac anytime soon, he will become a beloved, familiar face around Avalon’s terminals. His main mission is simple: offer a friendly greeting, meet families, soothe nervous fliers, and share a lighter side of air travel.

Beyond his terminal walk-throughs, Maverick will also serve as a digital ambassador. He will feature in regular behind-the-scenes social content—introducing travellers to different airport operations, hanging out with pilots and ground staff, and sharing helpful travel tips with plenty of pup personality.

Supporting Inclusive Travel

Maverick’s role isn't just about cute photo opportunities—it’s part of a broader push to make travel more accessible and stress-free. His presence complements Avalon Airport’s existing Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, adding another comforting, approachable touchpoint for passengers who need extra support or a soothing distraction.

Dave Moreland, Chief Operating Officer at Avalon Airport Melbourne, highlighted the impact even a small interaction can have:

"Travel is exciting, but for many people it can also be overwhelming: whether you're flying for the first time, travelling with young children or simply feeling anxious before a flight."

“Even a small positive interaction can make a real difference. Our newest team member is all about bringing smiles to people's faces.”

"We want Avalon to be known as an airport that's friendly, approachable and easy to travel through."

Named by the Community

To kick off his official welcome, Avalon Airport invited the public to help choose the puppy’s name. After a resounding community vote, the energetic chocolate pup was officially named Maverick—a fitting title for an ambassador ready to fly high in his new career!

Photo credit: Courtesy of Avalon Airport (supplied).

How One Boxer’s Legacy Brought Human-Grade Recovery Tech to Australian Dogs

Every great innovation in pet care starts with a single dog who meant the world to someone.

For Sydney-based pet wellness brand Pet Culture Co., that dog was Tyson—a spirited Boxer, a beach-walking shadow, and an irreplaceable member of founders Anne and Jesse’s family.

What began as a personal journey to give an ageing best friend a better quality of life has now evolved into a major milestone for Australian pet health. Pet Culture Co. has officially partnered with Hologenix, LLC®, the global creators of CELLIANT® infrared technology, to launch the Lively Longer™ range—bringing human-grade cellular recovery science directly to Australian dogs.

Born From Love: Tyson’s Legacy

As Tyson grew older, the lingering effects of earlier knee reconstructions gradually caught up with him. Anne and Jesse followed all the right steps—physiotherapy, targeted pain management, and joint supplements. While those helped, the subtle warning signs of age and joint stiffness began to creep in:

• Struggling and stiffening when standing up from rest

• Hesitating before jumping onto the family lounge

• Taking noticeably shorter, slower daily walks

Then came the day that broke their hearts: the morning Tyson could no longer join them on his beloved beach walk.

"That was the moment that stayed with us," recalls Anne, Founder of Pet Culture Co. "We had always invested in our own health and preventative care, yet when we searched for solutions to actively support Tyson’s joints and muscles, the options were limited to passive options." 

Driven to find a proactive solution, Anne did a deep dive into advanced health science. Her research led her to CELLIANT®, a patented infrared fabric technology widely trusted across human sports recovery, equine rehabilitation, and designated as a class 1 medical device in Australia. 

The question hit them immediately: If it’s good enough for us, why aren’t we using it for our dogs?

Recognising that no Australian dog brand was integrating this proven fabric science, Anne and Jesse set out to change the industry. Tragically, Tyson passed away just before he could see the range come to life, but his journey shaped every stitch of the brand. Pet Culture Co. is his legacy.

The Science of CELLIANT®: How Infrared Fabric Works

Unlike traditional fabrics or standard orthopaedic cushioning, CELLIANT® is a bio-responsive textile embedded with a proprietary blend of naturally occurring minerals.

When a dog rests on or wears the fabric, it absorbs the natural heat emitted by their body and converts it into therapeutic infrared energy. This infrared energy is reflected back deep into the muscle and joint tissue, helping to:

• Promote local blood circulation and oxygen delivery at a cellular level.

• Ease joint stiffness and support natural muscle recovery after exercise or rest.

• Provide active, continuous comfort for active working dogs, agility companions, and ageing seniors alike.

Because dogs care for us unconditionally, Pet Culture Co. believes we should care for them with the same high-standard technology we use for ourselves.

Pet Culture Co. x Hologenix: An Official Partnership

The official announcement of Pet Culture Co.’s partnership with California-based Hologenix, LLC marks a major step forward for canine wellness down under.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of our work has been seeing how naturally animals gravitate toward products made with CELLIANT infrared technology," said Seth Casden, founder and CEO of Hologenix, LLC. "We've seen this across applications ranging from equine therapy to dog beds, and because pets have no understanding of the technology itself, those responses have always been especially compelling. Pet Culture Co. shares our passion for improving quality of life through thoughtful innovation."

The upcoming Lively Longer™ range bridges high-end design with functional fabric science. The collection features:

• Wearable Infrared Products: Lightweight, uniquely designed gear created to keep dogs mobile and comfortable on the move.

• Recovery Beds & Rest Mats: Specially engineered to transform everyday nap time into a dedicated session of cellular repair and circulation support.

Giving Dogs More Good Years

For Anne and Jesse, every product created under the Pet Culture Co. name carries a deeply personal promise: to help dog owners across Australia avoid the helpless feeling of watching a best friend slow down.

"Our goal has always been simple—to create the products that will make a difference, the ones we wished we'd had for Tyson," says Anne. "We know what it's like to watch your best friend slow down and feel powerless to help."  

"Discovering CELLIANT® completely changed the way we thought about canine wellness. As our CELLIANT range succeeds to impact dogs' health, it means more dogs will be lively longer with products that really make a difference to their wellbeing. And that means everything."

Whether supporting a young dog recovering from weekend agility runs or helping a senior companion wake up with easier mornings, the Lively Longer™ range is built to deliver more comfortable days and many more walks on the beach.

Explore their range of infrared-infused beds, mats, wraps and apparel at petcultureco.com

Follow Pet Culture Co. on socials: Facebook and Instagram

HEALTH & WELLNESS HUB

Winter Health Risks for Senior Pets: Dealing with Arthritis & CCD

Learn how colder weather directly impacts seniors with existing joint issues. This guide offers proactive strategies for identifying arthritis pain, managing cognitive decline, and ensuring your older companion stays mobile and comfortable when temperatures drop.

Preventing Dog Limping: Spotting the Early Signs of Mobility Issues

Proactive care starts with observation. Discover how to identify subtle behavioural changes and physically examine your dog for early mobility imbalances before they progress into chronic lameness or severe injury.

Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Injury in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Understand the context behind Tyson’s injury. Explore the anatomy, symptoms, non-surgical management, and necessary post-operative recovery support (including supportive wear) crucial for rehabilitation following a CCL or ACL tear.

Australia’s Best Independent Pet Retailers Honoured at Just For Pets 20th Anniversary Awards

Whether you're after expert nutritional advice, high-quality gear, or just a friendly chat about your dog’s health, local independent pet stores remain the heartbeat of Australia’s pet community.

Celebrating a major milestone, Just For Pets recently marked 20 years of supporting independent pet retailers across Australia at their national conference at Melbourne’s RACV City Club. The highlight of the event? Recognising the outstanding family-owned businesses setting the benchmark for service, expertise, and community care.

Here are the standout independent retailers taking home Australia’s top pet industry honours this year—and why local dog lovers rate them so highly.

Retailer of the Year: PetCare Warehouse (Caringbah, NSW)

Owners: George & James Galopoulos

Voted directly by leading pet industry suppliers, brothers George and James took out the prestigious Just For Pets Retailer of the Year Award. Their family business has served the Sutherland Shire for over 40 years, building an unmatched reputation for expert customer service, product knowledge, and deep supplier relationships.

PetCare Warehouse Caringbah was also recognised as the number one independent retailer for both Royal Canin and Eukanuba, proving that decades of experience pay off when it comes to keeping local dogs healthy and thriving.

Member of the Year: Uncle Tom’s Pet & Poultry (Nerang, QLD)

Owners: James & Nicole Wood

Operating from their Nerang location since 2011, James and Nicole won the Just For Pets Member of the Year Award for their unwavering commitment to community connection, collaboration, and group support.

Known across Gold Coast pet circles for warm, personalised service and genuine passion, Uncle Tom’s exemplifies what makes independent family pet stores so irreplaceable to local pet owners.

Retailing Excellence Award: ClawsnPaws Pet Supplies (Montrose, VIC)

Owner: Rob Thompson

Awarded the Boehringer Ingelheim Retailing Excellence Award, ClawsnPaws was recognised for innovation, adaptability, and a positive vision for future growth.

Serving Victorian pet lovers since 2012, Rob recently expanded the business into a brand-new store in Montrose.

The award highlights his dedication to evolving alongside pet parents' needs while delivering high-grade advice and animal health solutions.

Why Independent Pet Retailers Matter to Australian Pet Parents

Behind every great independent store is a local family genuinely invested in your dog’s well-being.

"They are family-owned and independently operated businesses whose owners are personally invested in their customers, their teams, their communities and the future of the Australian pet industry," says Janine Yeates, Just For Pets Group Manager.

"What makes these awards particularly meaningful is that they recognise more than sales performance. They celebrate collaboration, strong supplier relationships, innovation, engagement and a willingness to continually improve."

Established in 2006, Just For Pets gives independent shop owners the collective buying power and training of a major network—allowing local shops to stay competitive while retaining the personalised, expert service dog owners rely on.

Summary of 2025–2026 Just For Pets Award Winners

Award Category	Winning Business	Location	Store Owners
Retailer of the Year	PetCare Warehouse	Caringbah, NSW	George & James Galopoulos
Member of the Year	Uncle Tom’s Pet & Poultry	Nerang, QLD	James & Nicole Wood
Boehringer Ingelheim Retailing Excellence	ClawsnPaws Pet Supplies	Montrose, VIC	Rob Thompson

Photo credit: Images (all) credited to Just For Pets Australia (supplied).

Why Aussies Say Great Pet Insurance Isn't Just About Price

When a pet emergency strikes, true value isn't measured in monthly premiums—it’s measured in compassion, reassurance, and support when it matters most.

When a pet is rushed to the vet, most owners aren't thinking about policy documents or comparison spreadsheets. They're sitting in a waiting room, hoping someone will guide them through one of the most stressful days of their pet's life.

That emotional reality sits at the heart of Pet Insurance Australia's latest national recognition: taking out top honours as the winner of Canstar's 2026 Most Satisfied Customers – Pet Insurance Award.

Real Aussie Voices, Real Experiences

Unlike awards judged by closed-door corporate panels, Canstar’s recognition is driven entirely by independent consumer research.

For the 2026 awards, Canstar surveyed 1,797 Australian pet insurance policyholders to evaluate 13 leading providers. Using statistical regression analysis rather than a simple overall score, Canstar measured the exact factors that drive real-world customer satisfaction.

For Pet Insurance Australia spokesperson Nadia Crighton, the consumer-led nature of the award makes it uniquely meaningful.

“This award means so much because it hasn't been decided in a boardroom or by a judging panel. It comes directly from the people who matter most: our customers,” says Crighton.

“When Australians trust us during some of the most emotional moments they'll experience as pet owners, knowing they've walked away feeling supported is the greatest recognition we could receive.”

Beyond the Policy: Why Customer Experience Wins

While price often dictates where pet owners begin their search, Canstar's research highlights a growing shift in consumer expectations: ultimate satisfaction is decided during the claims journey.

Crighton notes that the study's findings directly reflect what the Pet Insurance Australia team handles on the frontlines every day.

“Nobody contacts their insurer because they're having a great day,” she explains. “They're often sitting in a veterinary clinic after an accident, facing unexpected surgery, or worrying about whether they can afford life-saving treatment for a beloved family member.”

“Those conversations aren't just about insurance. They're about compassion, reassurance, and helping people navigate incredibly stressful moments.”

Supporting Care in an Era of Advanced Vet Medicine

As veterinary medicine rapidly advances across Australia, pets now have access to sophisticated diagnostic tools, specialist procedures, and life-saving treatments that were unimaginable a decade ago.

While these advancements dramatically improve health outcomes, they also highlight the vital need for an insurer that offers genuine, compassionate backing when medical bills arise.

“Anyone can sell a policy. But what truly matters is how you show up when your customer needs you the most,” says Crighton.

“We're incredibly proud that Australians have recognised not just what we offer, but how we care for people throughout the entire experience—this is the core of Pet Insurance Australia. As pet industry experts and pet lovers, customer experience is at the forefront of our business and the entire reason we exist.”

A Commitment to Putting Pet Parents First

Pet Insurance Australia views the Canstar win as a direct reflection of every single interaction—from helping prospective customers pick a plan to guiding families through critical claims.

“Every phone call represents someone who loves their pet. Every claim represents a family hoping for the best possible outcome,” Crighton adds.

“To know our customers believe we've made those moments easier is incredibly humbling, and we'd like to sincerely thank every Australian who took the time to share their experience.”

“Our focus has never simply been on insuring pets. It's about supporting the people who love them, giving them confidence when life takes an unexpected turn, and continually finding ways to improve the experience for every customer who trusts us with their pet's wellbeing.”

REAL-LIFE "WHAT IF" SCENARIOS & VET COST GUIDES

■ Self-Funding an Emergency: Read how one Aussie pet owner faced a sudden Haemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) crisis without insurance and had to fund thousands in emergency care straight out of savings.
Haemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) in Dogs: Real Emergency Vet Costs & Care »

■ Cost of Living Impact: Navigating unexpected veterinary bills during tough economic times and how Australian families are coping.
The Cost of Living Crisis & Unexpected Vet Bills in Australia »

■ Postcode Vet Bill Variations: Did you know vet costs can vary wildly depending on where you live? Discover the postcodes facing the highest bills.
Australian Postcode Lottery: How Where You Live Affects Your Vet Bills »

About the Canstar Most Satisfied Customers Awards:

Canstar's Most Satisfied Customers Awards are based on independent consumer research conducted through ISO-accredited research panels. For the 2026 Pet Insurance Award, 1,797 Australian pet insurance customers evaluated 13 pet insurance providers across the factors that most influence customer satisfaction. Rather than relying solely on an overall score, Canstar uses statistical regression analysis to determine which aspects of the customer experience have the greatest impact on satisfaction, creating an award based on what matters most to consumers. Source: Canstar Pet Insurance Awards.

Disclaimer: Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.

When Premium Surgical Expertise Meets a Life-Saving Mission: Introducing Dr. Ben Mielke

When top-tier surgical expertise meets a life-saving mission, every patient wins.

Finding out your dog needs complex surgery—whether it’s intricate airway correction, spinal treatment, or orthopaedic repair—is every pet parent’s nightmare. You want the absolute best surgical care available, delivered by someone who understands just how deeply you love your four-legged family member.

Enter Lort Smith Animal Hospital's newly launched Specialist Surgical Services, commencing August 10.

Led by European Board-Certified Specialist Surgeon Dr Ben Mielke, Lort Smith is expanding its in-house capabilities to care for complex neurosurgery, ENT (ear, nose, and throat), urogenital, and musculoskeletal cases under one trusted roof.

Even better? Choosing Lort Smith for your dog’s specialist care creates a powerful ripple effect: funds generated through these full-fee specialist services flow directly back into supporting Lort Smith’s essential community programs, helping Aussie families doing it tough keep their beloved pets healthy. High-end care for your dog directly fuels hope for another.

Meet the Champion: Dr Ben Mielke

Behind the impressive academic credentials and European board certification is a vet who genuinely loves the puzzle—and the passion—of surgical medicine.

“I have always been fascinated with how things work,” says Dr Ben. “As a surgeon, I am often able to fix things that are broken, remove things that are not where they are supposed to be, and help people in what can be really hard times. Understanding how the problem develops allows us to create solutions... The more I learn, the more I realise there is to learn.”

Dr Ben brings a special focus on training future surgeons, expanding community access to high-level care, and building a world-class surgical reputation at Lort Smith.

His deep expertise in complex ENT and soft tissue cases—including Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)—makes him a vital lifeline for owners of flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Frenchies who need expert airway intervention. (If you're caring for a flat-faced dog this season, be sure to catch up on our essential guide on Bulldog winter breathing warnings and BOAS symptoms).

Off-Duty Dr Ben: Lego, Chickens, and Cold Water Swims

When he’s not in theatre performing life-changing surgeries, Dr Ben is living full-throttle pet dad life at home with:

• Herman the Lab: A very friendly, slightly silly black Labrador named Herman who loves beach trips and has an unfortunate habit of trying to eat the kids’ Lego.
• The Backyard Crew: Three lively chickens—Frida, Hermione, and Rosemary—who spend their days digging up the garden and chasing the kids.
• A Chilly Routine: Every Saturday morning, rain or shine, you’ll find Dr Ben taking an icy dip in the bay with a childhood friend. (“We are not very brave, but we are always there!” he laughs).

Advanced Surgical Capabilities

Beginning August 10, Lort Smith’s specialist surgical unit will officially handle complex cases across:

Dr Ben conducting a BOAS
airway check on a Bulldog

✔ Neurosurgery: Advanced spinal and neurological conditions.

✔ ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat): Specialised airway surgery, including BOAS correction for brachycephalic breeds.

✔ Musculoskeletal & Traumatology: Intricate orthopaedic repairs, fracture care, and joint surgeries.

✔ Urogenital Surgery: Soft tissue repair and specialised urinary tract procedures.

How Pet Parents Can Access Specialist Care

If your dog is facing a complex surgical condition and you want specialist care backed by a legendary social mission, accessing Dr Ben and the team at Lort Smith is simple.

You can access the specialist service via:

1. Direct Contact: Call the Lort Smith team directly on (03) 9328 3021 to discuss or arrange a specialist surgical consultation.
2. External Vet Referral: Ask your primary care veterinarian to refer your dog directly to Lort Smith Specialist Services.
3. Internal Referral: Existing Lort Smith patients can be referred internally by their attending veterinarian.

All photography supplied by Lort Smith Animal Hospital.