The wait is over… the most popular calendar in the world is back!

The 2025 Australian Firefighters Calendar is set to make a splash with its unique theme of featuring adorable animals alongside the country's bravest heroes.

This year, the calendar showcases heart-warming moments that capture firefighters interacting with rescue animals.

From adorable kittens and cats, playful puppies and dogs, Australian wildlife and farm animals, each month features captivating photography that not only celebrates the courage of firefighters, but also raises awareness for animal rescue organisations. The 2025 calendars promise to warm hearts while supporting vital causes.

Since its launch in 1993, the calendar has donated over $3.5 million dollars to charities across Australia and the world. The calendar's proud history of supporting animal refuges and Australian Wildlife in the past continues. Australia's Rural Firefighters and children suffering from Cancer will also benefit from donations.

The Australian Firefighters Calendar is found on the walls of supporters in over 90 countries around the world. The firefighters from the calendar are in hot demand to appear on some of the most popular TV shows and magazines around the world. From Germany to Taiwan, to the US and Japan, the firefighters from the calendar use their popularity to continue the message of conservation for Australian Wildlife.

Editions

Over 25 Australian firefighters have come together for the month-long photoshoot to make this year's 5 editions. Firefighters from aviation, military and urban fire services have once again produced the most talked about calendar photos for the 2025 editions of the Australian Firefighter Calendar.

Each month of the 5 different calendar editions reveals a different firefighter and their heart-warming bond with some of Australia's most adorable animals. From cuddly koalas to playful kittens, these visuals capture the compassion that these firefighters stand for both in and out of uniform.

Due to the popular demand of the past editions, the Dog, Cat, Horse, Mixed Animal and Hero Calendars will be back.

Charity Organisations

Some of the Charities supported by the 2025 Australian Firefighters Calendar include:

✔️ Rural Fire Service (CAVFA)

✔️ Wildcare Inc

✔️ Fauna Rescue of

✔️ Queensland Koala Society

✔️ Safe Haven Animal Rescue

✔️ Best Friends Felines

✔️ Kids With Cancer Foundation

✔️ Native Animal Rescue

✔️ Healing Hooves Horse Therapy

Charity Project: Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital

US-based Greater Good Charities is using its global reach to support an organisation close the calendars heart.

This year, the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital has become a recipient of the Greater Good's grant application program. The funds from this program will provide vital support to the BBWH. 

Greater Good Charities is proud to support the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, recognising the vital role it plays in rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned wildlife back into native habitat. Through their generous contributions, Greater Good Charities helps ensure that the hospital has the necessary resources to provide expert medical care and a safe haven for native animals in distress. This partnership not only enhances the hospital's ability to care for its patients but also fosters greater awareness about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting our natural habitats. Together, they are making a meaningful impact on the Australian ecosystem and the lives of countless animals in need.

"Greater Good Charities delivers crucial funding to provide life-saving medical care to wildlife in desperate need. These grants directly address critical situations, ensuring that injured or sick animals receive the care they need to survive and thrive". Denise St. Jean – Executive Vice President, Communications, Greater Good Charities.

This year will be the 5-year anniversary of the devastating Black Summer Bushfires that devastated Australia. It is reported that 3 billion native animals perished.

This event shocked people around the world, and it was the catalyst to build Australia's only mobile wildlife hospital (Matilda). The support the BBWH received from around the globe has literally provided them the vehicle to be able to save wildlife where the supported is needed.

"The story of the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital has reached a global audience. This has been achieved through a TV series showcasing the work of our incredible veterinary team. The Series "Wildlife Rescue Australia" has aired in Australia, Japan, Canada and now on National Geographic Wild in the US" – Dr Stephen Mills, Founder and CEO, Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital.

"I am truly grateful for the support of The Australian Firefighters Calendar and the Greater Good Charities. At Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, our mission is to treat sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife, with the goal of returning them to their natural habitats. This generous support allows us to continue saving Australian wildlife and making a lasting difference." – Dr Bree Talbot,  Head Wildlife Veterinary Surgeon, Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital.

Price & Where to Buy:

RRP: $24.00. Grab your favourite at www.australianfirefighterscalendar.com before they all disappear! 

You can follow on Facebook: @AustralianFirefightersCalendar (686k) and on
Instagram (389k) @australianfirefighterscalendar

MEDIA RELEASE, 20th October 2024

Discover the new Cat Treats range that’s shaking up treat time across Australia!

Imagine this: A treat that’s not only packed with lip-smacking flavour, but also loaded with protein to fuel endless purrs and top-tier cat-titude all day long! 

What is this treat we hear you shout? It’s the all-new Breeder’s Choice Tasty Cat Treats range. That’s right… Breeder’s Choice not only make the best cat litter around; they also deliver the goods when it comes to delicious treats.

Crafted with love in regional Australia, these irresistible treats are made from 100% Aussie-sourced meat — no artificial flavours, colours, or preservatives. Just pure, natural goodness that your feline friend won’t be able to resist and will be demanding more after the first bite.

Not only are the treats cat shaped (which is a very cute touch), with four scrumptious flavours to try, these treats will have your cat salivating for more. Treat time just got a whole lot more exciting in the feline world! The range includes 120g canisters in the following flavours:

✔️ Beef with Herb and Catnip

✔️ Chicken & Blueberries with Catnip

✔️ Chicken & Tuna with Egg

✔️ Duck with Rosemary with Catnip

But don’t take our word for it! Here’s what some of our fans have to say:

Chelsea – Crazy Cat Café, Gold Coast

Photo: @crazy_cat_cafe

“When I shook the canisters of treats, all the cats ran over like a furry stampede to see what was on offer. I dished up each flavour and all the cats devoured each and every little cat shaped treat. 

These cats are picky, so I was so surprised and impressed all at the same time. 

Breeder’s Choice have definitely delivered on these treats, and we will continue to give them to the cats- they were clearly very yummy. Crazy Cat Café approved, no crumbs left behind.”


Amy – Noosa Country Cat Hotel, Sunshine Coast

“We always love to try anything new on the market for cats and when we saw Breeder’s Choice had launched a cat treat range we were so excited to test them, as we have been avid users of their litter for years. It’s great because there are four flavours, so something for all the different cats tastes. I must say, the Chicken and Blueberries were an instant hit, closely followed by all the other flavours. 

Photo (supplied): @noosa_country_cat_hotel

These will now be a staple treat we will be serving up for our cat guests… delicious and healthy… what more could they want?”

A Game-Changer in Cat Treat Packaging: Eco-Friendly Canisters!

Our treat canisters are leading the charge in sustainable pet care. These innovative containers are made from 70% recycled materials, making them the first of their kind in the cat treat market.

But that’s not all—60% of the packaging is crafted from post-consumer paper board, and we use water-based adhesive to seal the packs, ensuring that every aspect of our packaging is as eco-conscious as possible. 

It’s a small change that makes a big difference for pets, people and planet.

A word from Ginger, Breeder’s Choice Ambassador

Paws up, fellow fur-iends! As a savvy cat who's all about quality treats, let me tell you why Breeder's Choice Treats are the ultimate snack for us!

First off, they're proudly Australian-made, which means we're supporting our local businesses while getting the tastiest, most paw-some treats around. 

And the best part? They're packed with all-natural ingredients and loaded with protein—perfect for keeping us strong, healthy, and always ready for the next epic adventure (or nap... whatever comes first).

So, next time you're eyeing that treat shelf, just give your human a little nudge and let them know —  Breeder's Choice Treats are where it’s at!

Where to Buy:

RRP: $6.99. Breeder’s Choice Tasty Treats range are now available in store and online at Woolworths, IGA and selected pet retailers.

‍To find out more, head to www.breederschoicecats.com.au

About Breeder’s Choice Cats

For over three decades, Breeder’s Choice has been keeping Aussie cats and kittens content, providing them with high-quality, sustainable products that also care for our planet. As Australia’s #1 cat litter brand, we take pride in our commitment to both your feline family and the environment.

Our mission is simple: to create products that are not only good for your cat but also kind to the earth.

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th October 2024

Partner vs Pet: Aussie animal lovers confess who comes out on top as results from Dr Chris Brown's National Pet Census are revealed

Results from Dr Chris Brown’s Drooly Important Pet Census released today 30,000 Aussie pet owners took part in Dr Chris’ pet census.

Almost three-quarters of Australian pet owners have confessed they turn to their animals instead of their human partner for emotional support, according to the results of Dr. Chris Brown’s National Pet Census.

Dr. Chris Brown’s Drooly Important Pet Census which runs in collaboration with the vet’s pet information and product site Drool by Dr. Chris Brown, has revealed a number of heart-warming (and at times, hilarious) findings that firmly place the furriest family member as the most important relationship we have in our lives.

A remarkable 30,000 Australians completed the census which also revealed our take on pet sleeping arrangements, hygiene habits and the cost of living effects impacting many Australians. 

Interestingly though, despite the cost pressures, 81% of pet parents aren’t spending any less on their furry friends.

The quirky role they play in our lives also makes for interesting reading. A remarkable 58% of us share a bed with pets. While another 18% sleep in the bedroom! And we’re certainly attached with 32% admitting to kissing on the lips!

In the most controversial statistic, 40% people admitted to putting their dog’s poo bag in someone else’s bin. Whilst ’60% of people lied’ Chris joked…

In a heart-warming twist post-Covid, more people, 49%, found their furry family member through a shelter, a vet hospital or a rescue organisation compared to 43% from a breeder.

“The results of this year’s Pet Census are in and wow. I knew we cared deeply about our best friends. But I didn’t expect just how integral pets are to Australian’s health and happiness.” Dr Chris said. 

“When you look at the data in detail, you realise just how dependent we are on them. They complete us. They also reveal our quirky side!”

First launched in 2016 after Dr. Chris became frustrated that not a single question was asked about the nation’s pets during that year’s National (human) Population Census, the popular vet immediately took to social media to launch his own. This year’s survey marks the third time Dr. Chris has run the online survey.

“In a country with such a large (and loved) pet population, we need accurate data to ensure our pet’s needs are accounted for by councils and governments. Pets who are well socialised and exercised are a joy to own. 

Yet only 38% of pet parents felt there were enough exercise options in their local area” Dr Chris said.

According to the data, 26% of people also requested more pet-friendly cafes and restaurants above all else. While a remarkable 80% of people were in favour of pets being able to fly in the cabin of domestic flights.

“I’d encourage all councils and government bodies to take a look at the vital role pets play in our society. They clearly offer emotional support, ease loneliness and make us happier and healthier” Dr Chris said. “They should be rewarded for this positive health impact and not regulated out of our lives”.

A summary of Dr Chris’ 2024 Pet Census’ most interesting stats include:

• 80% of respondents think that pets should be allowed in the cabin of domestic flights;
• 73% of pet owners know the exact date of their furry friend’s birthday and celebrate it every year;
• 58% of respondents say their pet sleeps on the bed;
• 82% said it would NOT be a deal breaker if their partner insisted on having their pet sleep in the bed;
• 32% of pet owners kiss their animal on the lips;
• And, when it comes to the most popular religion for Aussie animals, 45% of owners say their pet believes in the “snack god”!

“Even though I love my TV hosting roles, my first love is being a vet and I still practice to this day,” Dr. Chris said. “I’d encourage my fellow vets right around the country to take a close look at the results of this year’s Pet Census to help them gain a better insight into how our furry friends are living. It’s all about keeping our Aussie pets happy and keeping Australia pet-friendly!”

About Drool by Dr. Chris Brown

 

dr0ol.pet is the home of the popular vet’s pet insights and products, which have quickly become the cult, must- have treats, washes and care products (for ears, anxiety and gut health) for Australian dogs and cats. 

Bowing to demand, the range is now available in over 450 Petbarn and Petstock stores and exported overseas. 

Most importantly for Chris, he still works as a vet at his beloved Bondi Junction Vet Hospital where the inspiration for his social posts, products and his award winning TV show Bondi Vet have come from.

MEDIA RELEASE, 10th October 2024

Pet Obesity is on the Rise: A Growing Concern for Australian Pet Parents

For World Pet Obesity Awareness Week (7-13 October 2024), Pet Insurance Australia is highlighting an urgent concern facing pet owners nationwide: the increasing pet obesity rate. Now is the time to shed a spotlight on our pets' bulging problems!

"According to the latest 2024 PetSure Pet Health Monitor, obesity remains a prevalent issue for pets, with serious health implications," Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. "The report reveals that more than half of all pets in Australia are overweight or obese, a condition that can significantly reduce their quality of life and lifespan."

The Social Media Influence: Fat Cats Are No Laughing Matter

Social media platforms have contributed to a rising trend in portraying overweight pets, particularly cats, as humorous or cute. While these "fat cat" posts may garner likes and shares, they obscure the real dangers associated with pet obesity.

"Sadly, this phenomenon normalises unhealthy weight, making it harder for pet owners to recognise when their pets are at risk," Crighton says. 

"An overweight pet is a sick pet, and owners need to understand the future repercussions of allowing their beloved furry family members to remain overweight."

The Dangers of Obesity in Pets

Obesity is far from just a cosmetic issue for pets.

"Overweight pets face an increased risk of numerous health issues, including diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers."

For example, arthritis treatment can cost up to $12,387 annually, while cancer treatments can range as high as $37,133*.

"These conditions shorten a pet's lifespan and lead to significant physical discomfort and emotional distress for both pets and owners."

How to Tell if Your Pet is Overweight

One key challenge for pet owners is recognising when their pets are overweight. Veterinarians suggest using the Body Condition Score (BCS), a visual and tactile assessment that ranks a pet's body composition on a scale of 1 to 9.

"Ideally, a pet should have a BCS of 4 or 5. You should be able to feel your pet's ribs without excess fat, and when viewed from above, your pet should have a noticeable waist," Crighton says. 

"Your veterinarian will be able to tell you if your pet falls in these ranges and what steps you can take if your pet is exhibiting any signs of obesity."

Preventing Pet Obesity: Simple Steps

Prevention is the best strategy when it comes to pet obesity.

✔️ Balanced Diet: Ensure your pet receives a nutritionally balanced diet appropriate for their size, breed, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding or giving too many treats.

✔️ Exercise: Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Whether it's daily walks for dogs or playtime for cats, keeping your pet active helps burn calories and improve overall health.

✔️ Portion Control: Measure your pet's food and follow the feeding guidelines provided by your vet. Avoid feeding human food, which often contains excess calories and unhealthy ingredients.

When Do I Need To See a Vet?

If you suspect your pet is overweight or obese, it's crucial to seek veterinary advice. They will happily help you beat your pet's bulge with some great unjudgmental advice to ensure the health of your pet.

"A vet can provide a tailored diet and exercise plan to help your pet return to a healthy weight," Crighton says. "Early intervention can prevent the development of serious conditions such as diabetes or arthritis, ultimately saving on treatment costs and improving your pet's quality of life."

The Importance of Routine Monitoring

Regular vet check-ups are essential for monitoring your pet's weight and overall health.

"Delaying visits due to cost or time constraints can intensify underlying health problems," Crighton suggests. 

"Early detection of weight-related issues can lead to better outcomes and reduce long-term veterinary expenses. With the current cost of living affecting many Australian pet lovers, getting on top of issues like obesity can be a game changer for your pet's health and your veterinary expenses, particularly as your pet ages."

* 2024 PetSure Pet Health Monitor

MEDIA RELEASE, 8th October 2024

Related Stories:

10 Tips to Avoid Pet Obesity

How to Care for your Senior Cat

Swaggle launches search to find Australia's Happiest Pet

Australia’s happiest online pet store, Swaggle, is on the hunt for Australia’s happiest pet! 

In order to find the pinnacle of pet happiness, Swaggle is asking Australians to nominate their beloved companions for a chance to see their pet star on their own billboard and go in the draw to win $5,000* worth of Swaggle products.

Launching on Tuesday 1st October 2024, Aussie pet parents are encouraged to submit a video, photo or written entry that answers how they go above and beyond to spoil their pet and showcases their pet at its happiest via the Swaggle website. 

Whether it’s a puppy being pampered at a day spa, a cat eating a meal worthy of a Michelin star or a feathered friend in its pimped-out cage, Swaggle wants to see how you spoil your pet, the more extravagant the better.

Veterinarian Dr Abby Main (MD DVM BBiomedSc) hopes that this search leads to more Australians openly sharing their secrets on how to help their pet get their Swaggle on, raising rates of pet happiness across the country.

“Since the pandemic, we have seen a rise in the rates of pet anxiety and the associated behavioural problems alongside it [1]. Swaggle’s search for Australia’s happiest pet shines a light on the day-to-day choices we can make to improve our pet’s lives,” Dr Main said.

“Pet happiness is paramount to a happy home. When your pet is happy it leads to a reduction in destructive behaviour, a healthier pet and may reduce vet bills, and ensures your pet lives a longer, happier life.”

Photo Credit: Swaggle Facebook page

On October 21, the Swaggle team will select the top entrants based on creativity and allow the public to vote for who they think is Australia’s happiest pet on its Instagram, ensuring everyone can get in on the fun and indulge in pet happiness. 

Swaggle will then crown Australia’s happiest pet on November 11, announcing the lucky winner to the public on a billboard worthy of any celebrity.

Chad Burke, Head of Swaggle said: “Delivering pet happiness is a core part of Swaggle’s DNA and Swaggle is proud to put pet happiness at the forefront of its business model. I am really excited to see the competition entries and discover how Australian’s make their pet happy every day. I couldn’t think of a more deserving billboard than Australia’s happiest pet!”

Swaggle, which launched in January this year, is an online pet store on a mission to deliver pet happiness. A swaggle is defined as the exact moment your pet displays happiness through joyful movement and, as such, the brand was created to provide a new level of personalisation to help pets live their lives to the fullest.

Australians are known to love their pets, with 98% of owners [2] saying that their pets have had a positive impact on their life. Now it’s time for owners to showcase how they repay the favour.

Parents of Australia’s happiest pet hopefuls can enter the competition at www.Swaggle.com.au/happiest-pet. 

Voting will take place on Swaggle’s Instagram @swaggle_pets.

1 National Library of Medicine, Veterinary Science, 2023

     1 Report can be read in full here
2 Victorian Pet Census 2023
    1.1 Report can be viewed here
    1.2 The Census was held in July 2023 and received 37,460 responses (2).

About Swaggle

Australia's happiest online pet store. Swaggle exists to deliver pet happiness to every doorstep with a wide range of Australia's leading brands, personalised product suggestions and free vet advice. Swaggle is a new business aiming to make you and your pet's life easier, so they can live life to the fullest.

Swaggle is home to 100 categories of products from over 190 brands, including Royal Canin, Advance, Ivory Coat, Black Hawk, Nexguard Spectra, Lifewise and Hill’s Science Diet, catering to dogs, cats, birds, small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, and fish.

Swaggle has partnered with Flybuys to collect 2 points per $1 you spend on Auto-Delivery orders, and 1 point per $1 you spend on other purchases.^
Swaggle also offers pet insurance, which is underwritten and Issued by Guild Insurance.

* Open to Aus residents 18+. Starts: 7 am AEST 01.10.24. Ends: 11:59 pm AEDT 20.10.24. Total prize value = $7K. 5 finalists selected based on creativity & notified on Instagram 22.10.24. 1 x winner selected based on public vote 3 pm 23.10.24. Winner must be available for billboard shoot in their closest capital city between 25.10.24 – 30.10.24. See full t&cs here.

^ Excludes delivery fees, insurance and paid vet services. Flybuys points cannot be redeemed at Swaggle.

MEDIA RELEASE, 1st October 2024

Ticking Time Bomb: Urgent Warning as Tick Season Hits

As the tick season escalates across Australia, Pet Insurance Australia urgently advises pet owners to take immediate steps to safeguard their beloved pets from the lethal paralysis tick. 

The unusual combination of warm and wet weather conditions has set the stage for what could be one of the most severe tick seasons in recent memory. With thousands of pets in jeopardy, swift action is imperative.

"Paralysis ticks can be fatal if left untreated," warns Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia. This season, with the current weather conditions, veterinary clinics are expected to see a surge in tick outbreaks across the country. Pet owners need to be not just vigilant, but proactive in prevention. Your actions can make a significant difference in your pet's safety."

Image of a female Paralysis Tick
 (Ixodes Holocyclus)

The Australian paralysis tick is one of the most dangerous parasites affecting dogs and cats. 

When a tick attaches to an animal, it injects a toxin that can cause life-threatening paralysis, which often starts with weakness in the back legs, a change in voice, or excessive drooling. 

The condition can rapidly escalate, affecting breathing and leading to death if not treated in time.

Current Tick Season: A Growing Threat

According to recent data from veterinary clinics across Sydney, the number of reported tick paralysis cases has already surpassed last year's figures*. Areas close to bushland or the coast, such as Terrey Hills, Turramurra, and the Blue Mountains, are seeing a surge in cases. The University of Queensland's research also highlights that spring, particularly in Sydney's northern beaches, is the peak danger period for ticks.

"Now is the time for pet owners to take action and ensure their pets are safe," Crighton says. "Tick conditions are expected to increase drastically over the next few months."

According to the 2024 Pet Health Monitor report by PetSure, tick paralysis is a significant worry for pet owners in Australia, particularly in regions like New South Wales. The report underscores the escalating treatment costs, with average claims for tick paralysis treatment exceeding $1,000 for dogs and $900 for cats. 

However, in severe cases, costs have skyrocketed to more than $5,000 for cats and over $24,000 for dogs*.

This season is expected to be particularly harsh due to a longer and earlier tick season, with peak months between August and January.

The report emphasises the importance of prevention, urging pet owners to use tick preventatives and regularly check their pets for ticks, as treatment can be costly and potentially life-threatening. Proactively using products such as tick collars, spot-on treatments, or chewable tablets can significantly reduce the risk.

"Given these findings, it's critical for pet owners to stay vigilant and consult with their vets to ensure their pets are protected throughout this extended tick season."

Prevention Tips

To protect pets during this heightened tick season, Pet Insurance Australia recommends the following preventive measures:

✔️ Use Tick Preventatives: Administer regular preventatives such as chewable tablets or tick collars. Many products offer up to three months of protection.

✔️ Regular Tick Checks: Inspect your pets daily, especially after outdoor activities. 

Run your fingers through their fur and focus on areas like the neck, ears, and under the collar. This simple yet crucial practice can help you detect and remove ticks before they cause harm.

✔️ Tick-Friendly Areas: Avoid high-risk areas such as bushlands and tall grass. If you live in or near these areas, ensure your yard is well-maintained and free from debris that could harbour ticks.

✔️ Veterinary Care: If you notice signs of tick paralysis, such as wobbliness, difficulty breathing, or a change in voice, seek veterinary care immediately. 

Paralysis ticks can cause rapid deterioration, and treatment with antiserum may be necessary.

Crighton emphasises, "Tick prevention is not just an option—it's necessary during this critical season. 

We urge all pet owners to act before it's too late."

* https://www.mosmanvet.com.au/tick-season-has-begun-is-your-pet-protected/
* https://petsure.com.au/pet-health-monitor/

MEDIA RELEASE, 1st October 2024

Related Stories:

How to Protect your Cat from Tick Paralysis in Australia

Curiosity Poisons the Cat: Common Cat Toxicities

Cat Flea Protection: Starting from Scratch!