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Introducing Oscar & Friends: Elevating Pet Accessories with Style and Affordability

Drawing from a four-decade legacy within the fashion industry, Oscar & Friends was born from a notable gap in the market for affordable yet fun pet accessories. 

The new brand emerged as a natural evolution for the Accessory Company Group, with the team focusing their expertise now on our four-legged friends, keeping up with the latest seasonal trends and unwavering attention to detail, especially in functionality and finishes.


Launching into the market, Oscar & Friends is the latest elevated pet accessories brand to hit the shelves, ensuring that your dog or cat is the trendiest furry friend on the block. 

The current range is available in a range of sizes to accommodate the smallest of Dachshunds to the large Great Danes, including collars, leads, harnesses, bandanas and fashionable bow ties which all come in multiple colourways so you can deck your furry friend out in matching sets.


To tie in with your taste in fashion, Oscar & Friends have various prints such as blotched floral, teal stripes, summer swirls, and confetti - not to mention, a fun assortment of affordable toys and high quality grooming products.

Designer of Oscar & Friends, Julia Hemingway explains: "We take our quality very seriously, with every accessory undergoing thorough testing for durability and functionality to ensure our pets receive the finest and most comfortable products. The namesake, Oscar, a cherished puppy within the organisation, served as the inspiration behind the brand name. 

We now offer a wide range of products for your cats and dogs, including tethering, toys, grooming and home, with plans to expand into a comprehensive range of pet categories for all species big and small.”

Where to Buy:

Designed in Melbourne, the range is available currently from Big W online and will be expanding further, launching into Woolworths stores and online from the start of December 2023, just in time to fill up your cat’s  (and pooch's) Christmas stocking.

MEDIA RELEASE, 27th November 2023




Don’t be fooled by appearances! Companion Animal Network Australia warns pet lovers to watch out for scammers in clever disguise!

Is this rescue group for real? 

During Scams Awareness Week 2023 (27 Nov – 1 Dec), leading animal welfare charity Companion Animal Network Australia (Australia CAN) is warning pet lovers to watch out for scammers in clever disguise.

The theme for this year's Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) campaign is “Impersonation Scams,” delivered for the first time by the newly established National Anti-Scam Centre, built on the work of Scamwatch to make Australia a harder target for scammers.

Australia CAN has again partnered with Puppy Scam Awareness Australia (PSAA) to help animal lovers identify imposter rescue organisations and breeders, and to avoid pet scams that continue to cause heartbreak and anger.

“Scammers are professional crooks, and it can be difficult to distinguish between what is real or a scam,” said Trish Ennis, CEO of Australia CAN.

According to ACCC’s Targeting Scams (April 2023) report, anecdotally about 80% of all scams reported to Scamwatch include some form of impersonation of a legitimate entity. Scammers can impersonate any organisation or brand, and impersonation scams can be received through a variety of channels.

In 2022 (1 January – 31 December)Scamwatch received 1,684 reports of pet scams with losses of $2.3 million, according to ACCC data.

An ACCC Media spokesperson told Australia CAN, “While most pet scams pertain to puppies, in 2022 we saw an increase in kitten scams. Other pets commonly used by scammers are birds and fish.”






With scammers continually developing new ways to fool people, pet lovers need to increase their vigilance in checking for those little clues that can alert us that something is a scam, warned Ms Ennis.

“We encourage pet lovers to learn how to spot a puppy scam and avoid the heartbreak, loss of money and in some cases, potentially having to surrender their pet to the shelter,” she said.

PSAA key support group for victims of pet scams

Puppy Scam Awareness Australia is a key support group for victims of pet scamming and is dedicated to bringing awareness about the thousands of pet scamming syndicates who prey on pet shoppers, helping puppy shoppers spot a scammer and assisting those that have been scammed.

“We don’t just report scammers, we shut down their online presence immediately, and help victims try and get their money back,” said PSAA’s founder Sandy Trujillo.

Since 2021, PSAA received reports relating to more than 1,500 Australian fraudulent bank accounts, 6,000 websites and over 8,000 social media pages/groups and profiles.
“People are easier to scam when they act on emotion and that’s especially true for pet lovers who want a furry friend,” said Ms Trujillo.




“The more who fall the more scammers can make. They constantly reinvent themselves so unsuspecting customers fall quicker. Pet scams have slowed down since the lockdowns and the financial pressures most people find themselves under these days, but unfortunately, we are still getting reports of victims coming through, roughly three a week. They don't find us until it's too late.”


PSAA has launched a Pet Transport and Breeders Directory to help validate and help protect businesses from scammers stealing their intellectual property. PSAA also works with breeders whose IDs get stolen to restore their reputation, added Ms Trujillo.

“Most breeders are now dubious of strangers coming over and stealing their pups,” she said. “It's not always possible to find a breeder in your state, too, so people are choosing to buy interstate. That's how most get caught in scams.”

Scam prevention resources

✔️ How to spot a pet scam: australiacan.org.au/pet-projects/puppy-scams

✔️ For tips to avoid fake websites and a list of fraudulent websites: www.puppyscamawarenessaustralia.com.au

✔️ For a guaranteed pet to welcome into your family, contact an Australia CAN member in your state: australiacan.org.au/who-we-are

✔️ If you think you are scammed, contact your financial institution right away. For more information www.scamwatch.gov.au

Follow CANA on FacebookInstagram and LinkedIn
#ScamAwarenessWeek2023 #ScamWatch #kittenscams #petscams #scams

About Companion Animal Network Australia (Australia CAN)

Companion Animal Network Australia (Australia CAN) is a registered charity representing the companion animal welfare work of our six member agencies across the country, including Animal Welfare League QLD, Animal Welfare League SA, Lort Smith (VIC), Sydney Dogs and Cats Home, Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania and Saving Animals From Euthanasia Inc (WA).

Together, our members provide rescue, shelter, re-homing, fostering, health care and enrichment services to more than 50,000 animals every year. Through national campaigns, partnerships and initiatives, we celebrate the human-animal bond and promote responsible pet ownership.

We use our national voice to campaign for the humane treatment of all companion animals and we rally support for programmes that deliver high welfare standards. Australia CAN celebrates the human-animal bond and promotes responsible pet ownership through national campaigns, partnerships and initiatives, including the Rent with Pets and Pets in Aged Care programs.

To discover more, visit www.australiacan.org.au

MEDIA RELEASE, 20th November 2023




Who wants to join the Bondi Vets in surgery this summer? 

Plus 3 Future Vet Kids Camp Scholarships available, courtesy of PetSure Australia!

Being a veterinarian can be a rewarding, but also a dirty job! 
Squeezing anal glands, cleaning out squirmy worms and dodging smelly farts – the stuff dreams are made of for animal loving kids, at least those with a cast-iron stomach and a can-do attitude!

Future Vet Kids Camp is an exciting veterinary-inspired face-to-face and virtual school holiday program that encourages responsible pet ownership, the profession of veterinary medicine and a love and appreciation of all animals and their habitats!




The 5-day program is aimed at kids aged 9 to 16 years, designed by veterinarians and run by vet twins Drs Audrey and Alison Shen from the Bondi Vet TV show.

The Sydney Camp will be held at Waverley College (in Waverley) on January 8 - 12, 2024 and 15 – 19, 2024. A Virtual Online Camp will run concurrently to the HQ Sydney Camp with the ability for kids to join the classroom virtually and participate with questions in real time.

Once again, pet health company PetSure is awarding three youngsters a scholarship (valued at $655) to attend the January 2024 face-to-face camp in Sydney!

Campers will learn about different animal-related professions, genetic diseases, pet nutrition, exotic animals, surgery, animal rescue and wildlife conservation. Plus, they visit state-of-the-art veterinary hospitals for exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences and many other exciting excursions!

Future Vet Kids Camp January 2023 - Kookaburra group visits the Animal Welfare League NSW shelter


The program also showcases veterinary experts in ultrasound, surgery, reptiles, grooming, animal rehab, dog training, wildlife, marine biology and much more.
“Kids across the age groups love the hands-on activities, from baking pet treats to making enrichment toys, drawing blood and doing CPR on specially designed vet models!” said Dr Audrey. 
“The older kids (Junior Vets) learn how to work through real life cases, interpret imaging and blood work, learn all about vet school life and observe real life surgery.”

Dr Alison explained the camp is not just for ‘wannabe vets’, but all animal lovers! 

“Whether or not the kids end up following the path to a career in veterinary medicine, just being around different animals and making like-minded new friends has such a positive impact on them,” she said.

PetSure Scholarship open now!

Future Vet Kids Camp is proud to announce the 2024 PetSure Scholarship for three deserving participants to attend face-to-face camp. 

The deadline is Wednesday 10th December 2023
For more information, selection criteria and how to apply, please visit the camp website here.

PetSure Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Alex Thomas said, “We’re thrilled to support Future Vet Kids Camp in 2024 by offering three scholarships to young aspiring students to support the next generation of vets. Future Vet Kids Camp provides kids with an exciting and practical opportunity to learn about animal health and professions.
“Australia is facing a critical vet workforce shortage, so it’s never been more important to educate young students about the veterinary industry and animal-related careers.
We’re committed to improving pet health education and helping improve sustainability of the industry, so we’re proud to be part of a program that empowers young and curious animal lovers to further their knowledge.”

The January 2024 camp is anticipated to fill up just as fast as last summer, so register now!

January 2024 - Registration Open Now!

Find the full 
PROGRAM SCHEDULE here 

  • Face-to-Face Camp Dates: Jan 8 - 12 and Jan 15 – 19, 2024
  • Location: Waverley College, Waverley NSW | Daily hours: 9am – 3:30pm | Cost: $655
  • Virtual Online Camp runs Jan 7 – 20, 2024 | Cost $265
  • Christmas Gift Vouchers Available
For more information and to register online, please visit futurevetkidscamp.com or phone 0435 267 252.

More Camps and locations to come!

Future Vet Kids Camp will also run face-to-face and online (Virtual Camp) during the school holidays in Melbourne and Brisbane, dates to be announced. 
Register your interest here.

About Future Vet Kids Camp
Future Vet Kids Camp offers a safe, comfortable environment that explores and nurtures the human animal bond all under the supervision of highly qualified, enthusiastic instructors and specialised animal handlers. The goals are to promote responsible pet ownership, the profession of veterinary medicine and to encourage the children to love and appreciate animals of all kinds. 

The camp has more than 20 partners that offer years of specialised animal experience and professionalism that contributes greatly to the programming. Future Vet Kids Camp operates out of SydneyBrisbane and Melbourne during selected school holidays. 

Programming is split into three separate age groups running simultaneously each week: Wombats (ages 9-11)Kookaburras (ages 12-14) and the Junior Vet program (ages 14-16). To discover more, visit www.futurevetkidscamp.com

MEDIA RELEASE, 13th November 2023

Charity's Giving Day promises to triple donations to help keep vulnerable people and their pets together

Melbourne-based charitable organisation, Pets of the Homeless (POTH), will be holding their annual Giving Day on November 15th, 2023.

The volunteer-led support service provides pet food, veterinary care, safe shelter and material aid to pet owners who are facing homelessness or severe financial hardship. 

POTH also runs the very 
first Pet Food Bank in Victoria, and has distributed over 1,500,000 much needed meals for Victorian pets in crisis since 2015.

POTH’s annual Giving Day appeal, Never Tear Them Apart, will see all donations made to the organisation on Wednesday 15th November tripled by generous matching partners, including Petstock FoundationScratch, and Sunraysia.

Last year, POTH raised over $300,000 in 24 hours. For 2023, their ambitious goal is to reach $300,000 again. If the goal is achieved, the Never Tear Them Apart Appeal will allow the charity to focus their efforts on helping people and pets for an entire year as well as expand their services to more areas of regional Victoria.
“We have seen the need for our services grow exponentially with the constant rise in cost of living. 
So many people and pets have been severely impacted by the ongoing events of the past few years and with no relief in sight, Pets Of The Homeless is ready to step in to help.” said Yvonne Hong, Founder and CEO, POTH.


Donations for the 2023 Never Tear Them Apart Appeal can be made online from Thursday, 9th November until Thursday 16th November 2023 at: www.nevertearthemapart.org.au.


About Pets of the Homeless (POTH)

Pets of the Homeless (POTH) was founded in 2015, when Yvonne noticed there were no services in Victoria that looked after the pets of people experiencing homelessness. She began carrying pet supplies and food through the streets of Melbourne in a suitcase to hand out to rough sleepers. POTH has since connected with over 55 community support service partners to help distribute pet food across Victoria.




Win 1 of 3 copies of 'House Cat' - Inspirational Interiors and the Elegant Felines Who Call Them Home

To celebrate its official release today 31st October 2023, we joined forces with Thames and Hudson Australia for your chance to 
Win 1 of 3 copies of House Cat.

Just in time for Christmas, this is a covetable gift for cat lovers as well as admirers of stylish interiors.

Cats can be divas or devoted friends.
Cats can be homebodies or intrepid explorers.
Cats can love or loathe their canine counterparts.

But one thing they all share is a natural affinity for a comfortable home filled with sunshine, art and books. House Cat features fifty charismatic cats in the incredible spaces they allow their people to share – from a penthouse above Billionaires’ Row in New York to a Mexican hacienda-inspired home in Los Angeles, complete with nine feline residents.






With stunning photography accompanied by witty text, it is the ultimate pairing of enviable abodes and the confident cats who call them home.

About the Author:

Paul Barbera is an Australian-born, New York-based lifestyle and interiors photographer. He has shot the studios and homes of architects, designers and artists around the world, from Tadao Ando and Kengo Kuma to Jonathan Adler and Massimo Vitali. Employing a minimalist approach, Paul shoots in natural light and avoids complicated technical arrangements to capture emotional honesty in his subjects.

Regularly commissioned throughout the US, Asia and Europe, Paul's work has been published in high-end publications such as Vogue Living, Bon Appetit, New Yorker, Martha Stuart and Elle Decor. He is the author of Where they Create and Where they Purr.


Publisher: Thames and Hudson Australia, 31st October 2023.

RRP: $49.99 from all good book stores and online. For more information and stockists, visit thamesandhudson.com.au

*** Win 1 of 3 copies of 'House Cat' by Paul Barbera ***
Total Prize Pool: $150.00 

How to Enter:

1) Like our post (1/11/23) + our Facebook page and/or 
@australiancatlovers 
2) For your chance to win, tell us "why you need a copy of House Cat to elevate your home décor with your cat/s?" via @AustralianCatLover on Facebook or @australiancatlovers on Instagram (simply tag us in your photo entry, your account must be set to public).

Terms and Conditions:

1. This Competition opened on Wednesday 1st November 2023 (4pm, A.E.S.T.) and closed on Sunday 12th November 2023 (11:59pm, A.E.S.T.). Open to Australian residents only.
Congratulations to our 3 winners this week (via Facebook): Belinda B., Linda A., Glenda S.
Please allow 2 weeks to receive your prize directly from the Publisher.
2. To Enter, Like our post (01/11/23) + "why you need a copy of House Cat to elevate your home décor with your cat/s?" in the Comments via the Australian Cat Lover Facebook page or @australiancatlovers on Instagram.
3. This Promotion is a game of skill and chance plays no part in determining the winner.
The entries will be judged by the Australian Cat Lover team. The winning entries will be selected based on the most creative, informative or useful statement.
4. Tag as many friends as you'd like for extra chances.
5. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be redrawn.
* Entry into the competition is deemed acceptance of all terms and conditions.




Halloween is just around the corner, and as we prepare to enjoy this spooky season, Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) is urging all Australians to remember the safety of their beloved pets. Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia emphasizes the importance of a fun and safe Halloween celebration for our furry companions.

"While Halloween is a time for revelry and celebration, it's crucial to consider the safety of our pets," says Nadia Crighton. 

PIA suggests that dog and cat owners take steps to ensure their pets are protected during the haunting festivities.

Keeping Pets in a Safe Place

If you're hosting a Halloween party, consider keeping your pets away from the noise and commotion. Provide them with a secure and quiet location, such as a bathroom or laundry room, to help them feel safe and comfortable.


Beware of Toxic Treats

Chocolate, alcohol, and certain human foods can be extremely toxic to pets. Even a small amount of alcohol can be harmful. 

Additionally, items like popped balloons and ribbon can pose dangers if ingested by curious cats or dogs. 

Keep these items out of your pet's reach and away from the environment.

Costume Safety

Pet costumes add fun to the Halloween celebration, but always supervise your pet when they're wearing one. Ensure the costume does not restrict their movement or pose a risk.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for your pets, PIA recommends the following safety checklist:

✔️ Provide a secure place for your pets.
✔️ Label the door with a sign to indicate your pet's location.
✔️ Encourage your guests to offer treats from a dedicated "dog/cat treat jar" and not their plates.
✔️ Remove costumes when your pet is unsupervised.
✔️ Keep chocolate and alcohol out of reach.
✔️ Ensure your pet has a collar with up-to-date information.
✔️ Place signs to remind guests to close doors and gates.

Celebrating with Pets

As Halloween gains popularity in Australia, more pet owners are including their furry friends in the festivities.

However, it's essential to remain vigilant, as local veterinarians often see an increase in pet-related health issues during this time. These issues commonly include foreign body ingestion and toxicity cases. With some straightforward precautions, pet owners can ensure their pets remain healthy during Halloween.

Other Top Tips:

✔️ Educate children about the dangers of human treats for pets. Chocolate and sweets containing Xylitol are highly toxic to dogs.
✔️ Dispose of rubbish properly to prevent pets from scavenging.
✔️ 
Keep your pet engaged with treat balls or new toys during the celebration.

"Halloween is a great time to enjoy festivities alongside your pets," says Crighton. "Pet costumes bring laughter and enjoyment to pet lovers, but it's essential to remember not to leave your pet unsupervised in a costume."

With these simple guidelines in place, pet owners can ensure that their Halloween celebrations are not marred by a trip to the vet. 

As we look for ways to enjoy the Halloween season, remember that it's also a perfect opportunity to include your furry best friends in the fun.

About Pet Insurance Australia

Pet Insurance Australia is a leading provider of pet insurance in Australia, offering a range of insurance products for dogs and cats. The company is committed to the well-being and safety of pets and their owners. 
Learn more at https://www.petinsuranceaustralia.com.au

MEDIA RELEASE, 27th October 2023

Credit: Vet Answers


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