Pet photography is an increasingly popular way to capture the unique personalities of our beloved pets, as well as the bond we share with them. Estimated reading time: 6 minutes Read the latest animal news online now! Have you ever wondered how to take great photos of your dog? The world of pet photography is filled with joy, spontaneity, and endless opportunities, but it can also be a lot of work trying to get the best shot of an overly excited and energetic pooch! Pet photographer Vanessa recently took photos of the Animal Friendly Life team’s paw-family. We share her advice and tips ..read more

New research by Petstock shows that two-thirds of Australian pet owners celebrate their pets’ birthdays, adoption anniversaries, and other milestones. (image: Canva) Estimated reading time: 6 minutes Australia is a nation of animal lovers, so it should come as no surprise that most of us have a birthday party for pets or celebrate other significant events and life moments. In fact, it’s become such a trend that two-thirds of our nation’s pet parents say they make a habit out of hosting a party for dogs or cats whenever a celebratory date comes around. The study also shows that one-fifth (or ..read more

Wildlife advocate Ben Dessen writes about the rising popularity of alternative pets, and the upcoming The Pet Show in Brisbane. Estimated reading time: 6 minutes Read ‘The important role of animals in child development’: online now There’s no hiding the fact that Australia is a nation of animal lovers. In fact, 69% of Australian households have a pet of some sort, up from 61% before the COVID-19 pandemic*.  While dogs and cats top the list, there has also been a significant increase in interest around some of the more unusual pets.  These alternati ..read more

Teaching children about animal welfare from a young age is crucial in shaping a better world for animals, and those working in the field of psychology and animal protection want us all to be aware of the important role of animals in child development. We take a closer look at the topic with Professor Vicki Hutton and World Animal Protection Australia’s Suzanne Milthorpe. Both experts share their advice for parents on ways to educate children from a young age about animals. Estimated reading time: 6 minutes READ ONLINE NOW The best pets for kids: tips for finding the perfect first compani ..read more

This Earth Day, we take a look at five of the world’s most endangered species; wildlife trafficking, illegal hunting, and environment changes leading them to be on the brink of extinction. Keep reading to learn more about the five animal species and what we can all do to help keep them around for much longer. Estimated reading time: 6 minutes In the lush jungles of Borneo, a male orangutan swings from branch to branch, his movement effortless against the dense canopy that has been his ancestor’s home for millennia. Miles away, in the Arctic’s icy waters, a polar bear navigates shrinking ic ..read more

Host Lara Shannon is searching for the best dog in Australia! (credit: Mike Tarr) Estimated reading time: 9 minutes The nation’s first-ever canine talent show is calling for entries in their search for the best dogs in Australia. The Dog Down Under competition has officially opened its registration. Dog owners across the country can enter to showcase their pets’ exceptional abilities, achievements, and contributions to society. With a substantial prize pool exceeding $28,000, the competition promises to highlight the diverse talents and heartwarming stories of Australian dogs. Pet behaviou ..read more

Our pets are family, so it’s no surprise an increasing number of us are seeking legal advice about including pets in wills. Keep reading for expert legal advice about leaving pets in wills, including finding a caregiver for your pet and financial support. Estimated reading time: 4 minutes Read the latest animal and pet news online now at Animal Friendly Life Caring for pets after owner’s death Many pet owners don’t know how to ensure their animals are taken care of after they pass away. Though it’s a topic not many people like to talk or think about, it’s vital to plan ahead to make sure ..read more

March 23 is National Puppy Day; keep reading for ways to celebrate with your best mate while recognising the plight of dogs at puppy farms in Australia. Estimated reading time: 5 minutes READ NOW 5 pet adoption myths dispelled: fact vs faction of pet rescue As Australia gears up to celebrate National Puppy Day on March 23, animal lovers and advocates across the nation can the significant role puppies play in our lives. Established to honour the unconditional love and joy these young canines bring, animal welfare organisations say National Puppy Day is a chance to raise awareness about the ..read more

The PetStock Foundation’s National Pet Adoption Month campaign is marking its 10th consecutive year this month. Read on to learn more about the initiative, as well as reasons why rescuing pets is so important. Estimated reading time: 5 minutes This month marks the 10th anniversary of the Petstock Foundation’s National Pet Adoption Month campaign. The initiative – which runs every March – aims to educate the public about pet rescue and advocate for adoption of pets in need of homes. Throughout the years, National Pet Adoption Month campaign has led to 40,000 animals adopted in Australia a ..read more

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes Click to read the latest news in the pet, animal, and wildlife world! As a professor and author specialising in animal studies, Vicki Hutton has dedicated both her professional and personal life to researching the complex emotional worlds of animals. Vicki is passionate about animal welfare and has observed and written about them for many years. We spoke with Vicki about her new book ‘Recognising and responding to animal emotion in a shared world‘, which highlights the cognitive dissonance that exists between animals in some industries versus companion an ..read more