• 30 Funniest entries revealed in the Final Shortlist

• People’s Choice Award open for public vote

 

The Comedy Pet Photo Awards has published the very best images shortlisted this year and there are some absolute crackers (like our lead shot 'Hard Workers' by Atsuyuki Ohshima / Comedy Pets) to make you smile!

Kenichi Morinaga / Comedy Pets
Cat in a-trap like a Super Mario

Among the top Finalists there is a cat stuck in a wall, a Kung Fu dog, a headless horse, and a very happy donkey.

The funny pet photo competition was created by Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam, both professional photographers to celebrate the positive and vital role that pets have in our lives and to encourage engagement around animal welfare.

The images were chosen for their photographic quality as well as their comedic value and are now subject to some serious scrutiny from the judges who are all expert animal lovers to pick the winner. 

The panel includes TV presenter, writer, conservationist and animal lover Kate Humble, professional photographer and nature lover Gerrard Gethings and his son Jarvis Gethings, plus Barry the Border Terrier, for balance. 

TV Vet and animal welfare campaigner - Emma Milne and our very own professional pet photographer and former competition winner - Elke Vogelsang.

All the 30 Finalists will be eligible for the People’s Choice Category, where the public get to vote via the website for their favourite funny pet. 

Photo: Kenichi Morinaga / Comedy Pets - You didn't hear this from me

The vote is open from 10th May and closes on 2nd June. One lucky voter, chosen at random will win £100 cash prize!

The 2024 Comedy Pet Winners will be announced on 6th June. The Winner received £500 cash and a brilliant camera bag from ThinkTANK (www.thinktankphoto.com)

For further information, please visit: www.comedypetphoto.com

Photo: Jonathan Casey / Comedy Pets - New Rose

You can also follow Comedy Pet on socials:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/comedypetphoto/ 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/comedypetphoto_awards/ 
X: twitter.com/ComedyPetPhoto

Photo: Kazutoshi Ono / Comedy Pets - Tarzan

MEDIA RELEASE, London, 10th May 2024

Your chance to Win 1 of 2 Family Passes to The Pet Show, coming to Adelaide Showground on Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th May 2024!

There will be lots of information and goodies about cats but not only! So get your pet fix under one roof, you will be able to cuddle, explore and learn everything you need to know about dogs, small animals (guinea pigs, rabbits) as well as fish, birds and reptiles.

The Pet Show is all about positive pet ownership, sharing education, entertainment, and products for all pets from tails to scales and everything in between.

With over 120 experts from the pet industry, the popular multi-zone format will give attendees the opportunity to hear from celebrity vets, be entertained with stage shows and activations, interact with pets and breeders and participate in photo opportunities.

The Pet Show Adelaide will feature a range of experts including author, pet expert and director of Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, Ben Dessen, Dr Katrina Warren and Kelly Gill along with the Wonderdogs and Debra Millikan from the Pet Professional Guild of Australia. 

There will also be a large range of exhibitors including Refuresh, Edenhills Pet Cremation, RSPCA South Australia, Canine Connect, DOG by Dr Lisa, The Pet Butcher and more as well as entertainment and activities from face painting and a kids agility course to scent work demonstrations and meet and greets with the famous Bluey and Bingo.

Grab one of these free Family Passes by the tail and don’t miss out!

*** Win 1 of 2 Family Passes (2 adults + 2 children) ***

for Saturday 18th or Sunday 19th May 2024

(Total Prize Pool: $120.00 - Family members must arrive together)

Learn more about The Pet Show at thepetshow.com.au/adelaide or on socials:

Please click here to visit their Instagram page
Please click here to visit their Facebook page

HOW TO ENTER:

1) Like our post (05/05/2024) & our Facebook page and/or Instagram Account

2) "Who / What are you looking forward to seeing PLUS which day would you like to attend: Saturday 18th or Sunday 19th May 2024?" on the Australian Cat Lover Facebook page or Instagram page. 

Terms and Conditions:

1. This Competition will open on Sunday 5th May (12pm) and will close on Sunday 12th May 2024 (11:59pm A.E.S.T.). 

Open to Australian residents only. 

2. To Enter, Like our post (05/05/24) + Tell us "Who / What are you looking forward to seeing PLUS which day would you like to attend Saturday 18th or Sunday 19th May 2024?" via the Australian Cat Lover Facebook page or Instagram page.

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. Entrants in the competition can only enter once.

5. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours will be redrawn.

* Entry into the competition is deemed acceptance of all terms and conditions.

Related Stories:

The Pet Show Adelaide 2024 - 18 & 19 May

In line with May to celebrate National Pet Month, Hills Pet Nutrition Australia are eager to raise awareness surrounding the pet obesity epidemic and help to inform pet parents about nutrition and lifestyle changes we can all implement to aid our pets in losing weight, giving them a healthier outlook: both now and into the future.

Pet Obesity Statistics

A significant percentage of Australian pets are overweight, mirroring global trends in pet health:

• 32% of cats and 41% of dogs in Australia are overweight or obese according to Pet Food Industry Association Australia.
• 1 in 3 pet parents do not recognise their pet's weight issues.

Obesity is one of the top health threats our pets face, yet is preventable with proactive management.

These statistics highlight a lack of education among pet owners. This issue doesn't just stop at extra kilos: it extends to affecting our pets' mobility, mood, and overall wellbeing.

Did you know that for every kilo your pet is overweight, it has the same equivalent impact as the following for us humans:

• Cat: 1kg overweight = 15kg overweight

• Small Dog: 1kg overweight = 6kg overweight

• Large Dog: 1kg overweight = 3kg overweight

*Approximate calculation based on a 68 Kg person, 4.5 Kg cat, 11 Kg small breed dog, and 25 Kg large breed dog.

Resources and Support - How to Identify an Overweight Pet

In addressing the challenge of pet obesity, Hills Pet Nutrition Australia offers valuable resources that can turn concern into action.

Onsite visuals and guides aim to support better healthy pet weight management through identifiers to spot clear indicators of whether our pets are in their normal and healthy weight range and provide detailed weight management guidance across all topics from pet fitness their caloric needs to educate pet parents on how to both reduce and maintain the weight of our pets, so that they can be in their best natural shape.

The L.O.V.E Test

Our simple tool, called the L.O.V.E. Test is a good reminder to help effectively assess your pet's weight providing a tailored assessment to understand the specific needs and health risks of your dog or cat.

✔️ L: Locating the pet's ribs

✔️ O: Observing from above

✔️ V: Viewing from the side

✔️ E: Evaluating feeding behaviour

Additionally, our Pet Calorie Converter tool demystifies the overlooked impact of human food on our pets by translating what those table scraps really mean in terms of a pet’s daily caloric intake.

This tool is a game changer for pet parents, aiding in making informed decisions that keep their pets daily food intake in line with their overall energy needs and health goals. Together, these resources seek to empower pet owners to actively manage their pets’ weights through informed nutrition choices.

As caretakers, it's crucial to understand that keeping our pets at a healthy weight is not just about aesthetics—it's about ensuring their overall well-being and quality of life. Regular veterinary check-ups and mindful dietary choices can go a long way in preventing the detrimental effects of pet obesity, fostering a happier and healthier life for our four-legged friends.

Dr Jessica Mills, Professional Consulting Veterinarian at Hill’s Pet Nutrition Australia said:

“Changed perceptions of what a healthy weight for a pet is or what that looks like is partly to blame. If the majority of pets we meet on the streets and at the park are overweight, then this can become 'normalised' regardless of where that sits on the scale of health and wellbeing. A few easy tips to tell if your dog or cat is overweight - you should be able to feel your pet’s ribs through their fur and your cat or dog should not have a sagging tummy. The team at your local veterinary clinic are a great place to get advice if you are concerned that your pet might be overweight.

As well as recognising when a pet is overweight, it’s important to do something about it. Being overweight or obese is more than just a cosmetic problem for dogs and cats. Being overweight causes a state of chronic inflammation that can lead to the development of many preventable diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and respiratory conditions, and can shorten a pet’s life expectancy by up to 2 years.”

Top 10 Tips to Support Pets' Healthy Weight Management 

    1. Know your starting point: A healthy weight can vary between breeds and species, and you need to know what’s ideal for your pet type. Typically, you should weigh your dog or cat in kilos and keep this figure in your pet’s health file as a clear starting point.

    2. Calculate exact calories: You need to know how many calories your dog or cat requires in order to maintain a healthy balance; consider age, weight, activity level and breed type amongst other things. Feeding guides on food packages are just that, a guide. Your pet’s feeding amount may need to be adjusted to support their individual requirements. The team at your local veterinary clinic will be able to help determine your pet's ideal body weight and energy requirements.

    3. Provide a good quality diet: A nutritious diet can make a huge difference in your pet’s lifelong health and happiness. Nutrition not only impacts your pets’ weight, but also contributes to healthy digestion, strong bones and a beautiful coat. Precisely balanced nutrition is key to any pet’s weight management journey.

    4. Make sure you measure meals: Many pet owners simply ‘guestimate’ when it comes to feeding their dogs and cats the right amount. Weighing out your pet's food is the most accurate way to measure their daily intake, and using the measuring cup provided by the manufacturer can also keep you on the right track. The feeding guide on the pack will provide you with a good starting point. Alternatively, your veterinary health care team or manufacturer's helpline can help you determine the ideal amount to be feeding your pet.

    5. Try to switch out ‘treats’: Don’t feed table scraps to your pet, especially if they are trying to lose weight. It might seem like a little ‘here and there’ but for some pets, it can be the equivalent of a whole meal. In human calorie terms, 28 g of cheddar cheese is the equivalent of 1.5 burgers for your 9 kg dog or 3.5 burgers for your 4.5 kg cat! Instead, get into the habit of rewarding good behaviour with fun, not with food. Pay your pet extra attention and affection with more cuddles, walks or playtime.

    6. Use food as a way to nourish the body and mind: Many pets will overeat when they are bored. Puzzle feeders or treat balls can be used to help keep your pet mentally active and slow down their eating habits by making them work for their food. 

    7. Prioritise an exercise plan:

• For Dogs: Look at simple ways to increase their exercise. Maybe it’s possible to add a couple of extra walks a week or increase the length of your daily walk. Try to change the route so they are exercising more intensely - going up hills or stairs are great to burn calories. Another great option is to find games they like such as fetch so that you both enjoy these daily exercise sessions.

• For Cats: Simple games such as “hunting” the light can encourage them to move more. Simply shine a torch on the floor and walls and the natural movement will encourage your pet to chase it. 

For cats that love their food, puzzle feeders and dividing the meal around the house can encourage more movement whilst they eat - in fact you can actually teach your cat to hunt for their food by hiding it around the house.

    8. Make it a family affair: Ensure that everyone involved in your pets care is aware of all changes to diet, exercise or health regime. That way it will be a lot easier to stick to their required plan and you will be more likely to stay on track as everyone can join together, to encourage a healthier lifestyle.

    9. Know what’s normal: It is important to have a base understanding of what is normal when it comes to the weight and size of your pet, just like you would do with your own body. Make sure you are regularly performing health checks and you know signs to look out for. Unexpected or sudden weight loss or weight gain could be an indicator of underlying disease and a good reason to check in with your vet.

    10. Take it slow: At the end of the day, healthy weight management for your cat or dog is a lifestyle change. Remember there is no quick fix and that nothing happens overnight. But by looking at the diet and exercise regime of your pets, you can help keep them healthy and happy for many years to come.

MEDIA RELEASE, 30th April 2024

Related Stories:

Busting Myths about Cat Diet and Feeding

How to Best Feed your Cat

ISFM and the AAFP release new guidelines on the long-term use of NSAIDs in cats

Veterinarians around the globe now have access to the latest Consensus Guidelines created by a panel of world-leading feline experts on the long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in cats. 

The most widely used analgesic in veterinary medicine, the ‘2024 ISFM and AAFP consensus guidelines on the long-term use of NSAIDs in cats’ from the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) supports practitioners with decision-making around prescribing NSAIDs in situations of chronic pain to minimise adverse effects and optimise pain management for their feline patients.

An extensive and practical guide to all aspects of the long-term use of NSAIDs in feline medicine, the Guidelines provide valuable resources for veterinarians and cover essential information including:

✔️ Mechanism of action of NSAIDs
✔️ Indications for their long-term use in cats
✔️ Assessing patient suitability and screening prior to prescription of NSAIDs
✔️ Considerations for NSAID use in the presence of comorbidities
✔️ Monitoring treatment efficacy
✔️ Avoidance and management of adverse effects
✔️ Considerations for anaesthesia and surgery in cats receiving long-term NSAID therapy
✔️ Cat-friendly techniques to reduce chronic pain in the clinic and at home

The Guidelines also focus on providing cat-friendly advice and tips for supporting caregivers to help improve compliance and therapeutic outcomes, while positively impacting the cat-caregiver bond. 

Three new guides for cat caregivers have been created by ISFM on supporting topics: 

1. ‘Treating chronic (long-lasting) pain with NSAIDs’

2. ‘Changes to the home environment for cats with muscle/joint pain or mobility problems’ and

3. ‘Encouraging your cat to drink’

Plus a ‘Treating Chronic Pain with NSAIDs’ Client Brochure from the AAFP to accompany the Guidelines.

Commenting on the evolution of the Guidelines, Dr Sam Taylor, Head of Veterinary Specialists at ISFM and contributing author, said: ‘The first NSAID Guidelines were published in 2010. Since then, multiple studies have examined the use of NSAIDs in cats, particularly those with comorbidities. These Guidelines have examined this evidence and aim to provide practitioners with practical information on using NSAIDs for chronic pain management, along with tips and advice on working with caregivers to provide the best care for their cat.’

‘We are thrilled to announce the release of these new Guidelines addressing long-term use of NSAIDs in cats,’ added Heather O’Steen, AAFP CEO. ‘With a focus on safety, efficacy, and responsible medication management, these Guidelines aim to enhance the quality of life for cats while minimizing potential risks. We believe that these Guidelines will serve as a vital resource in ensuring the optimal care and wellbeing of cats receiving long-term NSAID therapy.’

The ‘2024 ISFM and AAFP consensus guidelines on the long-term use of NSAIDs in cats’ is now available free to read for veterinary professionals worldwide in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery (JFMS) at:
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epdf/10.1177/1098612X241241951

About the International Society of Feline Medicine

The International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) is the veterinary division of the pioneering cat welfare charity International Cat Care. Trusted by vets and nurses, it provides a worldwide resource on feline health and wellbeing.

About the American Association of Feline Practitioners

The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) supports its members in improving the health and wellbeing of cats through high standards of practice, continuing education, and evidence-based medicine. Celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2024 as a trusted leader in the veterinary community, the AAFP has a long-standing reputation and track record for increasing the standard of care for cats through the development of practice guidelines, feline-specific education and resources, and feline caregiver resources. Home to the Cat Friendly Practice® and Cat Friendly Certificate Programs, the AAFP encourages veterinary professionals of all levels to re-evaluate preconceived notions of practice strategies and advance the quality of feline medicine.

About the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery

The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery (jfms.com) is the official journal of the
International Society of Feline Medicine and the American Association of Feline Practitioners, and is published by Sage Publishing.

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The Importance of Drinking Water for Cats

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Australia’s First National Pet Show is coming to Adelaide!

Marking the fifth show since the inaugural Sydney launch in 2022, Australia’s First National Pet Show will arrive in Adelaide on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 May 2024 at the Adelaide Showgrounds.

Announcing a line up of over 120 experts and exhibitors, the event will follow the successful multi-zone format that has received an overwhelmingly positive response from attendees nationwide. 

Bringing together the best of the pet industry, it is the perfect event for proud pet parents as well as those looking for a new pet that may not be sure where to start.

Managing Director, Cameron Just, says, “Following the success of our shows across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane we’re excited to be adding a new event to our roster that will allow us to help Adelaide residents immerse themselves in all things pets. With a rate of dog ownership that is higher than the national average [1], it was clear to us that Adelaide was the perfect addition to our show line-up.

“There is no other pet event like this in Adelaide so we’re excited to see the response from the community. We’re committed to championing positive pet parenting for both traditional and non-traditional pets and are grateful for the support we’ve had to date which has made expanding our show possible.”

The new show will feature a range of experts including author, pet expert and director of Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, Ben Dessen, Dr Katrina Warren and Kelly Gill along with the Wonderdogs and Debra Millikan from the Pet Professional Guild of Australia. 

There will also be a large range of exhibitors including Refuresh, Edenhills Pet Cremation, RSPCA South Australia, Canine Connect, DOG by Dr Lisa, The Pet Butcher. 

Young pet lovers will also be entertained with activities from face painting and a kids agility course to scent work demonstrations and meet and greets with the famous Bluey and Bingo.

Tickets are currently available online from https://thepetshow.com.au/adelaide with part proceeds from every sale donated to the RSPCA South Australia.

Following the Adelaide show, The Pet Show will hold an additional two shows this year, travelling to:

• Brisbane | 22nd - 23rd June 2024

• Sydney | 16th - 17th November 2024

About The Pet Show

The Pet Show is Australia’s first national pet show. A multi-zone consumer show, it enables potential pet owners, existing pet owners and animal lovers of all kinds to immerse themselves in all things pets. The Pet Show’s vision is to create the perfect pet parent experience incorporating education, entertainment, and products for dogs, cats, fish, birds, reptiles and small animals.

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^[1] Dog and Cat Management Plan 2019-2024

Adoption fee discount to ease pressure on animal shelters

The City of Sydney is reducing the adoption fees for pets being housed in its animal shelter, in a bid to reduce pressure on the animal care facility.

From 15 to 26 April, adoption fees will be cut from $263 to $131.50 for cats and from $399 to $199.50 for dogs.

Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said she hoped the reduced fees would help some of the city’s four legged residents find a new home.

“We know that shelters and rehoming organisations are currently in crisis across Sydney. The cost of living, housing affordability and rental restrictions means the number of animals being surrendered has increased dramatically,” the Lord Mayor said.

“We know how important pets are to people’s lives and wellbeing. We’re hoping that by reducing these fees, we can both reduce the cost of pet ownership and help to ease pressure on our shelter.”

Since 2009 lost and abandoned pets in the City of Sydney area have been looked after at the Sutherland Animal Shelter, in partnership with Sutherland Shire Council.

“We’re very proud our animals are looked after at Sutherland Animal Shelter,” the Lord Mayor said.

Adoptable Siren (6 months)
Photo: Sutherland Animal Shelter

“The facility provides a high level of care for animals and aims to rehome or rehabilitate each of its residents, with one of the lowest euthanasia rates in the country.

“However, it is also at capacity. The number of City of Sydney pets being kept in our shelter has almost doubled in the last two years, up from 44 dogs and 37 cats in 2021 to 84 dogs and 63 cats in 2023.

“For decades we have fought to improve the welfare of companion animals. Our new reduced adoption costs are part of a suite of initiatives the City of Sydney is running to support residents who own pets.”

The City of Sydney runs several programs to help support pet owners. These include annual pet days where social housing residents can access free pet health checks, vaccinations, microchipping, flea and worming treatments, as well as subsidised desexing.

We also encourage people to register their pets online and offer subsidised desexing and free microchipping for pensioners and eligible people on low incomes.

The discount adoption scheme is part of a broader program run by the Sutherland Animal Shelter. 

The animal shelter is having an open day on Tuesday 16th April 2024, from 10am-2pm.

Address: Sutherland Shire Animal Shelter, 8 Production Road, Taren Point, NSW 2229

Phone: 02 9710 0401

To find out more contact shelter staff at animalshelter@ssc.nsw.gov.au.