Pets In The Park

14/09/2025

Apologies for the delay, but here's some snaps from our August clinic! Did we mention - we got brand new portable dog scales! 😍 Thanks to grant funding, we do not have to lift our patients onto human weighing scales anymore. This made weighing patients safer (and less scary) for both volunteers and pets!

A special shoutout to Sarah from Humane Animal Rescue from dropping off some much needed pet food for our clients last month as well ❤️

If you would like to support us and the work we do, do check out our link in bio ☺️

🗓 Next clinic:
28 September 2025 (Sunday), 1 to 4.30pm

Our volunteer coordinator Luke has sent out email callouts this morning - volunteers do check your inbox for more information. If you would like to volunteer with us, feel free to DM or email us!

*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals

25/08/2025

Hi everyone! It'll be our August clinic next week 🐶😺

Hate to always be posting about this monthly but once again we currently only have one Vet sign up for our clinic on Sunday 😩 If you are a Vet and are free to help out, we would love to have you join us! To our volunteers, Luke just sent out reminder emails yesterday, so do check your inboxes for all the information. If you are new and are keen to volunteer, feel free to send us a DM or email [email protected] ☺️

✏️ Clinic details:
1 Raleigh St Footscray VIC 3011
31 August 2025 (Sunday), 1 to 4.30pm

See you this Sunday!

Want to refer a client?
*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals

18/08/2025

Pets In The Park (PITP) is proud to announce the opening of a new clinic in Wangaratta that will provide free veterinary care to the companion pets of people experiencing homelessness in the Northeast Victoria region, thanks to the generous support of the Victorian Government’s Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program.

“The Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program is making a real diAerence in the lives of Victorian companion animals and their owners, helping as many pets as possible into loving families,” said Agriculture Minister Ros Spence. “We are proud to work with animal care organisations to secure aAordable care, and we look forward to seeing the benefits of this work for many years to come.”

Launching on 19 October, the new clinic will be based at the Wangaratta Kennel and Obedience Dog Club and is one of 33 successful projects to receive funding in Round 12 of the grants program. This will be the 12th PITP clinic to be established since the charity started in 2012.

“For many of the people we support, their pet is family: sometimes all they have. This funding means we can set up a dedicated clinic in Northeast Victoria and provide two years of essential veterinary care, completely free, for those who need it most. We're incredibly grateful to the Allan Labor Government of Victoria and to the Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes for making this possible,” said Dr Lachlan Campbell, PITP Vice President.

Dr James Cameron, a local Wangarattaveterinarian and volunteer PITP Northeast clinic coordinator, said many people experiencing homelessness face significant barriers in accessing care for their pets.

“A lot of people are slipping through the cracks. With the privatisation of veterinary care, it's increasingly out of reach for many doing it tough—especially in regional areas like Wangaratta,” Dr Cameron said. “These animals are often a person’s lifeline. Being able to provide even the most basic care goes a long way in supporting both the animal and the person.”

Read our more at https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/about/media
Learn how to access our service at https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics

(photo left to right): Introducing volunteers Dr Sam Paterson, veterinary nurse Laura Hollyoak, and Dr Monica Kunze (accompanied by Grizzly, the German wire-haired pointer cross) who form part of the PITP Northeast team.
Photo courtesy of the

Animal Welfare Victoria

10/08/2025

Here's what went down in July 😊 Special thank you to Juliana and Jana for helping out with snapping some of these adorable pictures of the pets when the clinic got busy (a grand total of 5 photos were taken... hence the extra photos were much needed). Our team was a tad smaller this time round but as usual, we made it work (and made it to the pub thereafter) - good job dream team! One of our regular Vets, Dr Louisa, from Paws in Peace also helped a client of ours out with end of life care which we were very thankful for 🫂

Once again we had our friends from Humane Animal Rescue (Grace and Sarah) with loads of goodies for our clients and their pets - thank you legends!

Have donations to spare? Send us a DM or email and we can chat further!

🗓 Next clinic:
31 August 2025 (Sunday), 1 to 4.30pm

*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals

03/08/2025

National Homelessness Week (4–10 August 2025)
This week is a time to reflect on the growing challenge of homelessness across Australia. Despite our country’s wealth and progress, far too many people are struggling to find safe and secure housing.

Homelessness is complex. It’s rarely the result of one factor, but instead a combination of rising living costs, mental health issues, family breakdown, and a system that often falls short. The result for many is a life of uncertainty, exclusion, and hardship, with often their pet being the one constant and source of unconditional love.

In 2022, 3 million people were at risk of homelessness. Where one setback like job loss or illness could mean losing their home – up 63% since 2016. In 2023-24, 280,000 people were assisted by specialist homelessness services (with 6 in 10 female).

Pets In The Park (PITP) runs free monthly pop-up veterinary healthcare programs at 11 locations nationally, enabling homeless individuals to care for their pets while supporting their own wellbeing. Our clinics offer more than just animal healthcare—they provide connection, trust, and support in some of life’s toughest moments. We rely on volunteerism, public donations, and corporate support to help us deliver our vital programs.

We believe in a future where no one is left without a place to call home, where social safety nets are strong enough to prevent anyone slipping through the cracks. Until then, our volunteer teams will continue to show up—side by side with the people and pets who need us most.

If you would like to learn more about our charity, get involved, and support our volunteers, please visit us online: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au

18/07/2025

That moment when all photos of June's clinic were treat-focused faces 🤤🥹

Apologies for the delay in sharing these precious photos and videos! As usual, a huge thank you to everyone who provided supplies to us in one way or another. Special thank you to Evervet South Yarra and East Melbourne for surprising us with a big bunch of puppy and kitten kibbles too 😻 They were snapped up quick at both Footscray and St Kilda clinics. We also had our friends from Humane Animal Rescue come down to distribute pet food and other supplies to our clients. Donated clothes for humans were also collected by our amazing volunteer Vanessa so both furkids and pawrents can stay warm 💗 Have donations to spare? Send us a DM or email and we can chat further!

🗓 Next clinic:
27 July 2025 (Sunday), 1 to 4.30pm

*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals

26/06/2025

PITP Hobart Clinic Coordinator Susan wanted to share Hammer's story...

When you look at the news and see all the problems in the world, think of Hammer and the positive affect we had on his life.

Hammer was a gorgeous elderly English Staffy that first came to PITP Hobart clinic in July 2023 and rarely missed a clinic. He had the chronic health conditions that come to all of us with time, but he was one of those tough, stoic, “chunky monkeys” that was totally devoted to his Dad and his Dad was totally devoted to him. They supported each other through so many good and bad times.

Over the years, we got to know Hammer and his Dad pretty well. Hammer has now had his final days on earth but without PITP, his time would have ended long ago and he would have had to endure a lot more pain. We gave Hammer and his Dad emotional support (many tears and lots of supporting shoulders), physical support (food, warm coats, lifts to and from clinics when they couldn’t manage it) and financial support (medications and professional help).

Special shout out of thanks to these amazing external services that generously gave us vastly discounted services for Hammer:



support

Hobart is just one of the many PITP clinics that help to make this world a better place for our clients who may not have seen a lot of kindness in their lives. Together, with the help of our community, we are making a positive difference in the world.

Donate today: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/how-to-help-us/donate-now

25/06/2025

(WE NEED VETS 🗣)

Hi everyone! Hope you are staying warm and comfy as we enter winter season. We currently only have ONE vet signup for our clinic this Sunday. If you are a Vet and are free to help out, we would love to have you on board. We are facing an increase in number of client referrals, hence it is important to have sufficient staff on our end for a successful clinic day 🏆 Do help us spread the word!

A massive thank you to the Vet nurses and DVM students that have indicated their availability for this Sunday as well 🫶 Signup emails were emailed last week so do check your inboxes for all the information. If you are new and are keen to volunteer, feel free to send us a DM or email [email protected]

See you this Sunday!



Want to refer a client?
*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals

24/06/2025

This financial year is nearly over so if you're thinking of supporting Pets In The Park and the work we do providing free veterinary healthcare to the pets of people experiencing homelessness, here's just one example of the impact your donation could have for those living life tough at the moment.

Working together we can make a true difference to the lives of others.
If you can give a little, we would be most grateful...simply follow this link: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/how-to-help-us/donate-now

23/06/2025

What a wonderful information night, particularly for those with senior pets. The lovely folk Melbourne Veterinary Rehabilitation will also be asking for a gold coin donation on the night which will be given to support Pets In The Park. Another lovely community connection that we're very proud and grateful to be involved.

We are so excited to announce that we’ve partnered with to bring a free information evening to our neighbourhood! Join us on 10th July at 6:00pm at Melbourne Vet Rehab for an evening of compassionate conversations around senior pet care, end-of-life decisions, and how to support your beloved dog and yourself through their journey of ageing.

📍 81a Hudsons Rd, Spotswood VIC
💛 Free to attend | Gold coin donation welcome

📩 RSVP now and bring your questions for the experts!

21/06/2025

Michael & Angel - their story

Michael attended Pets In The Park with his beloved dog, Angel — a gentle and deeply intuitive companion who plays an extraordinary role in his family's life. Angel has been a constant source of strength and support, particularly during his wife’s cancer treatment.

Throughout her illness, Angel never left her side. She would sleep beside her, accompany her to the bathroom during the night, and alert Michael if his wife needed help. In many ways, Angel functions like an unofficial assistance dog — responding instinctively to the needs of both Michael and his wife, who both live with anxiety.

Michael describes Angel as “highly protective” and emotionally attuned. She senses when something’s wrong and responds with calm, reassuring presence. To this family, Angel is not just a pet — she’s "a daughter". She has her own teddy, pillow and blanket, and is a cherished part of their daily routines and emotional wellbeing.

“She knows her purpose,” says Michael. “It’s to give love.”

Michael shared his story with humility, grateful for the veterinary care Angel received at Pets In The Park. For families like his, keeping their pets healthy isn't just about animal welfare: it’s about protecting the heart of the family. The human-animal bond is powerful, and for people facing complex challenges like illness, housing insecurity, or mental health struggles, that bond can be a true lifeline.

At Pets In The Park, we work to safeguard that bond — by offering free veterinary care to pets like Angel, and peace of mind to people like Michael. With your support, we can continue to provide vital services that honour both people and their beloved pets.

Help us reach more families like Michael’s. Your kindness keeps tails wagging, and hearts strong. Donate today at https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/how-to-help-us/donate-now

20/06/2025

Who's a happy boy??

A donation from the Kingborough Dog Walking Association has put a smile on the face of 13-year-old Rocky, a handsome boy who had a very rotten tooth.

The funds were used for a general anaesthetic, IV fluids, blood test, dental xrays, dental scale and polish, extraction of said rotten tooth, and testing of four skin lumps.

Rocky visited the Hobart PITP clinic in May for his post op check and is doing very well!

Another example of your kindness at work. To make a tax deductible donation to support Pets In The Park, please visit https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/how-to-help-us/donate-now

19/06/2025

It's nearly June 30th and if you're thinking of supporting Pets In The Park and the work we do providing free veterinary healthcare to the pets of people experiencing homelessness, here's just one example of the impact your donation could have for those living life tough at the moment.

If you can give a little, we would be most grateful...simply follow this link: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/how-to-help-us/donate-now

17/06/2025

At the beginning of the year, Andrew lived in a bus shelter in Parramatta NSW with his dog, Caesar. Despite his circumstances, Andrew refused to be separated from his loyal companion, even when it meant turning down accommodation that wouldn’t accept pets. During this time, Pets In The Park Parramatta clinic provided free monthly veterinary care, tick and flea treatments, and food for Caesar to help keep him as healthy and comfortable as possible.

Recently Andrew’s situation changed for the better when he was offered stable housing, and this time (and more importantly), Caesar was welcomed as well! This impactful story is a powerful reminder of the importance of keeping people and their pets together, and of the role your donations play in making that possible. Pets In The Park helps people like Andrew and dogs like Caesar access veterinary care, essential supplies, and the dignity of staying together through hardship and healing.

Donate today if you can and together we can help support more people living with homelessness and their pets
https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/how-to-help-us/donate-now

04/06/2025

Here's what went down in May! We struggled with Vet numbers initially but we pulled through (as usual 😜) with a solid team of vet nurses and DVM students as well. Sarah from Humane Animal Rescue and Prue, a retired social worker, also helped us out with organising supplies and pet food for our clients. Go team!

A huge thank you to our amazing friends at Humane Animal Rescue and Spirit Animal Rescue for providing pet food, dewormers and pet supplies to our cause while running busy rescues of their own 💗 Be sure to check them out if you're planning to foster or adopt a furry friend!

🗓 Next clinic:
29 June 2025 (Sunday), 1 to 4.30pm

*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals

20/05/2025

Hi everyone!

Our May clinic will be happening next week and a huge thank you to those that have already signed up to help out! We currently only have ZERO vet sign ups at the moment (*which is stressing me out*)... With no vets, we are unable to run the clinic! If any vets are available, we really need your help and support 🤞🤍 Our volunteer manager, Luke, sent out a second callout email on Sunday so do check your inbox for more information and sign up if you can - please 🥲

Thank you so much and see you all this Sunday 🐶🐱

18/05/2025

At Pets In The Park, we celebrate the incredible individuals who are the heart of our charity — our volunteers. 💙

From vets and vet nurses, to support crew and coordinators, to our Board of Directors, you bring compassion and care to those doing life tough with their beloved animal companions.

💬 Without you, Pets In The Park would simply cease to exist. Because of you, lives are changed, trust is built, and community is created.

This National Volunteer Week, we honour the spirit of connection you embody — and the inclusive, thriving communities you help us build across the country - Parramatta, Darlinghurst, Northern Rivers, Melbourne CBD, Frankston, St Kilda, Hobart, Launceston, Canberra, Brisbane and Caboolture. Thank you. 🐾💫

06/05/2025

Our monthly dose of serotonin and giving back! Special thank you to Humane Animal Rescue for providing us with loads of pet food, pet supplies and parasite control for our furry friends. Just look at that cute taco costume that Soxy went home with 🌮! HAR's founder, Grace, even helped our clients out with picking goodies as well as making sure every dog gets a treat 😋🐶

Please check out Humane Animal Rescue and give them your support! We are very grateful to work with rescues like them with such big hearts and strong community spirit 💚💗

🗓 Next clinic:
25 May 2025 (Sunday), 1 to 4.30pm

*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals

30/04/2025

[Celebrating Art, Pets and Community 💐🐾]

Gantcho Taskov (Gantcho Of Melbourne) is a local artist and photo designer who creates flower arrangements and floristry designs. On April 3, he held an art exhibition featuring photographs of his flower arrangements and beloved dog, Frank. Gantcho usually donates all proceeds from his exhibition to charitable causes and has decided on Pets in the Park as the recipient for the month of April!

The exhibition was held at Braybrook Community Hub and our PITP Central Melbourne coordinator, Cassie Curtis, was invited to give a few words on behalf of PITP.

Thank you, Gantcho, for your generosity and support! We will put the funds into good use for our clients.

Do check out and support Gantcho's amazing works as well 😊

21/04/2025

Hi everyone!

Hope you had a lovely long weekend so far and Happy Easter to those that celebrate it 😊

Our April clinic will be happening next week and a huge thank you to those that have already signed up to help out! We currently only have one vet sign up at the moment which unfortunately isn’t enough considering the number of clients we serve every month. If any other vets are available, we really need your help and support 🤞🤍 Our volunteer manager, Luke, just sent out a callout email this afternoon so do check your inbox for more information and sign up if you can!

See you all this Sunday 🐶🐱

13/04/2025

Here's what went down at our March clinic last month! A massive thank you to all of our amazing volunteers for making this possible 💗 Pet beds were once again a big hit with our furry friends (and yes - Oscar was a very good boy 🐶).

We are running low on pet food donations after last month's clinic, so any donations will be greatly appreciated! Do email us at [email protected] or send us a DM via our socials if you are able to help 😊

🗓 Next clinic:
27 April 2025 (Sunday), 1 to 4.30pm

*Eligibility for our free veterinary service is for those who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at genuine risk of becoming homeless. For more information and referral forms please visit our website: https://www.petsinthepark.org.au/clinics/referrals