Each month features gorgeous photos of adopted Pets Haven dogs and cats, with all proceeds going straight to Pets Haven to help us continue to care for lost, unwanted and abandoned animals.

Calendars are available over the counter at the shelter, from our eBay store (click here) or by emailing sandra@petshaven.com.au

The cost is $10.00 per calendar (plus postage)

PETS HAVEN IS HAVING A CHRISTMAS PARTY!

Come and join us and celebrate a fantastic year of saving animals. Our biggest yet!
Date & Time: 4th  December – 3:00 – 6:00pm
Location: Hardimans Hotel, 521 Macaulay Rd, Kensington

Volunteers, foster carers and supporters, please bring your family and have a ball with other people who are also passionate about what Pets Haven do.

Entry fee is a donation (of your choice).

SANTA will be in the beer garden (of course), as will the always fantastic K9Kate to take photos of your dog (and kids) sitting on Santa’s lap!

We will also have stalls with some GREAT gifts to buy.

Natures Gift products are Australian owned and made for pets. They will be at our Christmas party selling treats and show bags for our furkids.

Botanique Skin & Spa will be there with luscious homemade skin care and body products and amazing massages.

Heavenly Nest will have a unique selection of handpicked homewares that you can usually only purchase online.

Fifth Avenue Collection will be there with a stand of their lovely blingtastic jewellery.

Pets Haven will also have a merchandise stall there, so you can still get Pets Haven gifts for those you love including mugs, calendars, Christmas cards and much more!

Bookings now being taken for Santa photos.
Please contact fundraising@petshaven.com.au for available times.

Live music from 5pm – starting with the lovely Susan Lily with Wendy Stapleton and Paul Norton following after.

CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU THERE!

Pet’s Haven from Visual Contact on Vimeo.

We have recently set up a food bank with the all-Australian petfood company Nature’s Gift.

Anyone can deposit money into the food bank to help feed the dogs and cats at Pet’s Haven, its simple!

This is how it works:

1)      You first decide how much you want to donate – even if it’s $2 (every little bit helps us out!)

2)      You then transfer the money via your online banking system to the following Bendigo Bank account:

BSB: 633000

Account: 143337103

3)      Nature’s Gift then uses the money in the food bank to provide us with their food at a special reduced wholesale rate – so your donation goes even further than what the same amount would buy you in the supermarket.

4)      The animals here at Pet’s Haven are kept full and healthy with tummies full of Nature’s Gift!

If you would like more information about Nature’s Gift and their healthy pet food products please visit their website: www.naturesgift.com.au or become their friend on Facebook: www.facebook.com/NaturesGiftAustralia and help them to support us!

Tomorrow from Visual Contact on Vimeo.

Thank you to Josh O’Neill for his wonderful work on this documentary.

Pets Haven – 6/130 High Street, Woodend VIC

BALWYN NORTH – 1a Hughes st, Balwyn North

BORONIA – 1 Flinders Cres, Boronia

BUNDOORA – 1 Brownhill St, Bundoora

FAWKNER – 85 Argyle street, Fawkner

FRANKSTON – 8 Lulworth Place, Frankston

HOPPERS CROSSING – 11 Oleander Drive, Hoppers Crossing

HOPPERS CROSSING – 32 Dona Drive, Hoppers Crossing

MELTON – H’s Place Hair Studio, 41 Mckenzie st, Melton

MELTON – 22 Raleigh’s rd, Melton

MERRIMU – 13 Lindsay Ave, Merrimu

NEWPORT – Rhuarc’s Pet Supplies, 328 Melbourne Rd, Newport

PAKENHAM – 90 Murphy Rd, Pakenham

PORT MELBOURNE – Suite 2/11 Beach st, Port Melbourne (BH only)

ROWVILLE – 204 Murrindal Drive, Rowville

ROXBURGH PARK – 9 Harwood Place, Roxburgh Park

SEYMOUR – 43 Sinclair Crescent, Seymour (Please call first – 0447032560)

SUNBURY – 5 Durack court, Sunbury

SURREY HILLS – The Dog Depot, 490 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hills

TULLAMARINE – 2a Leicester Square, Tullamarine

Don’t know what to drop off? Have a look at the things we really need on our Wish List

The lily is a symbol of innocence, purity and beauty. This is why the beautiful dog you see below is called Lily.

Please note, this story contains some graphic images

Lily came to Pets Haven after what had been a very hard life so far. Trish Burke rescued Lily and below is her account:

“Lily was initially owned by a very irresponsible person; she was used as a backyard breeding dog, having litter after litter of puppies. The pathetic human who owned Lily also left her at his rental property after he moved out. Lily was left alone for a number of days without food or water. Her situation was observed by a neighbour, who started to care for Lily but had to relinquish her to their local pound.
I rescued Lily from this pound with the help of the most genuine and kind pound staff
I knew about Lily for six days prior to rescuing her; these six days were full of emotions that I had not previously experienced. I was so nervous to meet her as obviously I knew she was blind but I wanted Lily to know that I would protect and care for her. But how would or could Lily know who I was or what my intentions were?

The morning I was driving to pick up Lily, I called a beautiful friend of mine and broke down crying as I had never rescued a totally blind dog before and I did not know how Lily would accept me or how I could provide for her. Some words of encouragement were given to me; ”Even though Lily cannot see, she will feel your heart and know that she is safe”. Well, when I saw Lily and held her, I was more than sure that she felt every single beat of my heart and we immediately fell in love.
Instead of taking Lily to our shelter I took her straight home and introduced her to my two children, to whom she immediately gave many kisses. Lily maneuvered around my house as though she had lived there all her life; she was and is quite amazing.”

Although Lily is blind, we had hoped that she might see again. However, when we took her to an eye specialist at the Animal Eye Care Clinic in Malvern, he said that Lily had Glaucoma and her eyes were very badly damaged. No matter what they did she would never be able to see again. He also explained that something needed to be done soon as Lily was experiencing discomfort due to pressure behind the eyes – similar to if you or I had a constant headache.

The disappointment that was felt by everyone in the room could not be disguised, and we all stood in a stunned silence. This amazing dog, who has forgiven humans so much for the life that had been thrust upon her and who so desperately deserved to see, could not be helped? After what she had been through in her short life so far it was very hard for us all to accept.

Finally, the focus then turned to what we could do. The specialist outlined the two options: the first was a surgical procedure called Evisceration and Intrascleral Prosthesis, where the inside contents of the eye are removed and replaced with a prosthetic ball. This would leave Lily with a gray or black, non-painful eye that has no vision, but blinks and moves. The downside to this is that the eyes are still at risk of being scratched, and a blind dog is much more likely to injure their eyes. The other option was Enucleation or removal of the eye. The eyelids are then sutured closed.

It was discussed and decided that the best thing for Lily would be Enucleation performed during her de-sexing surgery.

The surgery was scheduled for Monday 18th of August 2008, and was to take around an hour. However, when the vet opened Lily up she found she also had advanced breast cancer. The vet called Pets Haven to determine how to proceed. There was no question – the vet was asked to attempt to remove the cancer and continue the surgery.

We were informed that due to the prolonged length of surgery, Lily might die. No-one was prepared for that.

After six-and-a-half hours of surgery and the loss of litres of blood, Lily made it through. After the surgery she was remarkably lively, walking around the room (although slowly) and wagging her tail. The first night was the scariest and when we got the call to say she’d made it through, tears of joy were shed by everyone involved.

Two days later Lily is still fighting to get better and you can tell she wants to be here.

Below: Day two of Lily’s recovery:

Below: Day three of Lily’s recovery

Below: Day four of Lily’s recovery

Below: Day four of Lily’s recovery -Lily drinking by herself!

Below: Waiting for her turn to eat!

Below: Lily, eyes weeping…

Below: Walking with Sally

Below: Lily’s stitches being removed

Below: Lily and her new boyfriend – Rob the volunteer!

Below: Doing well…

It is not right that such a beautiful and loving creature has had to suffer so much for no reason. So we must find reason. We believe it is to show how important early age de-sexing is. Lily is the poster girl for early age de-sexing. It is widely known that leaving a female dog (bitch) un-desexed greatly increases their risk of mammary or breast cancer as well as testicular cancer in male dogs. This has nearly cost Lily her life and has put her through enormous suffering and pain. It has also cost a small fortune in veterinary bills which, although never would have stopped the surgery from being performed, has stretched Pets Haven’s finances even further.

Lily’s recovery continues and we promise to keep you updated with her progress.

If Lily and her story has touched you the way that she has touched us, we ask of you this: please, if you have not already done so, de-sex your dog. If Lily could talk, we know that she would ask the same.

To find out how to make a donation to Lily’s surgery costs please click here. Please note: If you are donating by direct debit please type in the reference: “Lily”

To check out or buy a Lily dog toy please click here

Watch Lily’s story on youtube…

Want to see how Lily is going now? Click here to watch it on youtube…

4th January 2009 – Click for an update on Lily!

Below – 22nd February 2009 – Lily relaxing at home, enjoying life:

Lily 2010 – Happy at home with her doggy family:

What happens to the animals at Pets Haven who don’t get adopted straight away?

Don’t worry – Pets Haven has a “Pro Life” policy, which means an animal will never be euthanised for economic reasons. Our animals stay in our care for as long as necessary to find them a forever home, utilising our network of foster carers should their initial 28 days pass (as required by state law). In short, animals stay as long as necessary to find them a home!

What breed is this dog/puppy crossed with?

Sadly unless the dog/puppy is surrendered and the previous owner was able to advise us, we are generally unable to confirm cross-breeds with 100% certainty.  We do our best to estimate based on the dog’s features and personality, and will be guided by our veterinarians’ advice for paperwork etc.

Is the dog/puppy toilet trained?

Again, this will vary significantly based on the dog’s history. It is difficult to assess this in a shelter environment; however many adult dogs are (or can easily be) trained to go outside. Puppies will vary based on their age and history. If you need any advice on toilet training, we would be happy to assist.

Will they get along with my other dog?

We temperament test all of our dogs for compatibility with other dogs, and in many cases they will share an enclosure with another dog in the shelter. However, if you are unsure it’s best for you to bring your dog to the shelter to meet the prospective companion. There are also a number of steps you can take to minimise the stress of introducing a new pet; please speak to a Pets Haven staff member for more information.

Does the dog/cat get on with children?

Again, this may vary based on the dog’s history. We temperament test all of our dogs, however as we cannot use an actual child this cannot be 100% assured. We recommend you bring your children to meet the dog on a walk at the shelter, accompanied by a Pets Haven staff member.

Does the dog/cat get on with livestock, rabbits, horses, pigs, goats, guinea pigs, rats, reptiles, etc?

The short answer is, unless the dog or cat was surrendered and the previous owner has provided us with these details, we don’t know. We can do our best to estimate based on the dog’s breed, personality and temperament but there is no way to know for sure. Please discuss your particular situation with a Pets Haven staff member.

I already have a dog or cat. Which sex should I adopt to have the best chance of compatibility?

All animals adopted from Pets Haven are de-sexed. Hence we believe the gender of the animal is far less of a concern that compatible personality types and temperaments (including size, energy level, behaviours, etc.). If you are concerned about compatibility, we recommend you bring your dog to the shelter to meet the prospective companion. There are also a number of steps you can take to minimise the stress of introducing a new pet; please speak to a Pets Haven staff member for more information. (For information on how to introduce a new cat to your household click here.)

Is the animal de-sexed and checked by a vet?

Yes. Every animal that come to Pets Haven is vaccinated, microchipped, wormed, de-sexed and vet checked. This is both a legal requirement and something Pets Haven feels very strongly about. (Click here to read why you should de-sex your pet and the myths and facts of de-sexing)

What is your “refund policy” when adopting an animal?

If the animal is returned within three days for any other reason, a refund 75% of the purchase price or offer a replacement animal with the same guarantee.

If the animal dies or is euthanased as a result of a disease that is traceable to the point of sale, we will refund the purchase price or offer a replacement animal.

If the above animal is returned greater than 14 days from the adoption date, it may be accepted however no refund will be provided. A surrender fee may also be payable in accordance with relevant legislation and regulation.

In no case will secondary or consequential costs be refunded (e.g. Council registration fees, food, or veterinary care except in the abovementioned circumstances or at the sole discretion of Pets Haven).

Now I have adopted my pet, what do I do if they become unwell?

If you pet becomes unwell within seven days of adoption, please contact Pets Haven to discuss referral to our network of veterinarians. Based on the veterinarian’s findings, Pets Haven may be able to cover some or all of the associated treatment costs on a case-by-case basis.

Please note no refund of costs is available if the animal is treated by another vet without Pets Haven’s prior approval.

What do I need to do now I have adopted an animal?

Initially, you will need to register your new pet with your local council. Please check their website or speak directly to their offices for advice on fees and requirements. Registration fees are usually significantly discounted where the animal has been desexed and microchipped, which Pets Haven has already taken care of.

We suggest you take your new pet’s paperwork to your vet (including vaccination certificates provided upon adoption), where it can be held on record and a vaccination schedule established. This is also a good time to introduce your new pet to your vet, and start a relationship. If convenient, you are welcome to continue a relationship with the vet who desexed,  microchipped, vaccinated and wormed your pet prior to adoption – these details will be on your adoption paperwork (however should you require these please feel free to contact us).

What should I feed my animal?

Whilst in our care, they receive a variety of complete wet and dry foods. Cats and kittens are usually fed “Whiskers” brand as this is a good quality, widely available cat food. Dogs and puppies often receive “Nature’s Gift” and “Pedigree” wet food brands, and we fully endorse continued feeding of Nature’s Gift. For dry food, Pets Haven has a range of premium brands available, and recommends Eagle Pack especially. Serving sizes are provided on most packaging, and further advice is available from Pets Haven staff or your vet. We also supply a range of high-quality treats, ranging from Roo Chews to Paddy Whacks to Pigs Ears, all which are highly popular with our shelter patrons.

What are the grooming requirements for my pet?

Sometimes when an animal arrives at Pets Haven, their coat is in poor condition having been neglected for some time. They are groomed prior to adoption, and we can advise on any ongoing grooming requirements. We offer grooming services at our shelter, with a lifetime discount for animals adopted from Pets Haven. We also stock a wide range of grooming products, and can advise on what would best suit your pet. Just ask the staff for more information.

Can I swap my adopted pet for another one?

The answer at all times is No. We have had a few queries from people who have adopted a pet from us, a few weeks or many months has passed by when we receive telephone call asking if they could swap their cat for a kitten or the puppy they adopted has turned out to be a bit naughty and they would now like a mature dog. It is our view that adoption is for the life of the animal.  We are a registered animal shelter, we have very clear adoption terms and we will never swap an adopted pet for another.

Where is Pets Haven? How far is it from Melbourne?

Pets Haven is located in Woodend, approximately 50 minutes north-west of the Melbourne CBD (off the Calder Hwy). Please take the “Macedon / Woodend” exit, and once in Woodend turn right into the shopping centre before the BP service station. Our sign is hot pink and hard to miss! (diagonally opposite Coles).

When can I take my new pet home?

As long as their vet work has been done, you can take them home that day! In some cases, the animal may have only recently arrived at the shelter, and as such has not had the chance to be desexed, microchipped, vaccinated and wormed. In this case we can discuss a timeframe to pick them up – either from the shelter or directly from the vet (usually within a few days of adoption). We will do our best to prioritise their vet work over animals who are waiting to be adopted.

Should you have any further questions please call us on 5427 3603 or email: shelter@petshaven.com.au

We hope to see you at Pets Haven very soon!