Christmas Pet Toys that make a difference

The Petstock Foundation has launched its Christmas Project, calling on Australians to help raise more than $520,000 this festive season to support vital animal-assisted programs that deliver comfort, care and connection to those who need it most.

This year the Foundation is partnering with national volunteer-driven charities that use assistance animals to enrich the lives of people nationwide, the two primary partners being Story Dogs and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Australia.

Naomi Mancktelow from the Petstock Foundation said the campaign showcases the profound role animals play in supporting human wellbeing.

"This campaign is about helping Australians who need it most and helping them find comfort and hope through the companionship of animals," Naomi said.

"Both RDA and Story Dogs help more than 3,000 Australians every week access the unique emotional and physical benefits of animal assisted programs. But there are still hundreds of schools and families on waitlists for support from a number of assistance animal programs across Australia.

"By donating just $2 to the Petstock Foundation, you can help fund programs like RDA and Story Dogs, that bring assistance horses and reading dogs to communities across the country," Naomi said.

RDA Victoria CEO, James Lantry, said the organisation operates more than 70 centres nationwide, providing horse-assisted activities, and is determined to double the number of kids it can help by the end of 2026.

"I cannot tell you how it feels to see kids, and there are some kids with significant support needs, to see them just light up as they are lifted onto their horse for their weekly ride," James said.

"Because of that joy, we are determined in our goal, and the Foundation's Christmas Project will see more of our kids' lives enriched and changed forever.

"Our organisation is almost entirely volunteer-run, and the effect horses have on our kids is profound. Without support and funding from donations like this, our organisation would simply cease to exist. Your donation means more children will experience the joy and independence that comes from their weekly ride," James said.

Story Dogs Co Founder and Managing Director, Janine Sigley, said the demand for the reading program is higher than ever as schools see the impact on children's confidence across the country.

"Each week more than 2,900 children are involved in our program per week across over 400 schools. But even still, our waiting list is over 500 schools long.

"Children in our program relax, gain confidence and often start coming to school more regularly because they want to read with their dog. The support from the Petstock Foundation helps us reach more schools and more children waiting for their chance to take part," Janine said.

This Christmas, Australians are encouraged to give the gift of healing and help more people experience the comfort and care of assistance animals.