Denise’s commitment was solidified when she met Joan Gladys Rawson B.E.M, the organisation’s trailblazing founder.
“From the humblest of beginnings, Miss Rawson’s tenacity gripped hold and there’s been no letting go!” she recalls. “There was a pull from a very early age. Dogs in need attracted me to the Dogs’ Homes, and Miss Rawson was waiting.”
Denise became a Director of Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania in 1977 and has held multiple leadership roles over the decades, including Secretary, Treasurer and Vice President. She was awarded Honorary Life Membership in 2014.
Denise has also been hands-on in organising fundraising events like the Annual Button Day, coordinating midyear and Christmas appeals, managing the Canine Commendation Awards, and producing the annual calendar featuring hundreds of adopted dogs each year.
“In these roles, I always received help and support from other volunteers,” she says. “A team effort, supporting one another in working for the dogs in our care.”
Denise has worked to support the building and upgrades of the Dogs’ Homes located at Burnie, Devonport, Hobart and Launceston, and her greatest joy remains seeing dogs find loving, permanent homes.
“It is in giving we receive and every dog we help, every improvement made at the Dogs’ Homes – either in direct care for the dogs, improvements to the Homes or working with others to help dogs – is a joy!” she says.
What makes the Dogs’ Homes community so special for Denise is its shared devotion.
“Some of our staff and volunteers have served Tasmania’s beautiful dogs for decades,” she says. “We’ve walked together in good and difficult times. When facing challenges, we always ask, ‘What’s best for the dog?’ We work together to make that happen, year after year.”
Even after decades of service, Denise remains motivated by one clear reason: “Dogs still needing help.”
While awareness around animal welfare has grown, Denise acknowledges there’s still much to be done. “We want to be the best friends to dogs in Tasmania and that means every dog.”
Also, Denise believes the impact of volunteering, especially over the long term, extends well beyond the individual.
“If you feel passionate about a particular cause, do what you can for as long as you feel you are meant to contribute,” she says. “A benefit to the organisation is us having a background of understanding and experiences to call on as we continue to go forward doing our best for the dogs who need us.”
Maddie volunteers at Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ), where she spends her spare time caring for cats and helping behind the scenes at the shelter
“I love animals, and I had time on my hands outside of swimming,” Maddie says. “I was already volunteering at Arundel Park Riding for Disabled, so I thought—why not spend more time doing something I love?”
Maddie’s day at the shelter is a busy one.
“When I arrive, I put my backpack in the cat kitchen and head up to the laundry, where I clean the litter trays, the food and water bowls, and the carriers—which can take up to nearly an hour depending on how much there is,” she explains. “I take the furniture outside to clean the cat fur off, then clean the rooms or pods. When things slow down, I spend some time with the cats and feed them.”
Spending time with the animals has been an emotional outlet for Maddie.
“I enjoy working with animals because they don’t judge you and can tell if you’re not having a good day,” she says. “I remember having a rough day at the end of last year, and being able to sit with the cats and pat them made me feel better.
“Volunteering has helped me because I can get away from things that may be affecting me at home or in the pool. Just being with the cats puts a smile on my face. Also, I am not the most social person, but to meet people who I volunteer with that have basically become my best friends is a really good reward for me.”
Maddie says animals have a lot to teach us.
“We as humans definitely should learn from animals because they teach us a lot of things that go on in life, and definitely about care and compassion. Because if you treat animals right, you should be able to treat other humans right as well,” she says.
Jocelyn’s connection to Lort Smith began in the 1960s, when her family’s first dog, Jamie (a stray she brought home covered in fleas) was in urgent need of veterinary care. Unable to pay the full cost up front, Jocelyn was told by Lort Smith she could pay in instalments. That gesture of compassion planted a seed.
“I always said, when I retire I’ll be doing what I can to help dogs,” she recalls. “That moment stayed with me.”
Jocelyn began her volunteer journey in 1996 and has since done just about everything —from knitting dog coats, blankets and enrichment toys, to handcrafting festive bone and fish-shaped Christmas bags and even button-eared sausage dogs that were a hit with kids and pet lovers alike.
Her creations were sold to raise funds for the hospital, with profits in the thousands during peak years. “Anything that could make a few dollars for the animals, I made it,” says Jocelyn.
Though no longer volunteering onsite due to health and mobility challenges, Jocelyn continues to sew and craft from home, raising money with the support of her community—friends who donate fabric, supplies and funds to help her efforts.
Jocelyn’s story is also one of resilience. A former nurse and cancer survivor, she has powered through breast cancer, two knee replacements, a broken neck and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic — all without losing her spark or sense of purpose.
When lockdowns restricted visits to Lort Smith, the pharmacy team brought her supplies so she could continue her volunteer work from home.
For Jocelyn, volunteering has always been about more than simply raising money—it’s about being there for animals in need.
“Animals never judge you. They don’t care how you look or what you’ve been through—they just know how to love,” she says. “I do things where I feel help is needed. I feel animals need me.”
Over the years, the Ford family adopted several dogs who lived long and happy lives, including their current “golden oldie,” Maple, a Chihuahua–Jack Russell cross. Then in 2016, Jean met a vet nurse who worked at Lort Smith and encouraged her to apply as a volunteer.
“I had just retired and wanted to give something back, preferably doing clerical work because of my professional background. but I ended up doing a shift in the laundry. After my first day, I said, ‘I can’t do it’... and I’m still doing the laundry!” she laughs.
Now at the age of 75, Jean volunteers at Lort Smith two mornings a week — and it’s hard work!
“You are forever lifting, filling machines and dryers, stocking shelves and taking out rubbish,” she says. “It can be smelly washing towels and blankets from beds and cages, as well as drapes from the operating theatre. It’s always busy, but it’s very rewarding. I’ve been behind a desk for years, so I do enjoy this. It keeps me fit.”
For Jean, the true impact of her volunteering is about supporting people and their pets when they need it most.
“My volunteer contribution can help people less fortunate access discounted veterinary care. Without Lort Smith, many wouldn’t be able to get their pets treated and that’s what I want to support,” she says.
One of Jean’s most memorable moments at Lort Smith was meeting a Staffy who had come from a backyard breeder and had cigarette burns on her back.
“I was very sad and angry, but I knew she had been rescued and would go to a lovely home. There would be no more suffering. It was a nice, sunny day after that. Made me go back and do more laundry!” she says.
Over the years, Jean has also made many friendships through volunteering.
“Volunteering has created a real feeling of community. It gives me satisfaction to be able to give back, and it’s rewarding to know I can do something to help out,” she says.
Monty came to the Kelly family at four months old and quickly showed everyone who’s boss.
“We were worried how a tiny cat would be in our household with three Kelpies, but he has no fear and is the one doing the tormenting! The dogs can't catch a break sometimes!” laughs Kate Kelly.
With his fearless attitude, Monty soon made the restaurant his second home, quickly earning the title of Chief Napper.
“Monty was always going to be the office cat. It's a good distraction for us and our staff and he loves getting out of the house,” says Kate.
“We have his second home set up there with beds, toys etc. I spend a lot of time at the office, so he likes sleeping in the window and walking over my keyboard! It's better for him than being home on his own and it gives the dogs a break and him a break. The office is also a storage space for extra furniture and our PA equipment for our production company, so there's plenty of things for him to play with and explore.”
Plus, everyone loves Monty!
“People often drop past to see him during the day as they know where he is. Monty also keeps the staff entertained during the quiet periods and on their breaks,” she says.
All of Kate’s pets play an important part in their life at home and business.
“All of our pets are rescues and we've had all of them since pups, so we've been able to raise them as a part of our family and they go everywhere with us: camping, boating, traveling. We are outnumbered by pets in our house!” she laughs.
“Our three dogs (Milo, Loki and Sophie) have also always taken turns to join us at work, so customers always expect a pet to be roaming around!”
Although Monty cannot be in the main venue - as there's no way to contain him - he does get to explore the place when the work is done, and staff is winding down from a busy night.
“The staff love seeing Monty and his antics. Perhaps down the track we may set up a catio for him during the cooler months so he can hang with the dogs in the alfresco,” she adds.
“The three dogs work at the gate with security at night, and everyone loves patting them on their way in; they get loads of love. It does sometimes take more time to get people out of the venue when we close as everyone wants to make sure they pat the dogs before they leave! Some people even get down on their bed with them and give them hugs! It keeps the crowd more subdued, and everyone just loves the dogs roaming through the crowd. Especially Loki as he's a red cloud Kelpie so you just hear "Red Dog!" being yelled through the venue. He is famous up here!”
It's not uncommon for businesses in Pilbara to have dogs wandering around, especially in the yards of the industrial areas. It may be less common to see a cat, but Kate thinks that may change!
“Monty has been raised with the dogs, so he doesn't know any different. He's very adventurous and not happy that he's stuck inside at the moment, watching the dogs outside through the front door,” says Kate.
Once Monty is a bit older, he'll be out camping with Kate and her family and maybe even boating!
“His harness training has been going very well! He gets his second vaccination next month so his adventures can begin properly,” says Kate.
Find out more about our member in Western Australia, SAFE Inc
Maz says pets are often in the office at Triple M Central Coast and staff are encouraged to bring their dogs into work any day of the week. This year, Triple M also hosted their first ever Puppy Bowl, a local spin on the Puppy Bowl which is hosted in the USA around the NFLs super bowl.
“The idea being whichever puppy went to the Puppy Bowl first won! We had our listeners represented by each pup and the winner walked away with $500!” said Maz.
Having her dog Happy at work also brings a smile to everyone’s face.
“He gets lots of pats and attention which he loves, and he gets to hang out with me during the day!” she says.
Happy came to Maz’s family as a rescue.
“We adopted Happy after my dad passed away, so he’s been a bit of a grief dog for me,” she said. “My son Henry just produced the name when we asked him what he would name a dog if we were to get one!
“Happy is almost 2 years old now and loves his daily walks with Mum (me). We also have four chickens that Happy loves rounding up in the yard. He loves Greek yoghurt, licky-mats as a treat and running free at the off-lead beach near our house. He is super social, although he has a strong dislike for our postman!"
Maz said she “absolutely love it when my colleagues brings their pet in to work. Of course, you need to be mindful that it is a good fit, the environment and the pup, to ensure that it’s a positive experience for all involved.”
Rosie had come into Sheila's life more than seven years ago as a rescue, a Mother's Day gift from her daughter. Sheila’s days had been filled with Rosie's playful energy and loyal companionship and losing her was heartbreaking. So, she decided to call SAFE Inc, Companion Animal Network Australia’s member in Western Australia, hoping to adopt a cat.
"Have you got a cat?" Sheila asked on the phone. SAFE Founder Sue Hedley OAM responded, "We have hundreds of them!" But fate had a different plan for Sheila. Just an hour before her call, SAFE had taken in a 10-year-old Jack Russell cross named Sookie. Sookie belonged to an elderly man who could no longer care for her.
When Sue shared Sookie’s story, Sheila felt a spark of hope thinking of the dog’s resemblance to Rosie. The adoption process moved swiftly, when Donna, a SAFE representative in Exmouth, visited Sheila to ensure the match was suitable. Reassured that Sookie would be in good hands with Sheila, Sookie embarked on the six-hour car ride from Karratha to Exmouth.
Sookie was a little nervous when she arrived, but as soon as she stepped paws into Sheila’s cozy home, the Jack Russell began to settle in, and her loving nature shined through.
“She is the perfect companion,” said Sheila, enjoying Sookie’s affectionate licks that fill her heart with warmth. “She likes her steak and chicken and enjoys cuddling and sleeping with me!”
Sookie's playful and loving personality has brought joy, comfort and companionship back into Sheila's life. They found each other at the perfect time, when they needed it most.
BUPA New Farm doesn’t house permanent pets, says Tara; however the facility is fortunate to have regular visits from Benson the cat, a therapy dog named Ruby and Tara’s own canine companion, Sunny.
“The positive impact of the animals on both the residents and the staff is profound. I love seeing the smiles and the resident and staff interaction with the animals,” she says.
One little Maltese in particular, Olly, has brought much joy to the community, especially Tara! When Olly’s owner Barry moved into the aged care home, he faced the heartbreaking realisation that he was unable to look after his dog full-time. He was also worried about Olly being alone during his doctors' appointments and hospital visits.
Barry’s son initially tried to take care of Olly, but his busy schedule made it difficult to provide Olly with the attention and care he needed. Barry was desperate to find a loving home for Olly, and that's when Tara met the little dog.
“As soon as I met Olly, I fell in love with him,” she says. “I could also feel how stressed Barry was about having to re-home Olly. So, I decided to adopt him!”
It has been over a year since Olly joined Tara’s family, becoming fast friends with Sunny, and comes to work with Tara three days a week.
“Barry is over the moon that he gets to see his little mate Olly regularly. All the residents and staff also love him,” says Tara. “Olly is so excited when he knows he is visiting Barry. I open the front door and he runs straight to Barry’s room. It makes me happy to know they can still see each other.”
Barry and Olly’s reunion is always heartwarming, a testament to the unbreakable bond they share. Other pets like Benson, Ruby and Sunny also bring a unique kind of magic into the lives of the residents and staff, reminding everyone of the simple pleasures of companionship and the healing power of unconditional love.
And for Tara, adopting Olly has been one of the best decisions she’s ever made. His story is a beautiful reminder that love knows no bounds.
BUPA Aged Care in New Farm Pet Friendly Aged Care
The presence of animals brings an extra layer of warmth and joy to the lives of aged care residents at Snug Village in Tasmania. A part of Christian Homes Tasmania (CHT), Snug Village offers permanent and respite residential care in a “comfortable, scenic and respectful” environment that welcomes all pets, as long as they are kept under control.
Snug Village Care Coordinator Kathy Coad says dogs need to be on a lead to prevent them running around and becoming a tripping hazard, while cats should be in a box or on a little harness.
“Renee, our leisure and lifestyle team member, brings in her cat on a harness, and it’s wonderful!” says Kathy.
Sadly, Snug Village’s resident cat passed away, leaving fish and pet birds living at the facility. There have also been visits from Guide Dogs, pet dogs and cats, alpacas, ponies and plenty of sheep!
In a staff spotlight, Kathy says, “I’m an animal lover and have a small farm. I like to bring in my animals. I brought a sheep, her name is Ruby, to Snug. She made it [on ABC TV]. She’s a hand-reared triplet - when they’re hand reared, they’re like dogs, you can lead them around. She was a little confused about the windows, but otherwise, she was fine visiting for three hours.
“My daughter has horses. So, we came [to Snug Village] with a miniature pony once – it walked through the facility. I’ve bought all sorts of animals, ducks and chickens - the only thing I haven’t brought are pigs.”
Animal visitors aren’t just for fun, they provide important holistic care for residents, says Kathy in the staff spotlight.
“We’re always making improvements to our facilities and services for the residents. They can ask for anything and we’ll try and support that. Because we're in Snug, we have a lot of people who have lived in the country. There are a lot of the residents who are ex-farmers and they haven’t seen farm animals in a long time. It’s nice for them to have some of the farm back and to chat about it.
One of the most cherished memories at Snug Village was a wedding ceremony for a pair of budgies! The residents had the idea and had great fun arranging the event, which their chaplain officiated.
“That wedding was really well accepted by everybody,” Kathy recalls. “The residents show a lot of interest in the budgies. They all want to feed them and talk to them, especially when they’re having a bit of a squawk.”
Kathy is a strong advocate for allowing pets in residential aged care facilities.
“It's especially beneficial for country people who have always had animals in their lives. When we had a cat, someone always looked after it. A cat can just curl up and go to sleep on anyone’s bed. That’s why I like bringing them so much. They bring so much pleasure to the residents’ lives.
“I think pets are great! I encourage it and I will bring animals (to Snug) when I can.”
Liz Small, Engagement Lead at Eastern Innovation said, “We recognised that workers and pets spent a lot more time together during the pandemic, meaning that coming back to the office was likely to be a challenge for many people and their employers. We wanted to remove this hurdle for people to get out of home and co-work.”
Accordingly, Eastern Innovation collaborated with CANA to produce a pet-friendly policy for the business owners and teams who tenant the region’s innovation centre.
“The goal was to get people back in the workspace with a robust policy, prepared by a team of pet experts, that created an environment few other flexible working spaces could offer,” she said.
“Pets primarily reside in the offices of their owners, and we have wonderful outdoor spaces where they can relax too. Pets make Eastern Innovation a happier workplace and we welcome more pets in the centre. The pets also love the attention and pats, and the owners enjoy the attention their pets get. Clients with pets seem to be in the office more regularly.”
The company initially had some people who were anti pets in the office, but showing the pet friendly policy and procedures that pets would be under made them feel more comfortable, said Liz.
“Having a pet friendly office is also a fabulous sales tool. Most people say that’s amazing. It’s a nice tool in our engagement with our new potential clients,” she said.
“Other staff that like pets but do not have any of their own get the opportunity to connect with an animal at work. It also aids with connection between our clients.
“We support our clients with pets by providing spaces for their animal and guidelines for the centre. Partnering with CANA provided us with the foundation (the policy) to ensure that we could invite pets into the centre knowing that their owners understood the requirements. This also helped with the clients that did not want pets in the centre as they have not been affected by the pets.”
