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Help Us Build a New Home

Evicted from our old home due to site redevelopment and now working from temporary facilities, we need a new home. By building a state-of-the-art shelter in Kurnell, we can help over 3,000 animals each year – more than double our current intake. We can be there for even more dogs and cats, kittens and puppies, who are waiting to join their forever homes! 

We have the land and cornerstone funding from NSW Government to start the build. Now we urgently need $8 million to complete the build to keep tails wagging, kittens purring and reunions happening.  

Sydney Dogs & Cats Home (SDCH) is calling on our wonderful community to help raise $8 million to build a new, state-of-the-art shelter in Kurnell. Just launched, this is our most significant appeal in nearly 80 years, and it’s crucial for us to continue our vital work of caring for thousands of lost, abandoned, and neglected animals. 

Two years ago, we were evicted from our long-term home in Carlton due to site redevelopment, and we’ve been operating from two temporary facilities ever since. These facilities are struggling to cope with the increasing number of abandoned pets, a situation worsened by post-COVID-19 circumstances and the cost-of-living crisis. 

“At Sydney Dogs & Cats Home, we’re the home of hope for animals in need,” says Melissa Penn, SDCH Managing Director. “We provide extensive medical care, love, shelter, and a chance for a better life to animals who come to us often in dire conditions. We’re an essential service to over 1.1 million Sydneysiders. But now we need the community’s support to help us build our new home.” 

Melissa adds, “We’re so close to making our new shelter a reality. We have the site and some existing funding from the government that has made this whole project viable. But unfortunately, spiralling construction costs mean we’re calling on the generosity of Sydneysiders to help us close the gap.” 

So far, we’ve secured $1.6 million from our amazing supporters for initial site preparation, architects, planning, and approvals, along with $12 million in cornerstone funding from the NSW Government. However, we still need an additional $8 million to complete the $21.6 million project. 

SDCH provides shelter, food, veterinary care, and love to thousands of animals each year. While animals are housed for up to 14 days for their owners to reclaim them, over 70% are never reclaimed, so we care for them for as long as it takes for them to be adopted. 

To donate to the Make Home Happen appeal, go here. Your donations will directly contribute to building a new shelter that will: 

  • Support over 3,000 incoming animals every year (more than double the current intake) 
  • Increase adoptions to over 2,000 annually 
  • Ensure over 1,000 lost pets are reunited with their families annually 
  • Increase foster care placements to over 800 pets awaiting adoption 
  • Expand current services to more Sydney Councils 
  • Improve Sydney’s animal welfare and management 
  • Extend community outreach programs to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable Sydneysiders in aged care and domestic violence situations, provide mental health support to various groups, and support people in criminal justice programs 
  • Offer TAFE and University students studying veterinary sciences research, training, and practical education opportunities 

For more information and to support Sydney Dogs & Cats Home to build our new home, read more here and help us build a better future for Sydney’s animals. Together, we can make a big difference! 

 

INSIGHTS: Evaluating Your Brand’s Vital Signs

How to Conduct a Brand Health Check for Your Business

Your brand is more than just a logo or a product—it’s the essence of your business and the perception that consumers have of it. Just like regular check-ups are essential for maintaining good physical health, conducting a brand health check is crucial for ensuring the long-term success and vitality of your business.

Whether, like some of partners, you are all across this or even if this is all new to you, it’s a good reminder to set aside essential time to health check your brand.

Here are some of the key steps involved in evaluating your brand’s health and diagnosing areas for improvement.

1. Define Your Brand Objectives and Metrics: Start by clearly defining what success looks like for your brand. Establish specific objectives, such as increasing brand awareness, improving customer loyalty, or expanding into new markets. Identify measurable metrics that align with these objectives, such as brand sentiment, customer satisfaction scores, or market share.

2. Assess Brand Perception: Gather feedback from key stakeholders, including customers, employees, and industry experts, to understand how your brand is perceived. Conduct surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gauge brand awareness, perception, and associations. Analyse online reviews, social media mentions, and customer feedback to identify strengths and weaknesses in brand perception.

3. Evaluate Brand Identity and Visual Assets: Review your brand’s visual elements, including logos, color palettes, typography, and imagery, to ensure consistency and alignment with your brand values and positioning. Assess how well these elements reflect your brand personality and resonate with your target audience. Consider conducting a brand audit to identify inconsistencies or areas for improvement.

4. Examine Brand Messaging and Communication: Evaluate the clarity, consistency, and relevance of your brand messaging across all touchpoints, including marketing materials, website content, social media posts, and customer communications. Assess whether your messaging effectively communicates your brand values, benefits, and unique selling proposition. Repetition and simplicity in your messaging is key to your target audience hearing you. Identify any messaging gaps or opportunities for refinement.

5. Analyse Brand Engagement and Customer Experience: Assess the quality of the customer experience at every touchpoint, from initial brand interaction to post-purchase support. Measure customer satisfaction, loyalty, and advocacy through metrics such as Net Promoter Score (NPS) and customer retention rates. Identify pain points in the customer journey and opportunities to enhance brand engagement and loyalty.

6. Aligning with Partners of Shared Values: Evaluate partnerships and collaborations with organisations that share your brand values and contribute positively to your brand image. For example, aligning with a charity like Sydney Dogs & Cats Home not only demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility and will attract and retain engaged staff, but also enhances brand perception among consumers who value animal welfare. Assess the effectiveness of these partnerships in reinforcing your brand values and reaching your target audience.

7. Benchmark Against Competitors: Compare your brand performance against competitors within your industry to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Analyse competitor positioning, messaging, visual identity, and customer perceptions to identify areas where your brand can differentiate and improve.

8. Develop an Action Plan: Based on your brand health assessment, prioritise areas for improvement and develop a comprehensive action plan. Set specific goals, strategies, and tactics for addressing identified weaknesses and capitalising on strengths. Assign responsibilities, allocate resources, and establish timelines for implementation.

I know this is topline and it’s simply meant to be food for thought. Think of it as a reminder to not let your brand health needs become overwhelming. Simply make a start in looking at some of the above. Conducting a brand health check is essential for ensuring that your brand remains relevant, competitive, and resilient in today’s marketplace.

By regularly evaluating key aspects of your brand, identifying areas for improvement, and taking proactive steps to enhance brand health, you can strengthen customer relationships, drive business growth, and position your brand for long-term success. Remember, a healthy brand is a valuable asset that requires ongoing care and attention.

Hope this helps! If you have ideas or steps you’ve taken that have helped your brand, then please share and we can include them in the next newsletter. Email me on karen.kalpage@sdch.org.au

Thank you,

Karen

Karen Kalpage

Head of Fundraising and Marketing

Sydney Dogs & Cats Home

Donut the dog says THANK YOU!

We are excited to share that Donut the dog, thanks to supporters like you, has found her forever home! Donut came to us in November 2022 as an 11-month-old who was found lost and scared wandering the streets. She was very skinny, required two major surgeries to fix the pain in her knees and she needed dental surgery to address some severe issues. Despite her health issues, Donut is an incredibly friendly dog and loves being around people, so it surprised us that it took just over a year to find her forever home.

But good things happen to good dogs who wait! Donut’s new mum Phoebe had also been patiently waiting for the perfect moment to adopt a dog, something she had been wanting to do for most of her life. As soon as she and her family moved into a new home, her hunt for the perfect dog begun late last year. Phoebe instantly fell in love with Donut’s gorgeous smile, standing out from all the photos on our website. Phoebe and Donut’s wait was worth it as they have both found their soulmate.

Donut is now living her best life and hasn’t let her multiple surgeries slow her down! She enjoys going on daily walks, going on beach adventures and frolicking in the water throughout the summer, chasing balls at the park and playing with any toy that squeaks. She quickly found her spot on the sofa which remains ‘Donut’s spot’ and learnt that the vacuum cleaner is her number one enemy.

It didn’t take Donut long to settle in at all. She is loving being around her people and playing as much as she can, showcasing her funny, clumsy and bright side.

It is because of your support; sharing our stories, emails and social media posts, and donating that allows us to help Donut and other pets like her.

Want to support more dogs like Donut? You can donate here.

Back to Work and School Routine for a Happy Dog

As the back-to-school or return-to-work season approaches, families experience a shift in their household routines. It’s time to start setting early alarms, packing school lunches and leaving the house quiet during the day. Your dog’s daily routine also will change, and they will be home alone more.  

While it’s normal for dogs to feel a little out of sorts as they adjust to this new routine, here are a few steps you can take to ease the transition: 

1. Practice your new routine before school/work starts 

Get your dog used to their new routine as soon as you can. Mimicking your back-to-school or work routine early allows your dog to gradually adjust to the change instead of making the switch abruptly. Establish a consistent routine and stick to it: 

  • Set your alarm and begin your mornings as you would on a normal school day 
  • Take your dog out for a bathroom break or walk at the same time you will on weekdays (both in the morning and evening) 
  • Practice leaving your dog alone at home for small periods to help them adjust 
  • Set their meal routine (again, both mornings and evenings) at their new times

2. Plan extra exercise in the mornings and evenings 

Even with the chaos of the daily routine starting again, your dog still needs to be exercised to keep them happy and healthy. Walking your dog in the morning gives them a chance to burn any energy and leaves them tired for a day without the company they’re used to having. Allow 30 to 45 minutes in the morning for walking, playing and interacting with the outside environment and schedule another exercise, play and/or training session with your dog in the afternoon/evening.  

3. Keep your dog mentally stimulated during the day 

 While our dogs are home alone, they like to be kept entertained. Boredom in dogs can lead to destructive behaviours and behavioural issues. Providing enrichment for your dog is one of the most important things you can do and it’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Using a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter, or a LickiMat with some Greek yoghurt can keep your dog busy for a while. Freezing them in advance can provide even more entertainment since it will take your dog longer to lick out all the deliciousness. Dogs love to chew so provide them with appropriate long-lasting chews such as bully sticks, goat horns or deer antlers.  

 You can also leave some slow music on during the day. Your dog will go from constantly hearing voices during the day to complete silence for hours. You can find some playlists for doggies on Spotify or leave the radio on.  

 4. Hire a dog walker/sign up for doggy daycare 

Maybe your schedule doesn’t allow for enough walking time in the morning, or you just don’t want your dog to spend the day alone. Enrol your dog with a local dog walker or doggy daycare.  

Back to school/work is a tough adjustment for everyone. If your dog seems to struggle with the new routine and you need help, our Pawsitive Behaviour Consultant is here to help. Contact us today for more information. 

 

Executive Insights

Overcoming tough times

By Melissa Penn, Managing Director, Sydney Dogs & Cats Home

We have experienced really hard financial times over the years, being heavily reliant on the generosity of our community of supporters to keep us going.  In recent times, with the increased cost pressure of running multiple sites, our finances looked dire and we were at risk of closure.  We had to instil some efficient and effective budget management and financial sustainability strategies immediately.  Here are 5 ways to show how we turned ourselves around. Hopefully some of these tips can help your business weather tough times too.

1. Conducted a Comprehensive Cost Audit: We began by conducting a thorough review of our current expenses. Identifying all fixed and variable costs, and categorised them based on necessity and priority.  We have always operated very leanly, but we pulled everything out that we could to minimise outgoings and strain on the organisation and developed an operating budget for each department.  This included revising our income billing structures to ensure a sustainable model was developed to not just minimise outgoings, but to maximise incomings.

2. Reviewed Organisation Chart: A problem we have always faced is not having enough resources.  However, we don’t have the funds to just keep hiring staff. So we performed a comprehensive review of our organisational structure to ensure resources were allocated efficiently.  In times of financial strain, its crucial to maximise the impact of each team member, so having the right people in the right roles is crucial.  Upskilling or cross training staff is also important to cover multiple functions, which can vary day to day.  We redistributed staff and resources to address the most critical gaps, trimming our senior leadership roles and investing more into front line areas where the biggest gaps were identified.

3. Negotiate with Suppliers and Vendors: We reviewed all our suppliers to ensure we were getting the best value and negotiated better terms, and importantly set up as many pro and low bono partnerships where possible. Many businesses are willing to discuss different forms of support, payment plans, discounts, or rebates during tough economic times. Building strong, transparent relationships with your suppliers can lead to agreements that help both parties weather financial challenges.

4. Look for Creative New Income-Generating Opportunities: In addition to cutting costs, we explored how we could innovate new income streams. This involved creating upselling opportunities, for the first-time opening Vet services to the public and other Councils, developing a new sales and merchandise range, targeting new customer and donor segments and adapting our business model.  By actively seeking new revenue sources, you can offset financial challenges and potentially discover untapped markets for your products or services. This approach focuses on not just reducing costs but also proactively driving revenue growth during challenging times. Partnerships, collaborations, and exploring emerging trends is critical.  We also tested new segments and used data to inform and guide where we invest funds in marketing and promoting to help with revenue growth.

5. System Efficiencies and Continual Improvement:  It is important that we focus on continual improvement opportunities, not just to ensure we are providing the highest quality of care for our animals, but to ensure we are working efficiently to maximise our limited resources.  This included investing in systems to enhance productivity and promote resource efficiencies. Regular reassessing and refining processes ensures our systems stay agile and are responsive to our changing and growing business needs.

Our partners are important to us. I think it’s important to continue sharing with each other trends, tips, what’s working, and what isn’t, so we can continue to build and strengthen each other and our wonderful community who continue to help lost and abandoned pets.

Thank you,

Melissa

Managing Director
Sydney Dogs & Cats Home

Partner Perspectives: Benny Button

Sydney Dogs & Cats Home partner Benny Button kicks off our Partner Perspective Series with an article on mindfulness to help your staff start their year right:

Being Mindful when ‘Busyness’ is back!

Most of us are coming out of what has hopefully been a restful and replenishing holiday season. But now it’s back to work and the resumption of the ‘norm’ where our modern lives and workplaces are busier than ever.

Before we know it demanding workloads and numerous responsibilities will be filling our calendars and to-do lists to the brink of bursting. The constant flow of information, email, and media competing for our attention at all hours of the day resumes. It’s not hard to see that we can become so busy being busy that we lose sight of what is most important to us, or even lose our sense of self and connection with others.

Our brains do their best to cope with these demands by setting habits of thinking, feeling, deciding and behaving that aim to help us handle our workloads and the high expectations we place on ourselves. It’s like having ‘default settings’ in our brains that guide us to navigate our daily experiences as if we are on autopilot mode.

We can all benefit from making time to slow down and tune into what’s important. We can reawaken our awareness and focus our attention on what matters – taking action mindfully. What’s more, we can practise doing this – even train this capability – because ‘busyness’ has become the default setting and our brains are switching into autopilot mode in an attempt to cope with the demand. This process is mindfulness, and it is something research shows us is incredibly valuable.

While the above context is serious stuff, we can have some fun learning ways to practice mindful awareness and building our attention skills. We can enjoy the process of firing, wiring, and rewiring our brain’s default settings and switching off our autopilot – all while experiencing novel and interesting experiences.

Here are five practical ways to practice mindfulness, each with clear action steps:

1. Mindful Breathing Breaks:

Action: Schedule short breaks (1 to 5 minutes) throughout your workday. During these breaks, focus solely on your breathing. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take deep, slow breaths. Concentrate on the sensation of air entering and leaving your nostrils, and the rise and fall of your chest. If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath. If you would like an example of a practice watch this instructional video from Dr. Adrian Medhurst. Take a mindful breather

2. Mindful Eating:

Action: Choose one meal or snack each day to eat mindfully. Turn off all distractions like TV or smartphones. Pay attention to the colors, textures, smells, and flavors of your food. Chew slowly, savoring each bite and noticing the sensations and tastes. If you’re up for it take some time to reflect on the journey of the food – from where it was grown to how it was prepared.

3. Mindful Walking:

Action: Dedicate 10-15 minutes a day to go for a mindful walk. This can be done during a break at work or in your neighborhood. Walk slowly and deliberately, noticing each step and the sensations in your feet and legs. Observe your surroundings – the sights, sounds, and smells. Use this time to connect with the environment, allowing your mind to focus on the present moment. Did you know ‘Awe Walking is a thing? Curious? Take a look at this article.

4. Gratitude Journaling:

Action: Each evening, spend a few minutes writing down three things you are grateful for that day. These can be simple things like a sunny day, a productive meeting, or a kind gesture from a colleague. This practice helps to shift focus from the day’s stresses and cultivate a mindset of appreciation and positivity.

5. Mindful Listening:

Action: During conversations, practice fully focusing on the person talking. Put away any distractions, maintain eye contact, and listen without planning your response. Notice the person’s expressions and tone. Be present in the conversation, acknowledging the other person’s feelings and perspectives. This not only enhances your mindfulness but also strengthens your relationships.

Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help in managing stress, enhancing focus, and maintaining a connection with the present moment as ‘busyness’ kicks back into gear.

Troy Mansell

Co-Founder & Director

Benny Button

www.bennybutton.com

Want to learn more? Talk to Troy at hello@bennybutton.com 

**Benny Button partners with Sydney Dogs & Cats Home to assist staff with wellbeing as well as donating to help lost and unwanted pets.

Caring for Senior Pets

Senior pets, especially senior rescue pets, can be some of the most loving and loyal companions you’ll ever have. While they may have a few more grey hairs and a bit of wear and tear, these golden oldies can bring immense joy into your life. Caring for senior pets requires some special attention and understanding to ensure their golden years are comfortable and happy. Here are our top tips for taking care of senior rescue pets.

  1. Vet Visits Are Essential
    Regular veterinary check-ups become even more critical as pets age. Make sure your senior rescue pet has a comprehensive examination at least once a year. These check-ups can help detect and address age-related health issues such as arthritis, dental problems, and organ function decline. If you’re in the Sydney area, you might be pleased to know that the Sydney Dogs & Cats Home now offers vet services to the public, providing expert care for your senior pet. Discuss with one of our friendly vets or with your vet about any specific concerns related to your senior pet’s breed or history. It’s a wonderful way to ensure your beloved companion’s golden years are filled with health and happiness.

  2. Proper Nutrition
    Senior pets often require specialised diets to support their changing nutritional needs. Your vet can recommend senior pet food with lower calories to prevent obesity and supplements that might aid in joint health. Feeding them a balanced and age-appropriate diet can help manage common senior issues such as weight gain and dental problems.

  3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
    Senior pets are more prone to obesity, which can exacerbate age-related health problems. Be mindful of portion control and monitor your pet’s weight regularly. Exercise them appropriately to keep their muscles and joints in good shape. Consult your vet for advice on the best exercise regimen for your senior rescue pet.

  4. Provide Comfort and Mobility
    Older pets can struggle with arthritis and joint pain. Make their lives more comfortable by providing soft bedding and keeping their living environment warm. You might also consider installing ramps or steps to help them reach their favourite spots without straining their joints.

  5. Dental Care
    Dental health is a common issue in senior pets. Periodontal disease can lead to pain and even systemic health problems. Brushing your pet’s teeth and providing dental chews can help maintain their oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial to address any dental issues promptly.

  6. Mental Stimulation
    Senior pets, just like their human counterparts, can benefit from mental stimulation. Engage them with interactive toys, puzzles, and gentle play. This not only keeps their minds active but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet.

  7. Grooming and Hygiene
    Maintain a regular grooming routine to keep your senior pet’s coat clean and tangle-free. Older animals may struggle to groom themselves effectively, and mats or tangles can be uncomfortable. Additionally, check for lumps, bumps, or unusual skin conditions during grooming sessions to detect potential health issues.

  8. Medication and Supplements
    Some senior pets may require medication or supplements to manage chronic health conditions. Administer these as directed by your veterinarian and keep a close eye on any side effects or changes in their condition.
     
  9. Patience and Understanding
    Senior rescue pets may have experienced trauma or neglect in their past. Be patient and understanding of their behaviour. They may require time to adapt to their new home and build trust. Show them love, kindness, and consistency in your interactions.

  10. Addressing Increased Anxiety
    As pets age, they may experience increased anxiety, which can be attributed to various factors such as changes in their routine, cognitive decline, or past traumas. It’s essential to recognise that anxiety is normal for some senior pets and to address it proactively. If you notice signs of anxiety, like restlessness, excessive panting, or withdrawal, consult your veterinarian. They can recommend strategies to help alleviate your pet’s stress, which may include behavioural training, environmental modifications, or, in some cases, medication. Remember, understanding and addressing your senior rescue pet’s anxiety can significantly improve their overall well-being and quality of life. 

  11. Regular Love and Attention
    Last but certainly not least, shower your senior rescue pet with love and attention. Spend quality time together, offer affection, and cherish the moments you have with your furry friend. Senior pets have a lot of love left to give, and the bond you build with them in their golden years can be incredibly rewarding.  

Caring for senior rescue pets is a rewarding and compassionate choice. These older animals often have so much love to give, and by following these top tips, you can ensure they enjoy their senior years to the fullest. Remember, adopting a senior pet not only changes their life but can also enrich yours in ways you never imagined.

Love senior pets but don’t have one yourself? You can support the senior pets who come into the care of Sydney Dogs & Cats Home by donating to the Senior Pet Project. Click here to make a donation today.

Adventures of Jigglypuff: From Pokémon Battles to a Triumph of Resilience!

Meet our incredible feline friend, Jigglypuff, whose journey has been nothing short of extraordinary! This adorable kitty, not from the Pokémon world, has faced hardships but has emerged as a shining example of resilience.

Upon arriving at Sydney Dogs & Cats Home, we discovered that Jigglypuff had a previously broken leg that had healed improperly, causing discomfort. Our amazing vet team made the tough decision to amputate his leg and the tip of his tail, suggesting he might have had a fierce Pokémon battle before finding his way to us!

During his recovery, Jigglypuff found comfort in a foster home, embracing life as a tripod kitty with determination and courage. This little fighter made an incredible recovery and now showcases his vibrant personality for all to see.

Don’t let his missing leg fool you—Jigglypuff is an unstoppable force of joy! He loves chasing toys and playing with fellow feline friends. We are pleased to share that Jigglypuff found his forever home last month, and he is being showered with patience, understanding, and unconditional love. Jigglypuff’s new family appreciates his unique spirit and provides him with a safe indoor haven, so no more Pokémon battles ensue!

Jigglypuff’s transformation wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of our incredible community. Your generosity enables us to provide vital treatment and care to precious creatures like Jigglypuff. Together, we can make a difference!

Published: 4 August 2023

Adoption Success Story: Herbie

Herbie the cat (formerly known as Kawaii), is a feline with a striking panther-like appearance that immediately catches your attention. However, his sweet and affectionate nature is what truly captures your heart. Herbie found himself at Sydney Dogs & Cats Home in November of last year. He required an extended stay to receive treatment for dental disease and address his hyperthyroidism. Once he made a recovery from surgery and his hyperthyroidism was improving, Herbie embarked on his journey to find his forever home.

At the age of 10, the shelter environment was far from ideal for this cat who longed for sunny spots, playful toys, and the warm companionship of a human family. Fortunately, Herbie’s wait for a loving family didn’t last long. In late March, Ella and her family stepped forward and welcomed him into their lives with open arms. The adoption was a perfect fit, especially since they already had another 10-year-old black cat named Gary.

From the moment Herbie joined the family, he and Ella formed a strong bond. Herbie seems to be Ella’s constant companion, following her wherever she goes in the house. Even while Ella works from home, he finds comfort in his cat bed beneath her desk, complete with a cosy heat pack during the winter months.

Living a life of luxury like any cat deserves, Herbie even spends every night sleeping in the human bed with his cat sibling Gary. Apart from looking like a panther, Herbie also has some human tendencies and tucks himself into bed under the blankets and rests his little head on the pillow.

Ella happily reports that Herbie’s presence has had a positive impact on Gary, making him a happier cat. With his funny, cuddly, and chatty personality, Herbie has become an adored member of the family. Ella and her family can’t help but adore him and express how much they love him.

With his panther-like allure and endearing nature, Herbie has found his place in a loving home, making it clear that he was meant to be there all along.

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