My love for dogs is immense. This passion led me to run a doggy day care and pet sitting business from my home in Echuca, VIC, Australia. I live with cancer, type 1 diabetes, carcinoid syndrome, diabetic neuropathy, and chronic pain which led me to leave my career in HR; this home-based service keeps me active, engaged, and helps pet owners in the community.

My pet minding business is registered and insured, with over 40 clients and currently 44 five star reviews.

However, current local regulations make it difficult for businesses like mine to operate from home, stifering opportunities for individuals who, like me, find solace and therapy in taking care of dogs.

The Campaspe Shire has sent a notice to comply, to shut down my small business effective 23rd of October as per the Victorian Planning Laws stating that Animal Boarding is not permitted in residential areas.

Home-based pet care services not only provide a necessary solution for working or holidaying pet owners, but they also create job opportunities for individuals with similar circumstances.

According to the RSPCA, 62% of Australian households own pets, with 38% of them being dogs. However, busy work schedules, an increase of pet ownership, and the rising trend of holidaying has resulted in a growing need for reliable pet care services. In-home services like mine create a more personalised and less stressful environment for these animals, reducing anxieties associated with traditional boarding kennels.

Echuca/Moama is a tourist hot spot, with more and more people travelling with their pets. The demand for reliable and trustworthy pet sitters is increasing every year. Campaspe Shire should be enabling small businesses in the area, especially those that offer dual services to locals and the tourism sector.

Appealing to the Echuca, VIC council, we request a revision of the regulations associated with running home-based pet-care services. By altering current policies, we can cater to the growing demand for these services while creating opportunities for individuals who find joy, therapy, and employment in taking care of our four-legged friends. Please, help counter this barrier to compassionate and inclusive growth in our community. We urge you to sign this petition.