Giving Back, One Paw at a Time

I posted to the NT in 2022 - a new chapter and a fresh start. Being on my own, I quickly realised how lonely and isolating it could be, and I was determined to get a dog for companionship. However, I soon learned that work life can make full-time pet ownership difficult, particularly when frequent travel is involved. The accommodation I was living in also wasn’t suitable for animals on a long-term basis.

That’s when I began looking into volunteering and fostering, a decision that turned out to be one of the best I’ve ever made. It allowed me to give back while still enjoying the companionship of a dog, and along the way I met some of the most incredible people in the NT. Just over four years on, I’ve fostered 42 dogs, adopted four, and volunteered in many different ways, while also discovering the amazing fundraising efforts that support animals in need across our community.

As a serving member, fostering has been the perfect balance. When I need to go away, I simply return the dog to Save a Paw, knowing they’ll continue to be loved and well cared for. People often ask whether I get attached, and many hesitate to foster for this reason. But handover day is honestly one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. Seeing a dog move on to a loving, permanent home makes it all worthwhile - especially knowing some have come from truly heartbreaking backgrounds. That’s why organisations like Save a Paw are so important.

One of my own dogs, Deano the greyhound, was adopted through Save a Paw. He was seven years old when he came into care and later became a foster fail. The adoption process was outstanding; supportive, professional, and clearly driven by a genuine commitment to animal welfare. The organisation also runs fantastic fundraisers, including a puppy yoga event last year that raised funds while creating opportunities for meet-and-greets and adoptions. Even for those not ready to foster or adopt, simply attending events like this is a great way to get involved.

Another initiative that has impressed me is HATS NT (Helping Animals to Survive), a charity shop in Coconut Grove opened by a local woman named Jade. What began as her passion project has grown into something remarkable. The shop offers high quality, affordable donations and has raised over $30,000 in its first year, with profits shared between five NT animal rescue organisations - a powerful example of how one person can make a real difference.

Now owning four greyhounds, I regularly attend the monthly greyhound walks at Nightcliff Foreshore. The greyhound community in the NT is welcoming, supportive and incredibly knowledgeable. Greyhounds are often misunderstood, but they make wonderful pets - quiet, gentle, low maintenance and full of personality, making them especially well-suited to defence families.

Through this community, I’ve also learned a great deal from Evie’s Bark, an advocacy group founded in memory of a beloved dog. Their work has deepened my understanding of animal welfare issues and the importance of advocacy in driving meaningful change.

While I’m incredibly grateful for this community, there is always a need for volunteers, foster carers, donations and advocacy. Whether you’re looking for a weekend activity, animal cuddles or a lifelong companion, I couldn’t recommend getting involved more highly.

Written by Signourney Williamson