By Anitra Jackson

Tragically last year our dog Princess Evie was killed under the care of a pet boarding facility.

It was an unimaginable tragedy for us to face.

We share with you a story of sadness, courage, inspiration and hope – one that reflects the true spirit of an Australian canine, because we want to make sure what happened to our Evie, never happens to another pet.

This story is in loving memory of Princess Evie, a dog who had a way of making even the most ordinary moments special for everyone she met.

She was not just a pet; she was a beloved family member. Her days were filled with happiness, enjoying daily walks, smelling flowers, going on car rides, running on the beach, and trips to Bunnings.

Evie supported students at her family’s karate club, always bringing a smile to those around her. She adored cuddling up on the couch with her favourite toys, and her fascination with TV was unforgettable. Especially The Dog House on Channel 10, and Animal Muster on ABC.

While attending a close family funeral interstate, Evie suffered a brutal attack at a boarding facility that ultimately claimed her life. Her devastating loss bought to light a significant issue; the absence of regulations governing the pet boarding industry in the Northern Territory.

There is currently no regulatory body for pet boarding businesses, no mandatory licencing, and no established code of practice to ensure the safety and well-being of pets in this industry.

Out of sadness we created Evie’s Bark in her honour and memory, to advocate for stricter regulations in the fast growing pet boarding industry, not just in the NT, but across the country.

We hope it will be Evie’s legacy to save the lives of innocent pets, and will serve as the “bark” for past victims and their families, raising awareness about the urgent need for reform.

Evie’s Bark is petitioning through change.org urging the NT Legislative Assembly to implement urgent regulations and include pet boarding facilities into the Animal Welfare Act.

This campaign seeks to highlight the growing demand for change, advocate for stronger protection for pets and ensure their welfare is taken seriously in the NT.

In addition, the petition advocates for the recognition of animals as sentient beings, acknowledging they have their own needs, emotions and rights, and that pets should not be classed as just property and possessions but are companions and family.

The petition will close on the March 13th, the anniversary of Princess Evie’s tragic death, and it will then be presented to NT Parliament by member for Goyder Andrew Mackay.

Princess Evie was chosen as the only NT finalist in the Puppy Tales Photography Australian Dog of the Year competition.

Puppy Tales searched the nation, looking for dogs that have made an incredible impact in the lives of people, other animals, or the environment to award.

For her incredible legacy and significant advocacy work for animal welfare that has been done in her name through Evie’s Bark, she was made a finalist.

If she wins, Desexing Assistance and Community Support NT is the charity we selected to receive her prize money.

DACS is a non-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness, and supporting crucial work, in animal welfare across the NT. Their efforts include subsidising desexing programs, and offering vital support and ensuring a better future for both pets and their guardians.

The winners will be announced on Australia Day.

You can show your support by signing her petition.

Her family hopes that Princess Evie’s memory will continue to inspire, and her spirit will forever remind us of the unconditional love and companionship that pets bring into our lives.

Evie’s Bark will carry on raising awareness and inspiring the much needed change ensuring safety, regulation and respect our pets deserve.

For more information visit the Evie’s Bark Facebook page.