CANINE MASTERS 2025 BRINGS GLOBAL PET WELLNESS EXPERTS TO MELBOURNE

Amy Renze

Melbourne is set to go to the dogs - in the best possible way - when Canine Masters 2025 unites pet parents, wellness advocates and animal health professionals for a full day of inspiration, education and community.

Proudly supported by major sponsor The Pet Food Shop, the event, on November 15, is co-hosted by Phivo Christodoulou, founder of Augustine Approved, and Michelle Cummins of the Natural Pet Farmacy and STAN Pet Beds.

Together, they promise an experience that blends science, holistic care and heartfelt passion for dogs.

“We’re thrilled to launch the very first Canine Masters event, a groundbreaking experience for anyone passionate about natural canine health,” says Phivo.

“It’s a global coming together of some of the most respected minds in the field. We are absolutely delighted to announce our world-class lineup for 2025!”

A Global Line-Up

The program features an impressive roster of international and Australian experts, including:

• Rita Hogan (USA) – Clinical herbalist & author of The Herbal Dog

• Caroline Ingraham (UK) – Founder of Applied Zoopharmacognosy and the Ingraham Method of Individualised Medicine (IMIM)

• Dr Michael Dym (USA) – VMD, classical veterinary homoeopathy

• Amy Renz (USA) – CEO of Goodness Gracious

• Dr Matthew Muir (AUS) – Co-founder of Lyka & Integrative Veterinarian

• Phivo Christodoulou (AUS) – The Dog Health Guy & founder of Augustine Approved

Michelle Cummins says the event is designed to be more than just another conference. “Canine Masters is more than a conference.

It’s a leading forum for advancing canine health and wellbeing through natural, science-backed practices, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of an event that brings such valuable knowledge to our pet-loving community.”

Nature-First Pet Philosophy

For Christodoulou, the day represents a shift in the way people approach pet health.

“It’s not about competition; it’s about collaboration and community. We’re creating something special for the pet wellness industry and giving back through shared knowledge, connection and spirit,” he said.

The enthusiasm is already evident, with international attendees booking flights from Singapore and Malaysia before tickets had even gone on sale.

Speaker Insights

Rita Hogan brings decades of experience as a clinical herbalist and will highlight the nervous system’s critical role in canine health.

“Dogs’ natural resilience is being eroded, and they need more than isolated treatments. They need whole-system, individualised support. It’s summits like Canine Masters that are leading the way by teaching people how to work with nature, not against it,” she said.

Australian veterinarian Dr Matthew Muir will focus on preventative care and functional medicine, urging pet parents to adopt a proactive approach.

“We’re seeing a rise in chronic conditions, like cancer, autoimmune disease and digestive disorders. Functional medicine allows us to address these at the root level rather than simply managing symptoms, and reshape preventative pet care and outcomes,” said Dr Muir.

Event Experience

The day will run from 10 am to 4 pm, followed by an expo showcasing forward-thinking pet wellness brands. Attendees can also expect meet-and-greets, book signings, and a post-show VIP cocktail evening with speakers and sponsors.

Every ticket includes a premium showbag packed with pet health products, priced from $159.

“Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned natural health advocate, this event is welcoming, practical and packed with tools you can take home and use to add healthy years to your dog’s life,” Dr Muir said.