The Times Australia
Google AI
The Times Magazine

.

The Ultimate Pet Handbook



An essential guide for young people with a passion for pets 

“As you read this book it will soon be obvious that Ben Dessen is no ordinary individual. From a very young age Ben has had a fascination with animals of all kinds. He has the greatest enthusiasm for the conservation of not only Australian wildlife, but for many other species that find themselves close to extinction,” foreword by Dr Harry Cooper BVSC OAM. 

From the tiniest ant to the largest whale in the ocean, Ben Dessen cannot remember a time when he wasn’t fascinated by animals. Pets make great companions and loyal friends. They love and accept us just the way we are. Growing up with pets teaches us how to be more gentle, patient, and kinder to others. Opening our homes and hearts to pets can also help us care more about wildlife and the environment. 

Bringing a pet into your life can be the best experience ever, but it is one you need to take very seriously and carefully plan for. Whether you’re looking to get your first pet, or you’re an animal lover thinking about getting your next pet, this book is the ultimate tool for you. 

You’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect Pet Proposal to pitch to the adults in your life. Learn about awesome animals for you and your family to love in the Pet Profiles – from cats, dogs and guinea pigs to lizards, snakes, and turtles, and from stick insects to birds and fish.  By understanding what an animal needs, you’ll be able to give your special friend a safe, happy and healthy life. 

Ben Dessen has travelled widely to see first-hand how different animals are surviving in the world and holds a degree in Animal Science and Conservation Biology. He is a manager of one of the most modern and diverse pet stores in Australia and looks after the Reptile Department overseeing a collection of 300 reptiles, which has set the benchmark for the pet industry in Australia and around the world. 

Times Magazine

Freak Weather Spikes ‘Allergic Disease’ and Eczema As Temperatures Dip

“Allergic disease” and eczema cases are spiking due to the current freak weather as the Bureau o...

IPECS Phone System in 2026: The Future of Smart Business Communication

By 2026, business communication is no longer just about making and receiving calls. It’s about speed...

With Nvidia’s second-best AI chips headed for China, the US shifts priorities from security to trade

This week, US President Donald Trump approved previously banned exports[1] of Nvidia’s powerful ...

Navman MiVue™ True 4K PRO Surround honest review

If you drive a car, you should have a dashcam. Need convincing? All I ask that you do is search fo...

Australia’s supercomputers are falling behind – and it’s hurting our ability to adapt to climate change

As Earth continues to warm, Australia faces some important decisions. For example, where shou...

Australia’s electric vehicle surge — EVs and hybrids hit record levels

Australians are increasingly embracing electric and hybrid cars, with 2025 shaping up as the str...

The Times Features

How hot is too hot? Here’s what to consider when exercising in the heat

If you like to exercise outdoors, summer gives you more chance to catch the daylight. It’s often...

Vendor Advocacy Fees

Vendor advocacy fees can vary widely based on a number of factors, including the type of service...

MYA Cosmetics launches in Australia with bold new collection designed for creative tweens

MYA Cosmetics has officially launched in Australia, introducing its 2026 collection featuring th...

How smart home materials can shield us from extreme heat and cut energy bills all year

Australia is getting hotter. Climate change is driving more frequent and prolonged extreme heatw...

What is autistic burnout? And what can you do about it?

Many autistic people face challenges in their daily life while navigating a world made for neuro...

What is ‘oatzempic’? Does it actually work for weight loss?

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram lately, you may have seen people blending oats...

Freak Weather Spikes ‘Allergic Disease’ and Eczema As Temperatures Dip

“Allergic disease” and eczema cases are spiking due to the current freak weather as the Bureau o...

The Man Behind Sydney’s New Year’s Eve Midnight Moment: Jono Ma

When the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, Sydney will ring in 2026 powered by a high-volt...

Australians Can Choose Their Supermarket — But Have Little Independence With Electricity

Australians can choose where they shop for groceries. If one supermarket lifts prices, reduces q...