A well-loved dog is searching for a new family after his owner sadly died while walking him near Manly Dam last month.
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Riley, a five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross Australian Cattle Dog, was the faithful companion of the man whose death prompted a search operation by the PolAir helicopter. Since then, Riley has been moved between temporary carers and is now waiting at Collaroy Veterinary Hospital pound for adoption.
The Animal Welfare League Northern Beaches (AWLNB), which is overseeing his rehoming, has launched an urgent appeal to find him a safe and loving environment—either foster care or, ideally, a permanent home.
Sweet-Natured and Playful
Volunteers describe Riley as affectionate, gentle with children and good with other dogs. He enjoys tug-of-war, long walks and cheekily stealing beanies when no one is looking.
AWLNB volunteer Susanna Inkinen said Riley and his owner had been inseparable, and she explained that he now needed a calm and loving environment where someone could be present most of the time to provide him with stability.
Staff believe that with patience, routine and affection, Riley will thrive as a loyal and playful companion.
How the Rehoming Process Works
The AWLNB operates as a virtual shelter, relying on Collaroy Vet to hold animals temporarily before they are placed in foster care or adopted.
Practice manager and veterinary nurse Lilly Taylor noted that Collaroy Vet was designed as a short-term holding facility, not for long-term housing. She added that more foster carers were needed, as not every animal could move straight into a new home.
The clinic also runs an adoption program that allows the public to meet cats and dogs in person. Adoption fees, $300 for cats and $450 for dogs, will help cover veterinary care. Prospective foster carers can register through AWL and provide temporary homes at no cost.
Call for Support
With kitten season approaching, the organisation often cares for up to 60 cats at a time, adding to the demand for volunteers, foster families and donations.
Taylor explained that fostering could be a way for people to see if an animal fitted into their lives, with many carers eventually deciding to adopt permanently.
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Riley, once inseparable from his late owner, is now hoping for someone new to give him the stability he craves. Anyone who can offer him a safe and caring home is urged to contact the AWLNB or reach out directly to Collaroy Vet at 9971 8487. The clinic is located at 1185 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy.
Published 1-September-2025
