About Us

A Legacy of Love and Compassion for Eight Years

For over eight years, Maltese hearts has stood as a beacon of hope for Maltese dogs in need across Australia. Founded on a simple, unwavering principle that every Maltese deserves a life filled with love, security, and comfort we have dedicated ourselves to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of this beautiful breed.

Our journey began with a single, heart-tugging case, and has since grown into a Australia-wide network of volunteers, foster carers, and supporters united by a common goal: to mend broken hearts, both canine and human.

Our Mission

Our mission is a three-fold promise we make to every dog that comes into our care

Rescue

We intervene for Maltese dogs in a variety of desperate situations. This includes saving them from pounds and shelters where they are at risk of euthanasia, taking in owner surrenders due to unforeseen circumstances, and collaborating with authorities to assist dogs from neglectful or abusive environments. No matter their age or medical condition, we believe they are worth saving.

Rehabilitate

Once safe, each dog is placed into a dedicated, loving foster home. This is a critical step in their healing journey. Here, they receive:
· Full Veterinary Care: Comprehensive health checks, vaccinations, microchipping, de-sexing, and any necessary medical procedures, including dental work and specialist treatments.
· Behavioural Assessment & Training: Our foster carers work patiently to understand each dog’s unique personality, address any fears or anxieties, and teach basic manners in a home environment.
· Unconditional Love: They learn to trust again, experiencing the comfort of a home, regular meals, and the kindness of humans.

Rehome

The final, and most rewarding, step is finding our rescued Maltese their perfect furever home. Our thorough adoption process is designed not as an obstacle, but as a careful matching service to ensure a successful, lifelong bond between the dog and their new family.

Why the Maltese Breed?

The enchanting Maltese, with its flowing white coat and gentle demeanour, is often seen as the epitome of a lapdog. However, this charming appearance can belie specific needs and vulnerabilities. Their small size and specific grooming requirements mean they can easily fall into the wrong hands, from puppy farms to owners unprepared for their care. We focus exclusively on this breed to provide the specialised knowledge and compassionate understanding they require.

Our Guiding Principles

The Dog Comes First: Every decision we make is in the best interest of the Maltese in our care.
· Transparency & Integrity: We are a registered not-for-profit organisation, run entirely by volunteers. We are committed to financial transparency and ethical operations.
· Education: We believe in empowering our community with knowledge about responsible pet ownership, including grooming, training, and the lifelong commitment of adopting a dog.
· Community is Our Foundation: From our foster families and volunteers to our donors and adopters, we are a community built on a shared passion. It truly takes a village.

Join Our Mission

The work we do is only possible through the generosity of our supporters. You can help us continue this vital mission in several ways:

· Adopt: Open your heart and home to a rescued Maltese and give them the second chance they deserve.
· Foster: Provide a temporary, loving home for a dog as they await their forever family. This is one of the most direct ways to save a life.
· Donate: Financial contributions directly fund veterinary care, food, and supplies for our dogs.
· Volunteer: Lend your skills—whether in administration, fundraising, transport, or events.

Together, we can ensure that every Maltese in Australia has a safe place to call home.