3 new SuperDogs are welcomed into their new homes

It has been a busy week for Assistance Dogs Australia, with three Assistance Dogs being matched with three clients on the waiting list.

In a first for Assistance Dogs Australia, Echo, Jimmy and Coco all completed their advanced training at the same time, and were able to meet their new owners together.

Echo

Echo the Assistance Dog will be working in Kalinda School, NSW, a school for children with a wide range of disabilities.

“For some of them Echo will be providing support because their mobility is limited, others may read to her, and for kids with mental health issues they'll be able to be involved in her care and training.” said Principal Belinda Wallace. ‘’There is no doubt that she is a clever dog and we are extremely fortunate to have her on our team!’’

Jimmy

Jimmy the Assistance Dog was matched with Victorian Police Officer Rob, who has post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Having only spent a few days together, Jimmy and Rob have already formed a very close bond.

"I'm amazed at how much he can pick up, he senses it. I'm not sure of the physiology of why it happens, but he senses it," Rob said. "Every time I get triggered severely, Jimmy nuzzles into me, forces me to look at him and forces me to pat him. He'll sit on my foot, keep me in one place and forces me to ground on him and focus and realise that I'm safe and I’ve got to look after him."

Coco

Coco the Assistance Dog has been matched with Bailey, a six year old boy with autism. Having raised Coco in their NSW home from a puppy, Bailey’s mum Kelly is pleased to welcome Coco back into her home after she had completed her advanced training at Assistance Dogs Australia’s National Training Centre.  “Bailey and Coco are getting back into the swing of things.’’ said mum Kelly.

But there’s no time to rest for the Assistance Dogs Australia team, with a full-house at the National Training Centre, and more puppies expected in August.

International Assistance Dog Week (IADW) runs from 2^nd-8^th August 2015 and celebrates all working assistance dogs, their clients and puppy raisers. http://www.assistancedogweek.org/

 Assistance Dogs Australia: Founded in 1996, Assistance Dogs Australia is a national charity which trains Labradors and Golden Retrievers to help people with disabilities, providing them with greater freedom and independence. Dogs are placed free of charge, to a wide range of clients, including families with autism, post-traumatic stress sufferers and wheelchair users. It costs in excess of $27,000 to train and place a dog, and Assistance Dogs Australia receives no government funding.Visit www.assistancedogs.org.au.