Over the month of October and November, we will be doing a double-take focusing on increasing awareness around Assistance Dogs in both our community and workplace. In October or in this case ‘Dogtober’ we celebrate and recognise their contribution while helping to raise funds for the training of Assistance Dogs in Australia. This is followed up with Assistance Dog Awareness Week November 20-26.
In Australia statistics say that 1 in 5 are diagnosed with a disability, while not all require assistance in their everyday lives there are many that do. And this is where our four-legged friends come into play, specially trained they are able to enable people with disability to improve their independence, self-esteem, health and relationships – resulting in stronger and more successful families and communities.
Assistance Dogs can be trained to specialise in a variety of support settings and are able to assist people with PTSD, Autism, medical requirements and physical impairments.
This doesn’t come cheaply, it takes two years of training and costs over $40,000 to provide a qualified Assistance Dog. This covers training, food, veterinary treatment, kennelling costs and placement with a client.
Related articles for October & November:
The Difference Between Service Dogs and Therapy Dogs
Dogtober – Training & Real Life Stories Of Assistance Dogs
Employer Tips For Supporting Staff With Assistance Dogs
