Impact Areas
PTSD
Assistance Dogs are trained to use their skills to detect and help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety for our clients living with PTSD. An ever-present friend, always by their side, no matter what.
Autism
Autism affects 1 in 150 Australian children. Assistance Dog's use their skills and endless patience to provide support in many ways where other forms of therapy may not be as effective.
Physical Disability
Assistance Dogs Australia has been placing dogs with Australians living with a physical disability for over 20 years, helping them reclaim their independence and become active members of the community.
Become a Puppy Educator
At eight weeks of age, our Assistance Dog puppies are placed in the community with volunteer Puppy Educators. These families or individuals ensure that our newbies get the best possible care, in a loving home environment.
There are four ways you can volunteer and have more puppy love in your life. You could be a Puppy Educator, Puppy Carer, B&B’er or Brood Carer.
Join a passionate community, enjoy puppy cuddles, and feel rewarded. This could be one of the best things you’ve ever done.
Assistance Dog Journey
Breeding
The long journey ahead starts with our breeding program, where select dogs are chosen for their desirable characteristics and temperament. As they first open their eyes and find their feet, our breeding teams are there to help them every tiny step of the way.
Puppy Education
From 8 weeks of age our Assistance Dogs join their first families for the initial portion of their education. They attended puppy classes with our dedicated puppy supervisors, and practice the skills learned in class at home and in public. Most importantly, they receive plenty of love and nurturing as they grow up!
Advanced Training
After their 1st birthday, our talented pups join the talented team of Trainers at the Advanced Training. Here they’ll spend the next 4 months perfecting the incredible skills that will change their client’s life. It’s not all work though, when they’re not training or out on field trips they spend plenty of time goofing around with their kennel buddies.
Placement
As their time at the Advanced Training draws to a close, each dog’s strengths, weaknesses and personalities are assessed. We take these factors into consideration and match each dog with the client they are best suited to spend the rest of their working lives with.
Become a Puppy Educator
As a Puppy Volunteer, you will witness some of the most precious (and heart-melting) moments in your puppy’s life. Join a passionate community, enjoy puppy cuddles, and feel rewarded. This could be one of the best things you’ve ever done.
Find out more