What is a Companion Dog?

A Companion Dog is placed with adults or children who would benefit from the emotional and physical therapy of having a well-trained pet, and would like the companionship of a dog, but cannot raise and train a dog of their own.

These dogs are trained to support their recipient in home environments. They are not trained to support the individual for community access, therefore, are not trained to travel on public transport and support the recipient in public settings.

The applicant can be any age however if under the age of 18 an able bodied adult needs to be responsible for the dog at all times.

Companion Dogs can offer a great deal of help including

  • Picking up dropped items
  • Opening and closing doors, wardrobes and drawers
  • Removing items of clothing like socks and jumpers
  • Emergency bark if their owner is in danger
  • Offer physical therapy to adults and children with muscular disabilities
  • Can help an adult or child with communications difficulties
  • Offer emotional support, including love and companionship
  • Often assists in breaking down barriers and reducing social isolation

“When Lexi sees Jessika have a spasm, she immediately puts her paws up on her wheelchair. She sort of stands up on her back legs next to Jess. I take Jessika’s hand and help her to stroke Lexi. This calms her down almost immediately, and most of the time brings her spasms to a stop.”

Jessika, aged 11 has Companion Dog Lexi

 

Eligibility:

  • Assistance Dogs Australia does not provide dogs for the sole purpose of emotional therapy.
  • If your disability is from a recent accident we strongly advise that you adapt to you new home environment for a few months before applying for an Assistance Dog
  • For all child applications an adult must take overall responsibility for the application and ownership of the Dog.
  • All Companion Dog applications must be accompanied by a recommendation from a medical professional
  • All applications require photographic or video evidence of a suitable home environment for a dog

To apply for a Companion Dog please complete this application form: CD Application form

Returning the form:

Email: Info@assistancedogs.org.au with the subject line: 'Application for a Companion Dog'

Fax: 02 9548 3376 For the Attention of The K9 Team, or

Post to: The K9 Team, Assistance Dogs Australia, PO BOX 455, Engadine, NSW, 2233. 

 

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