The Amanda & Ivor Story
Amanda Reynolds, from Buff Point, and her Assistance Dog Ivor definitely got off on the right paw.
“I like having him around, very much so,†Amanda, who uses a wheelchair, said. “He’s given me more independence… he can pick things up so I don’t have to rely on family members.â€
Since beginning her relationship with Ivor, Amanda has had more self confidence and has been able to get out a lot more. Ivor goes with her to the shops, pays the cashier and even picks up groceries for her. He has also made everyday tasks social ones with many stopping to shake his paw and ask Amanda questions.
“People definitely come up more to say hi and shake his paw and he is very well behaved,†Amanda said.
But is there anything at all Ivor can’t do? Amanda doesn’t think so.
“He can answer the door, he lets me know if someone is around, he gets things out of the fridge and basically helps with everything around the house,†Amanda said. “He’s very caring, clever, very happy and makes me feel happy.â€
Ivor brightens up Amanda’s life with just a wag of his tail and it seems he’s had a big impact on family life too. Amanda says he’s changed the family dynamic and “everyone loves him.â€
Ivor is part of a program initiated by Assistance Dogs Australia, a non profit organisation which trains Labradors and Golden Retrievers to enhance the quality of life for people with physical disabilities, giving them freedom and independence.
If you would like to show your support, why not participate in Dogtober? To find out more about this great awareness month for Assistance Dogs Australia click here.
