News

Frankie and Baxter Graduate

 After 16 months of good behaviour, Assistance Dogs Australia’s first justice pups have broken out of Frank Baxter Juvenile Justice Centre and to celebrate the pups took part in a graduation ceremony held by the Minister for Juvenile Justice the Hon Graham West MP on Thursday 18^th February 2010.

 

The two Labrador puppies, Frankie and Baxter are part of Assistance Dogs Australia’s Australia first Justice Pups program. Eight detainees, juvenile justice staff and community volunteer dog trainers were responsible for seven day a week training of the two Assistance Dogs in training, teaching them basic obedience commands which they will one day use to perform tasks for people with physical disabilities.

 

“The Justice Pups program is what we call a triple treat as it helps the detainees, Assistance Dogs Australia and the community,” Richard Lord, Top Dog at Assistance Dogs Australia, said. “The program aims to reduce re-offending behaviour and gives the boys valuable work skills and training. They also give back to the community because eventually the dog they trained will change the life of someone with a physical disability.”