A local charity, that rescues dogs to help people with PTSD, is calling for more volunteers.
Cooroy-based PTSD Dogs Australia gets dogs from pounds and shelters and trains them to become Psychiatric Assistance Dogs, for Veterans and first responders who are suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
“Receiving an assistance dog can be utterly life-changing and in some cases, even life-saving,” a spokesperson for the organisation said.
“These loyal assistance dogs can help those suffering from PTSD to carry out essential tasks, increase their independence and improve their quality of life.”
The assistance dogs are provided at no charge to the recipients and PTSD Dogs Australia supplies support to each dog and their handler.
The dogs they train are rehabilitated, after they have been abandoned.
“Through no fault of their own, or unfortunate circumstances, these often once well-loved and often well-trained dogs, find themselves on death row and in pounds and shelters, hoping and needing a second chance at life,” the spokesperson said.
“Dogs experience similar emotions to us humans, including fear, frustration, anxiety, joy, love, trust and respect.”
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PTSD Dogs Australia has operated 2018, rescuing dogs from pounds and shelters, and it’s leading the way in training rescue dogs to become Psychiatric PTSD Assistance Dogs, instead of utilising puppy breeding programs, therefore reducing dog euthanasia rates and reducing wait times for an assistance dog.
It’s almost entirely run on a volunteer basis and relies on grants, sponsorships and donations to operate.
The charity is desperate for more volunteers to assist in several areas, including general administration duties, and to help with manning fundraising market stalls, and at fundraising events.
“Volunteers are the lifeline to rescuing dogs, who rescue veterans and first responders, so help save two lives in one go,” the charity said.
“If you have time to spare and the skills to match, then join the pack.”
Anyone interested in volunteering for PTSD Dogs Australia, please call on 0488 10 10 26 or visit PTSD Dogs.
