Vets lend a hand for assistance dogs group

Dogs can provide assistance to people with disabilities when they are trained to meet the individual needs of their owner, according to Harradine and Associates veterinary centre owner Flip Harradine.

The Bunbury veterinary team is getting behind Assistance Dogs Australia by hosting an inaugural walk at Dalyellup Lakeside park on Sunday from 8.30am.

Mrs Harradine said the clinic planned on making it a yearly event to support the training organisation and this was just one way the practice was supporting the community.

“The work they (Assistance Dogs) do is fantastic.

“It takes around $30,000 to train one dog, but it can be the difference between someone living independently and requiring daily assistance from a carer,” she said.

“We wanted to do something different. It’s a win, win situation, as exercising with pets builds a great relationship between their owner and it gets families out exercising together.

“I have seen the work Assistance Dogs do and thought this was a good way to incorporate exercise and raise money for a good cause.”

Practice receptionist Janette Kenbeek said it was a gold coin donation and there would be a free raffle, prize for the best dressed dog and a free leash and goody back for each participant.

Registration will be from 8.30am for a 9am start at Lakeside Park on Maidment Parade, Dalyellup this Sunday.