At Paw Power, we focus on building and strengthening relationships between dogs, their owners and the local community.
There are many ways we can be involved in our communities, giving our time to those who for whatever reason are unable to have a dog in their life. Connecting with people through our dogs is known to have scientifically proven benefits.
As a parent, I am passionate about the benefits of educating children, our next generation, about correct, appropriate and safe interactions with dogs.
I am a strong supporter and advocate of educating young people about how to be safe around dogs; when, if and how to approach an unfamiliar dog; and which dogs are safe and which are not.
My goal is to assist in helping reduce the number of dog bites each year. Unfortunately, many bites do happen in the home environment with a family dog or by known dogs.
By educating children about how to identify and read a dog’s body language and how to be safe around all dogs, it is hoped they can be spared from an unpleasant, life-changing experience and potentially the loss of a dearly loved family member.
Remember, your dog can change someone else’s life for the better.
Healing Paws
Dogs play a crucial role in various community services due to their intelligence, loyalty and specialised training. Therapy dogs provide comfort and companionship to people in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and disaster areas.
They help reduce stress, improve emotional well-being and promote social interaction.
The Story Dog Program
Currently, Paw Power is involved in the Story Dog Program in the Byron Bay area where volunteers and their dogs go into Primary Schools. Children are chosen to be part of this remedial program where each week they read to the dog. The volunteer assists with any difficulties and encourages positive interactions with the dog.
It is also an opportunity for the children to have that special connection every week. Anyone interested in this extremely worthwhile program can visit www.storydogs.org.au for more information or Contact Us with any questions.
Therapy dogs can help reduce stress, provide emotional support and improve the overall well-being of those they visit.
Assistance Dogs
MindDog – Psychiatric Assistance Dog
Are you looking for a Certified Dog Trainer to guide and coach you with training your dog, as an Assistance Dog preparing them to accompany you seamlessly in various life situations—be it shopping, visiting a café, attending appointments, or simply being out and about?
If you want your dog to be a Psychiatric Assistance Dog, then MindDog is a great program, contact them here: www.minddog.org.au.
What’s the difference between a Therapy Dog & an Assistance Dog?
Assistance Dog
An Assistance Dog, also known as a service dog, is a highly trained canine companion that provides assistance and support to individuals with disabilities. These disabilities can be physical, sensory, psychiatric, or neurological in nature.
Assistance dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that help mitigate the limitations imposed by the individual’s disability and improve their independence and quality of life.
Therapy Dog
A Therapy Dog is a specially trained canine that provides affection, comfort and support to people in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools and disaster areas. These dogs undergo extensive training to exhibit calm and gentle behaviour, allowing them to interact with individuals who may benefit from their presence.
Therapy dogs can help reduce stress, provide emotional support and improve the overall well-being of those they visit. They play a valuable role in animal-assisted therapy programs, enhancing the lives of people they encounter.
