Cooroy celebration for five graduating PTSD assistance dogs

rience as an ex-police officer living with PTSD.

“It’s about having the right support and it’s about having the right people and that is what PTSD Dogs is about. The dogs are trained in a way to respond to their owners, and it is amazing the difference that makes. The connection between dog and owner is so vital.” fell apart with my marriage and my kids, and I have five girls so I really wanted to work on that.

He congratulated the team on their work and announced a $3,000 Volunteer Grant for the organisation. The graduation ceremony featured five dogs and their handlers, all of whom suffer from PTSD.

“Four years later two of my girls live with me and the younger ones come over all the time, so now I have a relationship with my girls that I wouldn’t have if Buddy hadn’t come into my life. It changed everything and that’s basically what a dog can do for their handler,” Laurie said.

Shaun Elliot, another handler, demonstrated the tasks that his dog Blaze performs for him, such as picking up keys, bags, and walking sticks.

FIVE psychiatric assistance dogs from PTSD Dogs Australia were the guests of honour at a graduation event attended by 50 people at the Cooroy RSL Club recently.

The dogs, which were rescued from pounds and shelters, have undergone extensive training to become certified support animals for veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD.

PTSD Dogs Australia CEO Angie Weeks said these dogs have made remarkable achievements and a positive impact on their handlers’ lives.

“Our dogs have come from such varying circumstances, and they have graduated from their training with flying colours. They have now been placed with a handler and I am so proud of our dogs and handlers for their achievements; they are truly inspirational.

“We wanted to take the time to celebrate their success and also to thank our volunteers, foster carers, sponsors and supporters for all the work they have done,” Angie said.

Patron of PTSD Dogs and special guest speaker, Llew O’Brien MP, spoke of his expe-