In-Shelter Intensive Programs

This course is for you if:

• You are a veteran or currently serving member of the Defence Force, a first responder, or an injured worker.

• You heard about Happy Paws Happy Hearts through iCare, Work Cover, DVA, an ESO or an associated referral agency.

• You like interacting with dogs and other shelter animals.

• You are interested in goal setting, learning specific tasks, and becoming more social.

• You want to join a course that specialises in dog training and rehabilitation.

• You want to learn about how shelters work.

Designed for Australian Defence Force personnel and veterans, first responders and injured workers experiencing PTSD or other mental health challenges; our program helps participants learn to train rescue dogs while building social connections and self-confidence.

Our participants have seen improvements in psychological wellbeing and life management skills, and an increased sense of connection with themselves, their families, and the broader community.

Train

This is a short-term (6-weeks to 6 months) course that will focus on building your foundational dog training skills such as mark and reward, scent games, and marking positive behaviour.

In Train, you will work closely with shelter animals on their recovery journey, creating positive associations with people and places, in order to set them up for adoption success.