In-Shelter Programs

This course is for you if:

• You are 12+ with various abilities and support needs.

• You are part of the NDIS, SLES, other disability services, or self-funded.

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

• You want to learn about shelters and how they work.

• You want to meet an assortment of furry, feathered, and scaly friends.

Participants (aged 12+) will join unique, small group sessions centred around animal interactions, where they spend time with a range of animals at RSPCA rescue shelters and wildlife sanctuaries.  

Participants gain practical hands-on experience through fun and engaging activities while building trust and connection with shelter animals, including but not limited to dogs, cats, wildlife and farm animals.

The program is delivered using a supported learning approach, encouraging participants to identify personal goals, which Happy Paws Happy Hearts staff and volunteers assist them in achieving.

Outcomes for the Hearts

• Increased confidence through positive training and skills attainment.

• Increased social connections and support network.

• Increased sense of purpose and engagement with family/friends.

• Increased independence.

• Increased vocational skills and improved employment prospects.

• Improvements in mental health and wellbeing.

Outcomes for the Paws

• Positive skills translated from positive reinforcement-based training.

• Socialisation time and opportunities to rebuild trust in humans.

• Increased “adoptable” behaviours on display to prospective families.

• A happy and healthy living environment.