How HPHH has helped Tamara become more independent

Tamara joined HPHH Mackay because she loves animals and wanted to learn more about caring for them.

In a few short months since joining HPHH, Tamara has already gained animal care and training knowledge and skills. She is becoming more confident and independent as she attends sessions without her support worker.

Tamara loves dogs and cats. In her weekly Care sessions, she has bonded with one rescue dog named Billy, who she says is ‘very cute’. She has helped with teaching him skills, including how to sit, shake and high-five while also providing him with much-needed hands-on time.

She also loves playing with the cats and kittens in her sessions, especially the kittens, because they are ‘so energetic and playful’.

Tamara feels good about helping the rescue animals on their adoption journey. One adopted dog she recalls was named T Bone.

“T Bone was a regular in sessions for about 4 weeks and we helped him with training and confidence-building exercises,” Senior Program Trainer Susan Armstrong said.

Tamara is proud that she can come to her sessions independently after a few short months without needing support.

HPHH makes Tamara feel happy, and she would recommend it to people who love animals and want to connect with an inclusive community.

Working towards finding employment in the childcare industry, Tamara is excited to start her work placement at Goodstart Early Learning Mackay to gain skills and qualifications in childcare.