How rescue animals are helping this father-daughter duo flourish

John and Tiffany O’Loughlin have a lot of things in common, more than just their last names and strong father-daughter bond. They have a shared love of animals, evidenced by having 9 budgies, 5 chickens and 2 cats in their shared home.

“I do not have a favourite animal as I have 9 budgies at home in a cage that Dad and I built together,” Tiffany says.

Their unique animal farm ‘still has room for a dog or puppy’ according to the pair. Given their passion for all kinds of creatures, they were recommended to join Happy Paws Happy Hearts in Mackay to get their puppy fix every week while learning new skills and knowledge about caring for animals. They secured 2 funded spots thanks to the generous support of QCoal Foundation.

Located at RSPCA Animal Care Centre Mackay, Happy Paws Happy Hearts welcomed John and Tiffany with open paws and hearts. The father-daughter duo joined the tight-knit coastal community, which continues to grow after opening its doors one year ago – an anniversary they are ‘paws-itively’ stoked to celebrate.

“I came to HPHH out of a love for animals and a need to educate myself about dogs and animals in general,” John says.

“I have many favourite memories but really enjoy my time interacting with the dogs and puppies and watching the way they interact with us as we train them.”

Tiffany says she will never forget the memories she’s created at Happy Paws Happy Hearts.

“I am proud of all I have done throughout this program,” Tiffany says.

“I have become a lot calmer within myself as a person around all the animals.”

Pictured: Tiffany with a rescue cat at RSPCA Mackay

Our wonderful Program Trainer in Mackay, Susan Armstrong, has enjoyed getting to know Tiffany and John while guiding them through the ‘Care’ Program.

“Tiffany has really come out of her shell; she interacts with the animals wonderfully and is taking to the puppy training. She’s a great team player and is confident with her communication. She is very creative and loves the crafty side of activities,” Susan says.

“John has a great sense of humour. I feel like he will often hold back to let Tiffany shine. He has great communication skills and is doing well with his puppy training.”

The dynamic duo loves their time at Happy Paws Happy Hearts and would recommend the programs – a spin on traditional animal therapy – to any animal lovers.

“Happy Paws Happy Hearts makes me feel a lot happier and makes my week brighter. I would recommend Happy Paws Happy Hearts to anyone who loves animals,” Tiffany says.

“I would recommend Happy Paws Happy Hearts to anyone wanting to find themselves and something as worthwhile as the unconditional love (of animals),” John says.

Pictured: John with a rescue cat at RSPCA Mackay