M&M Companion Retrievers

15/12/2024

RUN BY PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Meet our dedicated team at M&M Companion Retrievers, where lived experience meets expertise.

Serena – Founder
A retired police officer, Serena lives with CPTSD, chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. Drawing from her personal journey, Serena founded M&M to help others experience the profound healing and empowerment that comes from working with a dog. She deeply understands the day-to-day challenges of managing disabilities and brings a compassionate, firsthand perspective to the program.

Taylor – Head Trainer
Taylor, our head trainer, lives with Autism, ADHD, and CPTSD. Her unique understanding of neurodivergence allows her to connect deeply with clients, ensuring personalized training that truly meets their needs. Taylor’s expertise and empathy are vital in creating meaningful partnerships between dogs and their handlers.

Kat – Military Liaison Trainer
As a veteran herself, Kat brings invaluable experience as our military liaison trainer. Living with PTSD, military-related injuries, and associated illnesses, she connects effortlessly with other veterans. Kat’s disciplined, military-style approach to training is both effective and relatable for those in similar circumstances.

14/12/2024

We are thrilled to share that Stella & Bear are expecting the pitter-patter of little puppy paws on January 11th, 2025!

This purebred Golden Retriever litter is set to be exceptional. With their stunning golden coats and sweet, attentive temperaments, these puppies are destined to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their future families.

As our first assistance dog litter for 2025, we have high hopes for these little ones. Bear’s last litter has already exceeded all expectations, excelling in their training as assistance and therapy dogs.

We can't wait to see how this litter will go on to heal hearts and change lives!

Application now open for our Assistance Dog Program

12/12/2024

M&M ASSISTANCE DOG TRAINING PROGRAM

The M&M Companion Retriever Assistance Dog Program begins with our comprehensive Early Learning Puppy Program, an enriching journey from birth to 8 months old. This program offers an in-depth experience, allowing you to witness and participate in the crucial development stages of your puppy from birth until they are ready to join your family at 8 weeks old.

Our Early Learning Puppy Program is a collaborative effort between the Breeder, the Trainer, and you, the new owner. It encompasses 35 weeks of tailored training and guidance designed to nurture your puppy's growth and prepare them for a fulfilling life as an assistance dog.

Throughout the program, you'll receive extensive support covering a wide array of topics including:

Establishing a safe routine for your puppy's first week.

Socialization and exposure, highlighting the importance and techniques for proper socialization and how to conduct these activities.

Understanding normal puppy behaviors such as nipping, sleeping patterns, and managing hyperactivity.

Enrichment ideas and strategies for implementation.

Guidance on integrating puppies with children for a safe and harmonious environment.

Setting up your home to accommodate the puppy's needs including crates, sleeping arrangements, and designated zones.

Addressing obedience and behavioral issues, separation anxiety, and boredom busters.

Refining Obedience training at home and then in public settings under distractions.

Preparation for the Public Access Test, with a 6 month assessment.

Weekly Rosters, video calls and one on eon communication with your personal dog trainer.

Addressing any individual concerns and training needs for you, your family and the puppy.

Support with any public access issues, negotiating with businesses, rental accommodation, workplaces ect.

You will have ongoing communication and support via Zoom calls, videos, PDF documents, website access, and direct contact with the Trainer from 8 weeks to 35 weeks of age.

We recognize that each owner and puppy are unique, progressing at their own pace and with individual goals. Our program is adaptable, tailored to suit your specific needs and aspirations for your puppy, whether it's for personal fulfilment, therapy, or as an assistance dog.

For those aspiring to raise and train their puppy to fulfil specific roles or dreams, our Early Learning Puppy Program serves as the essential first step toward achieving those goals.

While we endeavor to provide exceptional training services, it's essential to understand that various factors influence success, including owner commitment and individual puppy personalities. Completion of this program does not certify the puppy as a full assistance dog; further training via the Assistance Dog Breeding Program will be necessary, including additional modules outlined by the Trainer and Breeder.

During the Early Learning Puppy Program, we work under Section 9 of the Disability Discrimination Act. Your puppy does not have full access rights but we work with your local business and community to ensure you are able to train your dog in public settings to set them up for success.

Participation in the Early Learning Puppy Program does not guarantee passing future assistance dog assessments, as additional training is required to achieve Public Access and Assistance Dog Certification.

​To learn more about this transformative program, click the link below to access the M&M Companion Retriever Early Learning Puppy Program Information Session. Join us on this incredible journey of nurturing and guiding your puppy's growth into an assistance dog.

Enjoy some photos of our latest participants in the Early Learning Puppy Program 2024.

APPLICATIONS HERE:
https://www.mm-companion-retrievers.com/applications

12/12/2024

Such powerful words, inspired by our dear Rudolph

'She’s the reason I decided to go for it. She showed me that even if you have your quirks you’re still as equally important as everyone else xx'

11/12/2024

** both Lexi & Blossom have found homes **

Are you looking for a loyal, loving, older dog to join your family? We have the perfect opportunity for you!

Our dear friend and breeding mentor, Lin Linleighdore Retrievers , is winding down, and two of her gorgeous Golden Retrievers, Blossom and Lexi, are looking for their forever homes.

Meet Blossom

Blossom is the mother of our beloved Chloe. She is a light golden beauty with an affectionate and gentle personality. Blossom craves attention and thrives in the company of people and other dogs. She would be a fantastic addition to any family, especially one where someone is home most of the time or there’s another dog for company.

Meet Lexi

Lexi is the mother of our calm and loving Ally. Before she came to Lin, Lexi endured a difficult start in life. Thanks to Lin's love and patience, Lexi has blossomed into a happy, loyal, and gentle dog. She is cream-colored and slightly shy, so she would thrive in a quieter home with mature or semi-retired owners who can spend lots of time with her. Lexi would do well with another calm dog, but she prefers a peaceful environment.

Details

Both Blossom and Lexi are:

Purebred, ANKC registered Golden Retrievers

Fully health tested (DNA, hips, elbows, heart, and eyes)

Up-to-date with vaccinations, worming, and heartworm prevention

Recently desexed and recovering well

They are 7 years old and ready to enjoy their retirement in loving homes. Each is available for $1000, a remarkable value given their pedigree and temperament. If you'd like to adopt both, we are happy to consider a reduced price.

If you feel you could provide the perfect home for Blossom, Lexi, or both, please reach out to us to learn more about these beautiful girls.

Don't miss the chance to welcome one (or both) of these sweet girls into your family!

Please share 🙏

Both girls are located in Townsville. Interstate travel will be considered for only the right home

#

10/12/2024

I'm very happy with how their toilet training is going!

At 4.5 weeks they know to go to the grass mat to use the toilet. Now it's not 100%% but they are doing well.

But apparently Rudolph thinks the toilet is a comfy place to sleep

09/12/2024

Exposing puppies to a variety of sounds from a young age is an essential part of their socialization and development. The goal is to help them become confident, resilient, and adaptable to different environments as they grow. Early exposure to sounds can prevent fear and anxiety-related behaviors later in life, which is especially crucial for assistance dogs that must remain calm and focused in unpredictable and noisy settings.

Reasons for Noise Exposure:

1. Desensitization: Gradual exposure to common and uncommon noises reduces the likelihood of fear or reactivity to these sounds in the future.

2. Stress Management: Controlled exposure helps puppies learn to cope with potentially stressful auditory stimuli in a safe and supportive environment.

3. Preparation for Real-World Scenarios: Assistance and companion dogs need to be accustomed to a variety of sounds they might encounter daily, ensuring they stay composed and effective in their roles.

4. Building Confidence: By positively associating sounds with comfort or rewards, puppies develop confidence in new and challenging environments.

Examples of Sounds Used:

Household Sounds: Vacuum cleaners, washing machines, doorbells, kitchen appliances, and televisions.

Outdoor and City Sounds: Traffic, sirens, horns, construction noise, and lawnmowers.

Human Voices: Shouting, laughing, and varied pitches or tones of speech.

Animal Sounds: Barking dogs, meowing cats, and chirping birds.

Uncommon or Unpredictable Noises: Fireworks, thunder, alarms, and music instruments.

The key to successful noise exposure is gradual introduction, using low volumes initially and pairing the sounds with positive reinforcement like treats, play, or affection. This ensures the experience is enjoyable and not overwhelming for the puppy.

09/12/2024

Rudolph is doing so well with her little club foot.

She isn't letting it get her down and has found her own way of walking.

What a special girl

08/12/2024

Oh how we have grown goldador puppies

08/12/2024

We Breed them smart I swear 🤣🤣🤣

07/12/2024

There are some exciting things happening M&M Companion Retrievers

We will soon have access to a training facility Alpha Lykos K9 Training and Behaviour where we can provide additional support to our assistance dog clients AND provide partially trained assistance dog's.

Plus the kennels are air-conditioned, first of its kind in FNQ, and knowing the heat up there it is certainly a necessity not a luxury!

The plans for the facility are currently up for public notice.

If you are in the Mareeba Shire we encourage you to provide a support submission for our project .

🌟 Exciting Announcement! 🌟

We are thrilled to share that our dream project with Alpha Lykos is moving forward, and we’re close to getting council approval! This facility will be a game-changer for dog owners in Far North Queensland and assistance dogs across Australia! 🐶❤️

We’re building a boarding, training, daycare, and nutrition facility in Mareeba—the FIRST air-conditioned facility in the area. This means we can hold more classes and bring in guest trainers for special events!

We need your support: if you see the value in this facility and live in the Mareeba Shire, please submit letters to the council in support. Submissions will be available starting tomorrow, and I’ll post the link!

We train psychiatric assistance dogs for M&M Companion Retrievers, helping clients change their lives with these amazing dogs. Our program provides access to clients who wouldn’t typically be able to get assistance dogs. This facility will also allow us to offer already trained assistance dogs for those who cannot train from puppyhood.

Thank you for your support! Let’s make this dream a reality together! 🐾💕

05/12/2024

The Mischevious Reindeer Litter are 4 weeks old.

Aren't they adorable 😍

05/12/2024

It’s hot today so pups are inside in the aircon

05/12/2024

03/12/2024

Pups meet their dad

03/12/2024

** ONLY 1 PUPPY LEFT the spunky Prancer - go home 2nd January 2025 Pups can travel interstate **

M&M Companion Retrievers is thrilled to announce a special opportunity to welcome a remarkable new member into your family! We are a premier breeder of Labrador and Golden Retrievers, known for raising exceptional assistance dogs. As proud members of the International Working Dog Association, our puppies are nurtured following the rigorous IWDA early socialization program.

About Our Litter:

We currently have a beautiful litter of 9 Goldador (Labrador x Golden Retriever) puppies. Both parents are pedigree purebreds, extensively health and temperament tested to ensure they embody the ideal characteristics of the breed. Known for their soft, gentle nature, these parents are attentive, affectionate, and stunningly beautiful.

Exceptional Companions:

While the majority of our puppies typically join homes as assistance dogs, our program is at capacity for 2024. This means we have extraordinary puppies available for adoption to the right family. These aren't just any puppies; they are bred to be fearless, well-socialized, and adaptable to various environments. They are familiar with a multitude of sounds, sights, people, and objects, making them not only well-rounded but also perfect lifelong companions.

Why Choose Us?

By adopting one of our Goldadors, you're not just getting a pet; you're getting a loyal friend trained to offer solid, supportive, and unconditional love. These puppies are ready to serve and enrich your family life in countless ways.

Don't Miss Out!

These exceptional puppies are ready to find their forever homes. Don’t wait—this is a rare opportunity to bring a puppy raised with such care and expertise into your life.

Interested?

Contact us today to learn more about adopting one of these splendid Goldador puppies. Let us help you find your perfect companion. Click learn more and submit your application today!

Puppies due to go home 2nd January 2025. Puppies can travel interstate.

Don't wait – secure your spot in this one-of-a-kind litter today! Contact us now!

https://www.mm-companion-retrievers.com/applications

Not sure if you are ready for a puppy? Take our quiz here:
https://form.jotform.com/242978814108061

Your new best friend is waiting for you!

29/11/2024

It's about time we introduce you all to the newest addition to our family Alaska 'Ally'

Ally is a purebred Golden retriever puppy from our favourite breeder

Ally was Lin's favourite pick, but she couldn't take on another puppy, so we did!!

And aren't we glad! Ally is a beautiful puppy, the calmest puppy I've had at this age. Nothing phases her. She is confident, calm, and cuddly. She loves her food, but only if it has delicious meat in it.

We have been working hard to socialise and expose Ally to the world, remembering the weeks 8 to 16 are so crucial for your puppies' development ❤️

Ally thinks she's a human baby 🤣

28/11/2024

Have you ever wondered what these little rat like puppies will grow into when they are older?

This is Billie, from Milly & Max's litter.

The labs x goldens are more likely to have the shorter labrador coat as the short hair gene is the dominant gene. But that doesn't mean you won't get a long-haired goldador. We do have a couple But it is rare


Isn't she just gorgeous. The current pups will be a darker tone of golden then beautiful billie