Empower Assistance Dogs

24/12/2024

As the magic of Christmas fills the air, we want to take a moment to send love and warmth to each and every one of you. This is a season of togetherness, joy, and reflection—a time to cherish the people who bring light to our lives and to celebrate the blessings we share.

Whether you're surrounded by family, friends, or finding comfort in the beauty of quiet moments, may your heart be filled with peace and your spirit lifted by the wonder of the season. Let us remember the power of kindness, the joy of giving, and the hope that brighter days are always ahead.

Wishing you a day filled with laughter, love, and all the things that make your heart smile. May the glow of Christmas lights and the melodies of the season remind you of the beauty in the world and the connections that make life so precious.

From our heart to yours—Merry Christmas and a New Year brimming with happiness and endless possibilities! 🎄✨❤️

Photo courtesy of Kylie, James & Bella Eden puppy raisers of Empower candidate assistance puppy 'Bailey'

20/12/2024

An early morning start to attend the final BNI meeting for 2024!

Thanks for the invite BNI Corporate 🎅🏼🎄
Corpoate

12/12/2024

There have been so many issues for dog and handler teams trying to access these services. Let's hope this is a step in the right direction to making real change.

10/12/2024

Thanks for the nice story on our wonderful therapy dog and handler teams. They do such important work to support the lives of others and we're very proud of them all 🧡

05/12/2024

Wow 😮 just downloaded the new Petbarn app…….this is definitely going to make ordering a lot easier! Oh and they have a Pet AI section too where you can ask pet related questions…can’t wait to give that a try. Loads of great features. Nice work Petbarn!

27/11/2024

Alan and Coco are a wonderful Empower Therapy Dog team and it's wonderful to have great feedback from the impact that they make when they do their therapy visits. Thanks to Patinos Personal Lawyers for funding these visits to Logan Hospital - what a fantastic way to give back to the community by making an impact on wellbeing and mental health for patients and staff.

🐾 A ‘pawsome’ act of generosity is bringing monthly visits from Empower Assistance Dogs to Logan Hospital!

Thanks to a kind-hearted local, Alan and his lovely Labradoodle Coco paid their first visit to wards 2M, 6A, and the Children's Inpatient Unit, spreading smiles and tail wags everywhere.

Volunteer Coordinator Kylie Mott said, “I’m not sure who enjoyed it more—our patients or the staff!”

Keep an eye out for Alan and Coco next month as they continue to ‘pawsitively’ brighten our hospital! 🐶✨

24/10/2024

Really happy to be able to support Mentor Course and Retreat with with therapy dogs—Choppa, Chilli, and new assistance dog recruit Suni by discussing the benefits of canine therapy and how they contribute to resilience, focus, and overall well-being.

The Resilience Shield program, developed by Dr Dan Pronk, Ben Pronk and Tim Curtis is designed to equip participants with evidence-based tools for thriving in stressful environments. The retreat, set in the serene Tamborine Mountain, Queensland, combines leadership, teamwork, and resilience-building activities that challenge participants both mentally and physically.

Therapy dogs like Choppa, Chilli, and Suni play a crucial role in enhancing psychological safety and reducing workplace stress. By promoting emotional regulation and increasing social connection, these dogs support mental well-being and foster resilience—a vital component of a productive and healthy workplace.

Reach out if you're interested in finding out how therapy dogs can form a valuable part of your overall resilience, wellbeing and psychological safety program.

08/10/2024

12/09/2024

12/09/2024

R U OK? Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of checking in with those around us. In today's fast-paced world, many people silently struggle with their mental health, and a simple conversation can make a big difference. By asking, "Are you OK?" and listening with empathy, we can offer support to someone who may be feeling overwhelmed or isolated. Mental health is as crucial as physical health, and maintaining it allows us to cope with stress, build meaningful relationships, and navigate life's challenges. Reaching out and staying connected can foster a culture of care and remind us all that we are not alone.

One way to improve mental health is through interaction with therapy dogs, which has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. These animals provide comfort, companionship, and a sense of calm, helping individuals feel more grounded and less isolated. Petting or spending time with a therapy dog can release endorphins, lower blood pressure, and promote a positive mood. By asking, "Are you OK?" and encouraging ways to manage mental health we can foster emotional well-being and remind each other that support is always available.

05/09/2024

Teacher Aide (one of the Empower Therapy Dog Handlers) was slimed at school yesterday. Thanks for wearing our Empower gear for the event....it's all about awareness and we love your commitment. What a great event that the P&F organised 😊

01/09/2024

When the call came out to support another of Logan's wonderful charities Formally Ever After Qld Inc. we didn't hesitate. Each year high school students that attend our annual Empower Assistance Dogs Charity Gala reach out to Tammy and Athol to help them to access their gowns, suits and accessories so that they can attend and have a magical night feeling so special in their formal wear. Thanks for the shout-out Tammy and Athol 😃

Do you have some formal wear that you would like to donate? Check out Formally Ever After Qld Inc. for drop off locations!

29/08/2024

Bringing warmth, smiles, and tail wags to our pals and supporters at Moxy Sydney Airport. Our pawsome therapy dogs and their dedicated handlers are always ready to spread joy!