What's up dog?

When Trixie came home for the first time I knew she was destined for great things. She was never fazed by new things, always curious but not alarmed, and would learn so quickly. I love my career, but have always had a passion and interest to work with dogs. I looked into vet nursing however the financial impact on our family was too great. So when I noticed how responsive trixie was to training I decided I wanted her to be a theraphy dog in aged care and hospitals. Still working from home with the mundane routine of sitting at my desk only getting up to have lunch or make coffee, I was now getting up to take 5 or 10 minutes every hour to do micro training sessions giving me physical and mental breaks. I didn't realise how much impact this had until 3 weeks later I was in a meeting and someone mentioned I had been different in the last few weeks, that I had a "spring" in my step.

When I noticed how significant the physical and mental impact had been on myself I knew I needed to dedicate 1 day a week to "Team Trixie". I approached my employer but due to high demand and limited resources my role being 4 days was not feasible. I love my job and team and understood and accepted their reasons. Then another role within the organisation became available, and for the right candidate it could be 4 days a week.

I was successful in obtaining the role for 2 years and will then return to my substantive. The role is a lower income but is worth it.
Trixie is now a Therapy dog and we visit aged care facilities on the Gold Coast & Brisbane. The residents love Trixies shoes as many haven't seen a dog with shoes. They look good but also prevent any possibility of scratches. Her favourite place at aged care is the memory ward, especially during exercise time. Everyone is in a circle and she goes from person to person saying hello, the residents share stories with me about dogs from their childhoods and Trixie takes it all in while getting pats and treats.

When working she is focused, happy, well behaved. When at home she enjoys playing with her doggo brother, digging holes, stealing socks, she has just learnt to use talking buttons and "treat" is her favourite. Some days I think she is going to put me in therapy!!

I love the experiences and people that I have become part of my life, and none of it would have happened without Trixie.

I may have less money in the bank, but a lot more happiness in my life

We believe that no dog should be left behind.

Every dog that enters is eligible for the 2024 People's Choice Award. The winner of the 2024 OZ People's Choice will be decided by you, the people!

This year, we wanted to give the love back to our communities.

Every year, our campaign is supported and celebrated by a variety of incredible charities across Australia, all of whom mahi tirelessly to make a positive impact for dogs in their respected communities.

This year, the winner of the 2024 People Choice's Award will have the value of their doggy prize pack matched and donated to a charity of their choosing.

In addition, every voter will have the opportunity to donate towards one of the 3 incredbile mental health charities or dog organisations.