Our pups are pawfect

Every year on 26 August we celebrate International Dog Day – a time to thank the furry friends in our lives and acknowledge the invaluable work they do in keeping humans healthy. 

Dogs have been man’s best friend for more than 7,000 years – being our companions for hunting, farming, guarding and of course, snuggling up on the couch. 

Today, dogs also play a crucial role as health care professionals. Did you know that petting a pup can lower blood pressure and reduce stress? That’s why we’re seeing more dogs in healthcare settings, caring for humans in our time of need. 

Dogs are a valuable tool for people with disabilities and impairments - acting as guide dogs, protectors and mental health companions. 

And furry friends are a big part of the Connect Health & Community team. 

Volunteer, Leesa, is a big dog lover, and despite not drinking herself, names all of her pets after alcoholic beverages. 

Leesa’s long-time companion, Wine, sadly passed away recently, leaving a hole in the hearts of Leesa and her other dog Martini.  Then along came Merlot, a breeding Labrador with golden white fur who Leesa rescued from a farm. 

Together, Leesa, Martini and Merlot enjoy playing with toys, going for walks and watching dog movies. 

Connect Health & Community also has a very special, fully qualified assistance-dog volunteer, called Jasper. 

Jasper the border collie is a community transport Jockey and helps owner, Brett, transport clients to health appointments and activities from across the communities of Glen Eira and Bayside. 

To continue the International Dog Day celebrations, Leesa recommends giving your pup a bone and watching a classic dog film. 

Leesa’s favourite is ‘A Dogs Journey'. 

For more information on Connect Health & Community’s transport services, call us on (03) 9575 5333 or, visit https://connecthealth.org.au/community-transport/

You might even get to meet Jasper the volunteer pup.