Assistance Dogs are trained to perform a number of tasks including retrieving, turning light switches on and off, opening and closing doors and other tasks that are difficult or near impossible for a person with physical disabilities confined to a wheelchair. From a wheelchair, these tasks are more complex and time consuming, often leading to frustration and anxiety for the person with a disability, or more often requiring an attendant to carry out these tasks.

Assistance Dogs are already making a dramatic difference in the quality of life for individuals with a physical disability. Having an Assistance Dog relieves the loneliness, social isolation and physical immobility often associated with a disabling injury or illness. They increase the likelihood of the person integrating into the community, by breaking the barrier of people approaching them in a wheelchair and increasing job opportunities since the person is less reliable on others for assistance.

The Honda Foundation is proud to support Assistance Dogs Australia by providing a vehicle for the transportation of staff, volunteers and dogs.

For more information visit: http://www.assistancedogs.org.au/