
Allie
Breed: Border Collie
Barking from: The Basin, VIC
Job title: Support dog
What's up dog?
At 18mths young, Allie has accompanied me since she was a pup, working at my aged care facility where she’s been busy changing the lives of the elderly, providing companionship for those feeling isolated & alone, being a welcome distraction for those suffering dementia or mental illness, & giving reassurance & support for those in palliative care. She instinctively knows when to clown around providing smiles & laughter, or when to stay calm, accepting pats, kisses & cuddles.
Recently my almost 99yr old Nana entered my facility, & suffering with depression after realising she could no longer live independently in her unit, Allie’s helped ease that despair with her quirky characteristics & loving nature.
Now what Nana looks forward to most, is Allie’s visits & affections during our shifts.
The positive impact she has on an individual’s mental health is second to none.
This not only extends to myself, where I simply cannot imagine life without her, but to all the staff where she provides a very welcome distraction, to what is an extremely difficult job.
Allie is the top “Dog with a Job” in everyone’s eyes here at my workplace, & we hope she is in yours too 😊.
2024 OZ Top Dog with a Job award criteria
Purpose
This award celebrates a top dog that makes a positive difference in our society for the work they do to improve human (or animal!) lives on a day-to-day basis.
Reach
Is the dog dedicated to assisting one human, or an entire team or office?
Impact
How big an impact does this dog have in their workplace? Explain how much your canine friend has impacted the office culture, or improved mental health at work or of those around them. Give examples of how they have made an impact.