Assistance Dog Australia launches Puppy Academy to boost assistance dog numbers

Assistance Dog Australia has introduced a new Puppy Academy aimed at doubling the supply of assistance dogs within three years. The programme follows a litter of six Labrador puppies—Venetia, Virgil, Vanilla, Volt, Velvet and Vienna—from birth through early training, socialisation and eventual placement with partners who need support for PTSD, autism, physical disabilities and related conditions. Each dog costs more than $60,000 and requires two years of intensive training. Supporters can join as bronze, silver or gold members, receiving exclusive updates on the pups’ progress. Membership contributions fund expert trainers, veterinary care, specialised equipment and the intensive training needed to ready each dog for its role in enhancing the independence of its future handler.