For more than 30 years Lort Smith’s pet therapy program has been bringing comfort, happiness and relief to people experiencing illness, pain, adversity and loneliness.

Our flagship projects focus on the human-animal bond, helping young people at risk, cancer patients in hospital and the elderly in care, just to name a few.

And now we are excited to announce that applications for the 2026 intake for Pet Therapy volunteers has officially opened.

Community Partnerships Manager, Megan Nutbean, said people generally volunteer with pet therapy dogs because it allows them to give something back to the community and allows them to witness the significant positive impact their dogs have on the well-being of others.

‘’Many volunteers have a passion for helping others and find great satisfaction in working with their dogs to make a difference in people’s lives,’’ said Ms Nutbean.

‘’There are many different types of dogs that participate in the program. However, dogs must be at least 18 months old, in good health and up-to-date with all vaccinations, flea and worm treatments. They must also have great manners, enjoy receiving affection from people they don’t know, and must be calm and approachable in new environments, and around new people and other dogs.’’

Ms Nutbean said the program does not accept restricted-breed dogs, working assistance/service dogs, dogs trained in guard or protection work, dogs that drool excessively, or dogs with any history of aggression.

Lort Smith will be holding two information nights early month for those interested in becoming a pet therapy volunteer team. Find out more: https://lortsmith.com/our-programs/pet-therapy

 

MEDIA INTERVIEWS & CONTACT

Suzana Talevski: Head of Media and Digital Content, Lort Smith
Mobile: 0403 047 945
Email: stalevski@lortsmith.com