Troubled war veterans are being urged to sign up for a new program aimed at pairing them with companion dogs.
The program, run by the Melbourne RSL and the Duckboard Club, is intended to bring together war veterans experiencing problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and specially trained dogs rescued from euthanasia by Australian Working Dog Rescue.
It’s estimated that up to 30 per cent of veterans suffer from PTSD.
While the program is being run by the Melbourne RSL, veterans living in Wyndham are being encouraged to apply to take part in the Dogs For Diggers program.
Melbourne RSL and Duckboard Club activities co-ordinator Stephen Meagher-Muchien said it was well accepted that companion animals could provide tangible benefits to people struggling with after-effects of service.
“The fact that this program sees veterans in need and dogs in need coming together to help each other is just tremendous,” he said.
The dogs will be provided to the veterans at no cost. Werribee veteran Keith Walsh, who is working with the program to help veterans in need, said it would make a significant difference in the lives of his former colleagues.
Details: Mr Meagher-Muchien, 0449 537 735
