Assistance / Support / Therapy dogs in Victoria - is it realistic for me to be able to organise one for my 74yo father (stroke victim)?

Hi Kimchi,

Thank you for contacting the Stroke Foundation.

Delta Therapy Dogs is a national non-profit organisation that helps animals bring joy to people. You can request a visit and register a facility for Delta Therapy Dogs on their website or you can contact them directly. Here are their contact details:

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Melbourne Therapy Dogs
Contact: Rachel Muraca
Mobile: 0432 588 477
Email: melbourne@deltasociety.com.au

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Geelong & Regional Victoria Therapy Dogs
Contact: Vanda Iwanowski
Mobile: 0413 450 833
Email: geelong@deltasociety.com.au

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Albury/Wodonga Therapy Dogs
Contact: Rachel Muraca
Phone: 0432 588 477
Email: alburywodonga@deltasociety.com.au

Dogs Victoria are dedicated group of volunteers who with their therapy dogs visit a variety of places around Victoria. These dogs have been well socialised from very early puppyhood, ie. Puppy vet school, going to shopping strips, farmers markets and meeting people in a positive environment. This combined with some basic obedience, sit, stay and walking quietly on a leash are the makings of a potential therapy dog. Further information can be obtained from Nicola Abell Therapy Dog Co-ordinator on 0468 999 610.

You can find some information about training your own dog to become a therapy dog here and here.

I hope you find this helpful.

Please feel to give StrokeLine a call if you have any more questions 1800 787 653 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).

Warm regards,

Chloe & Kath