What is a Companion Dog?
A Companion Dog helps improve the quality of life of adults and children living with disability, illness, or experiencing life challenges.
They can provide meaningful support by:
• Assisting with everyday challenges
• Offering friendship, comfort and companionship
• Providing a calming and reassuring presence
Please note: Companion Dogs do not have public access rights like Guide and Assistance Dogs.
Companion Dogs have participated in Guide Dogs WA puppy development program, had basic skill training with our highly skilled trainers, and are chosen in this career pathway that best suits the dog’s skills, abilities and temperament. Companion Dogs bring comfort, connection and hope to people facing life’s toughest challenges.
Who can apply for a Companion Dog?
Each dog in the Guide Dogs WA training program is regularly assessed throughout its training journey, and a career is chosen that best suits the dog’s skills, abilities and characteristics.
A limited number of Companion Dogs are placed each year, and successful applications will be placed on a waitlist until a suitable match is identified.
The following eligibility requirements apply:
Be an adult or child living in Western Australia with disability, illness or life challenges, who has been assessed by Guide Dogs WA and identified as benefiting from a Companion Dog
Demonstrate the ability to care for a dog, including associated financial responsibilities (food, veterinary care, bedding and toys)
Be willing to provide a safe (securely fenced), loving home, with the dog living inside the home
Meet Guide Dogs WA home assessment and handling requirements
Demonstrate a willingness to maintain health, welfare and training of the dog.
Successful applicants may be placed on a waitlist until a suitable match is identified. All Companion Dog placements include a trial period.
If the placement is considered suitable, Guide Dogs WA will complete the required documentation and transfer ownership of the dog.
Please note: A fee will be incurred for the purchase of a Companion Dog, which will be assessed at time of matching. Companion Dogs are currently not funded under the NDIS program.
Please complete the application form below to make an initial enquiry. Please download the application form if you would prefer to submit by post.Â
If you have any further questions or need assistance with this form please contact us on (08) 9311 8202 or email info@guidedogswa.com.au
