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A GROUP of special canines was hosted by members of the Mildura RSL this week as they undertake a journey to make a lasting difference in the lives of veterans in Western Australia

“Operation Dogs to WA” was the brainchild of Montmorency Eltham RSL president Glenn Ferraroto and vice-president service Andrew Hallon, both veterans themselves, who will make the 2000km road trip to personally deliver five assistance dogs to veterans in Perth.

It costs tens of thousands of dollars to train an assistance dog, which help veterans suffering PTSD and assist them to find a sense of purpose, keep active and get out into the community.

Mr Ferraroto said the road trip was prompted by the reopening of the WA border and a desire to keep the dogs among familiar faces throughout the journey.

Foster carers have looked after the dogs for the past 12 months including one family who wrote a timeline of their dog’s stay to hand over to the new veteran owner.

Mildura RSL veteran services manager Paul Mensch said it was great to play a small part to help the handlers and the assistance dogs get to those who need them most.

“We threw the welcome mat out and had some young veterans on hand to meet and greet as they make their way to the West Australian border,” Mr Mensch said.

“It’s a long process to train these dogs to the standard that is needed, including gaining an ability to pick up on the mood of veterans and helping them through that process,” he said.

Article written by: Allan Murphy

Article provided by The Sunraysia Daily
https://www.sunraysiadaily.com.au/