Whilst developing our team of dogs, we have always marvelled at the interaction between children and puppies. When the right child meets the right dog, there is a bond that forms instantly, with an understanding and trust between both parties. It has been said many times that it is the dog that choses the owner, and in many cases that is so true.

PADS has been set up on a "Not for Profit" basis, to develop a program for bringing dogs into the lives of families living with disability. We pre-train and mentor puppies both here and in the home, to enrich the lives of families and children.

We also work with trainers and organisations around the country to provide our special dogs.

This is a picture of one of our pups who is in training. The young lady next to her has Autism and Aspergers, this was a very precious moment for her family to see her bond with this puppy for the day and be able to communicate with the people around her.

ABOUT ADELE AND HER DOGS

Adele has spent over 20year working for Pets as Therapy,-UK, as a Volunteer, Area Co-ordinator, Speaker and Area Charity Events Organiser as well as being a Qualified Canine Temperament Assessor.

Adele's first job was in commercial catering with engineers working for the the Local Councils, Ministry of Defence etc on Multi Million Pound Projects. During this time she also worked and was heavily involved in the development of the tourism industry for a one of the biggest tourism attractions in Wales until her divorce some 10years ago. This change in her life also gave her a new direction.

She has been in charge of some 1500 staff for a National Media Company and worked with people from various backgrounds and has helped disadvantages adults and children during her life. She also owned and ran 2 large agricultural businesses as well as a 60seater cafe/restaurant.

Adele was awarded the Prestigious "Two Ticks for Disabilities Employers Award" which she is proud of achieving. This was for her work employing, working and understanding Disabled People.

One of her other passions was helping out at the local stables for Riding for the Disabled in her spare time and spending time at the local beach with her Golden Retrievers.

In the past 10years Adele has also had to overcome her own illnesses of an inoperable Brain Cyst, partial paralysis in her right arm due to a riding accident and now recently being diagnosed with an Under Active Thyroid and is battling to keep on top of this condition.

Adele could see a need in the UK for Therapy and Assistance Dogs especially in the fields of Autism, Aspergers, Developmental and Behavioural Disorders in children and young adults so hence why she researched and started breeding the Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever/Poodle) as well as the faithful Golden Retriever. She would like in the future to be able to introduce different breeds into her program but it all takes time and lots of money. Adele also believes that the local dog pounds are alway a great place to look for the special dog who can make a difference in life.

Her first puppy she bred went to Hearing Dogs-UK and then after that a number of pups went into private families with disabilities before returning to Australia after 20years in the UK. Adele and her husband Adam brought their foundation dogs with them from the UK, this was at huge expense but nothing would have parted them from their dogs, the dedication and passion they have for their dogs is seen where ever you go.

After their dogs endured 26hrs on a plane from the UK to Australia and then 30 days in quarantine it was a relief to get the dogs back to them. They are very proud of their dogs and the first litter born in Australia had a little girl who went to Guide Dogs, SA where "Karma) is now working with children with Disabilities.

After this Adele and Adams life seems to spiral, more and more of her dogs were then asked for to work with families with the oldest recently going to a 65year old gentleman with Autism. It has been a hard 3 years for Adele and Adam as they have had to keep moving home due to Adams work and have not been able to put down routes however they have now purchased their home Two Mile Park near Gulgong where they will continue to progress with their passion for their dogs as Therapy and Assistance Dogs.

Adele and Adam would like to see PADS move from strength to strength with the locals being fully involved in this organisation and to make this a community program and anyone interested in coming on board please feel free to contact them.

Adele and Adam intend to work within the ADI framework for Assistance Dogs and believe that once the dog has been thoroughly socialised, that their place is in the family home.

Volunteers are always welcome to come and lend a hand. If you think you can assist in any way, please contact here