Animal Companions | Australian Veterans' Connect Program
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Companions

Image by Eric Ward
Image by Karlijn Prot
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DVA Assistance Dog Programs

Please Note: DVA does not provide companion or emotional support dogs. An assistance dog must be individually trained to perform work or tasks directly related to the veteran’s disability, while a companion or emotional support dog provides comfort and coping assistance to an individual.

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24th February each year 

National Day for War Animals

National Day for War Animals is available on the 

Australian War Memorial website

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The National Day for War Animals The Purple Poppy recognises the extraordinary loyalty and courage of all animals who serve alongside our military in times of war and peace. On the frontlines of conflict protecting and supporting our diggers, or in the homes of veterans living with the trauma of service, these often unsung heroes have earned a place in the hearts of all Australians.

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Attributed to The Purple Poppy

Attributed to Military Shop

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Dogs
Image by Eric Ward

Emotional or Support Dog?

Both emotional support and assistance dogs help us deal with our everyday struggles, but they are not treated the same in Australia.  The animals differ by their public access rights. Assistance are entitled to access all public places such as shops, hotels, restaurants and hospitals, as well as travelling on public transport and in taxis. Owners of emotional support animals don’t have the same rights as assistance animals. An emotional support dog is considered a companion dog, whereas an assistance dog is a dog that has gone through extensive training to assist a person with a disability.  Their rights and roles are defined by the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and each State have their own rules and regulations.

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Assistance Dog - Training your own animal

Assistance Dog - State Based Approvals Rules & Regulations

Equine
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The Path of the Horse is a registered Charity that helps our Veterans with unique supports via Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are based in Trentham Vic and surrounded on three sides by the great Wombat Forest and assisted by 10 beautiful horses and some of them that know too much about trauma in their past lives.

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For over seven years, we've dedicated ourselves to supporting veterans, first responders and their families. Our place serves as a safe haven, offering support distinct from traditional Psychology. We are proud of our reputation within the veteran community, built on genuine care and impactful work. Our approach is powerful, holistic, effective, and empathetic, fostering positive changes and an improved life for our clients.

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Path of the Horses

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