For the Love of Dogs Academy Ltd

For the Love of Dogs Academy Ltd is a disability support organisation based in Sydney’s Northern Beaches that creates meaningful opportunities for people living with disabilities to connect with dogs. The organisation offers a range of programs designed to enhance physical, mental, and social well-being through interaction with dogs, while also providing pathways to employment in the animal care industry. Their inclusive community supports participants to build confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy the benefits of the human-animal bond.

Wag n Walk: Connecting People with Dogs and Community

Wag n Walk is the flagship program of For the Love of Dogs Academy Ltd, pairing people living with disabilities with local volunteers for regular dog walks. This social and fitness-focused program fosters community connection, outdoor exploration, and skill development for participants interested in becoming paid dog walkers. It emphasises building confidence, social skills, and meaningful relationships through enjoyable, tailored walking experiences.

Mission and Vision

The organisation’s mission is to enhance the lives of marginalised community members by leveraging the physical, mental, and social benefits of interacting with dogs. Its vision is to make the benefits of the human-animal bond accessible to all, empowering individuals to connect, grow, and thrive.

Main Objectives

• Provide inclusive programs that enable people with disabilities to spend time with dogs.
• Offer employment training and career pathways in the animal care sector.
• Break down barriers to social connection and employment for people with disabilities.
• Foster community belonging and mutual benefit for both humans and dogs.

Benefiting Groups

The primary beneficiaries are people living with disabilities aged 18 and over who have a passion for dogs. The programs also benefit local dog owners and the wider community by promoting social inclusion and animal welfare.

Types of Services or Activities

• Social and recreational programs such as Wag n Walk, which encourage outdoor activity and social interaction.
• Animal care training including hands-on experience in doggy daycare, grooming, and training services.
• Employment readiness programs offering nationally recognised qualifications in animal care.
• Community engagement initiatives that build connections between participants, volunteers, and local businesses.