Have you ever met a superhero with four paws? Meet Ollie, the four-legged support dog whose only mission is to calm your nervous system and put a smile on your dial.
If you’ve ever had a pet, you’d know the feeling of pure comfort coming home to their waggy tail after a long day. But imagine having a loyal companion present through all our stressful moments, comforting the mind and easing the soul. Well, that’s exactly what 6-year-old Labrador Ollie does full-time.
Each year the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW search for their ‘Canine Hero’, a special award given to dogs having an amazing impact on their communities. This year the honor goes to Ollie, whose remarkable service has touched many lives. With much pride, Ollie will accept her well-deserved award at the Dog Judging Lawn on Best in Show Day at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Ollie began her journey as a support dog at Lifeline Sylvania and is now based in Kiama on the South Coast of NSW. With her handler Judi Sandilands by her side, Ollie travels across the community sharing her comforting energy to a wide range of settings – from hospitals and guide dog programs to court rooms and schools. Judi describes her furry friend’s presence as “an absolute game-changer” for school children. With dog therapy becoming an increasingly recognised tool to manage stress and anxiety, Judi has seen firsthand how Ollie can shift the mindset of both children and adults.
Judi mentioned that though Ollie isn’t naturally outgoing, “she actually seems to target those kids needing support”. The type of kids that “just want to be able to sit and pat that dog” providing a soothing and reassuring presence.
With many people knowing someone who owns a support dog, it’s easy to see just how life- changing these canine companions can be. Thanks to the dedication of skilled trainers, these dogs are equipped with advanced abilities – not only sensing their owners emotional and physical state but also taking action in critical situations.
For her amazing contribution to the community, Ollie will also take home a $1500 cash prize thanks to the Australasian Animal Registry (AAR). Join us to cheer on Ollie as she accepts her Canine Hero award on Easter Monday, at the Sydney Royal Easter Show’s Dog Judging Lawn.
