By KATRINA BRANDON
TRARALGON dalmatians Luka and April were named as finalists in the OZTOPDOGS competition.
The pups were entered in the Top Office Dog and People’s Choice categories for the first time alongside 300 entries, becoming one of 12 finalists.
Kerina White, the pup’s owner, saw the competition on Facebook, and thought seeing how her four-legged friends would do would be fun.
The OZTOPDOG was created by recruiting firm people2people, which has been conducting research for nine years on mental health support from dogs.
April and Luka spend their days in the office at Daily Living Disability Services, Traralgon. Ms White told the Express that her colleagues and participants have enjoyed having the pups around, whether to destress or boost morale.
“Both April and Luka have an innate ability to sense the emotions of those around them. They provide comfort and support when participants feel anxious or overwhelmed, creating a safe and welcoming environment,” Ms White said.
“Their presence also helps when participants are overwhelmed, and their moods change.”
During a session recently, one of Ms White’s participants at the disability centre was upset due to a personal issue in a group session. She said that Luka noticed the participant’s emotions and approached her slowly with a ball in his mouth to draw attention away from her feelings.
“Luka encouraged the participant to engage with him. She began to smile and respond, slowly breaking the cycle of her negative thoughts,” Ms White said.
“Through their unique abilities, April and Luka not only prevented the escalation of the participant’s emotions, but also fostered a sense of community and understanding among everyone present. This experience highlighted the powerful impact of animal therapy in creating a supportive environment.”
Luka and April are active in the workplace and participate in community events, such as riding on Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath’s Christmas float.
While Luka and April didn’t win ‘Top Dogs,’ Ms White said she couldn’t be prouder of her dogs.
“Being finalists in the OZTOPDOGS for 2024 is a team effort together with April and Luka,” she said.
“I am also grateful to everyone who supports us, especially the wonderful individuals we’ve had the privilege to work with.
“Being finalists in the 2024 OZTOPDOGS competition means so much to us because it highlights the importance of inclusion in the workplace with dogs. April and Luka are a bridge that connects people and brings smiles to the faces of whoever they meet.
“I couldn’t be happier that April and Luka were crowned finalists this year.”
