Rest and relief for assistance dogs

A DEDICATED place for assistance dogs to rest and have some relief is now accessible in the centre of Ballarat.

Established on the Doveton Street South green space next to Target and the multi-storey carpark, the area is fenced, but not enclosed, with a shelter, water fountain, and bin.

Guide and seeing eye dogs, assistance puppies in training, and therapy dogs are able to take a break with their handlers there.

An initiative originally recommended by the City of Ballarat Disability Advisory Committee, the relief zone has also been decorated with a mural created by local artist Sandra Minchin, who lives with a disability.

The space was officially opened last week by deputy-mayor Cr Peter Eddy and Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison, and has been funded by the municipality and State Government’s Living Local Regional Grants Program.

Darren Williams attended the opening event with his 14-month guide dog puppy-in-training Hansel and said this sort of infrastructure is invaluable as they learn.

“It makes a difference for a puppy, but it also trains them to toilet on unusual surfaces like astro turf, and in strange locations,” he said.

“The dogs may be used to only going at home, or in a particular spot, so the relief area teaches the puppy that this is somewhere they can go.”

Cr Eddy said the City’s Disability Advisory Committee reported people with assistance dogs are often harassed when their canine helpers relieve themselves in public.

“A dedicated facility not only helps people with guide and assistance dogs to feel safe, but it is an opportunity for the community to become more aware of the needs of others,” he said.

“I’m incredibly proud that the City of Ballarat is pioneering projects and programs, like the assistance dog relief area, that are making our community an even more inclusive place to live.”

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the relief area is all about community inclusivity and accessibility.

“It is so important that we invest in the facilities needed not only for people, but for guide and assistance dogs,” she said.

“The new relief area will provide peace of mind for community members as well as visitors to our city.”