Changing lives through animal-assisted programs

THE Bacchus Marsh Petstock store’s staff are inviting community members to join them in raising funds for The Petstock Foundation Christmas Project.

The project aims to raise more than $520,000 to help thousands of Australians every week access the animal-assisted programs Story Dogs and Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia (RDA).

RDA Australia helps children and adults with disabilities build strength and confidence through horse-assisted therapy.

The organisation facilitates horse-assisted activities at more than 70 centres nationwide and is aiming to double the number of children it can help by the end of next year.

Story Dogs supports primary school students to improve their literacy skills by reading to therapy dogs.

More than 2900 children are involved the program in 400-plus schools each week, and there is a waiting list of over 500 schools.

Funds raised through the foundation means more therapy horses, more reading dogs, and more children and communities across Australia can access the life-changing services.

Petstock Bacchus Marsh store manager James Barnes said customers can help by donating as little as $2 to the foundation.

“The Petstock Foundation’s Christmas Project is our major end-of-year campaign that helps bring comfort, care and connection through the healing power of animals,” he said.

“With the help of locals in Bacchus Marsh and across the country our goal is to raise over $520,000 for vital animal-assisted programs, empowering a brighter future through comfort, care, and connection for those who need it most.

“At our Bacchus Marsh store, we see firsthand how much animals mean to people, so we’re proud to support organisations like RDA Australia and Story Dogs.

“Their programs bring confidence, companionship, and joy to thousands of Australians every week.

“Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’ve already helped raise $1115.18 locally, contributing to more than $150,000 raised nationally so far.

“Every donation helps change lives and we’re truly grateful for the generous donations that help make animal-assisted programs possible locally in Bacchus Marsh and across Australia.”