Assistance Dogs North Queensland

Assistance dogs are trained to help in overcoming limitations in mobility by performing tasks

We are dedicated to the training and promotion of accredited Assistance Dogs

What does an assistance dog do?

Our Assistance dogs are trained to help in overcoming limitations in mobility by performing tasks for their recipients. Tasks include opening and closing doors, assisting with dressing, switching lights on and off, picking up dropped items, fetching objects from cupboards, tables, the fridge, and people, removing washing from the washing machine, and raising an alarm.

Each application is assessed individually to determine whether because of the nature of their physical disability an applicant would benefit from an Assistance Dog and that they would be able to ensure that the dog receives adequate care. If you believe you are a suitable candidate for an Assistance Dog, please download our initial assessment form and submit it to us.

Currently, Assistance Dogs NQ Inc (ASDOGS NQ Inc.) only trains and provides dogs for people with physical disabilities. We do not train or provide therapy dogs, dogs for medical alert, seizure alert, visual or hearing impairments, autism, PTSD or companion dogs. Assistance Dogs NQ Inc (ASDOGS NQ Inc.) does not train or accredit privately owned dogs.

As well as providing this physical service an Assistance dog provides other significant benefits such as:

Reducing feelings of isolation
Giving love, companionship and a sense of hope
Creating opportunities for greater independence and confidence in daily living
Providing opportunities for new friendships, social interaction and involvement in the community
Providing comfort and support in situations the recipient finds stressful

Do I have to pay for the upkeep of my assistance dog?
Currently, Assistance Dogs NQ Inc (ASDOGS NQ Inc.) will provide an assistance dog free of charge to people with physical disabilities who have passed the necessary criteria. Recipients will need to be able to afford the costs associated with having an Assistance Dog i.e., all veterinary care, emergency care and vaccinations, recommended dog food, flea and tick control, worming treatments and the costs of travel and accommodation to have a Public Access Test conducted every 3 years. The dog always remains the property of Assistance Dogs NQ Inc (ASDOGS NQ Inc.).

Who is eligible to apply for an assistance dog from Assistance Dogs NQ Inc (ASDOGS NQ Inc.)?

The following requirements apply for consideration for an Assistance dog:

Have a physical disability
Live in North Queensland (Townsville north), including areas of Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands and its surrounding areas
Are over 12 years of age
Are able to travel for an interview, training and Public Access testing
Have had enough time to come to terms with their disability
Do not have an allergy that would affect working with a dog
Are active enough to utilise a dog
Are able to care for the dog’s physical health and wellbeing - exercise, training, grooming, and financially – all veterinary care, health checks, vaccinations, food, worming treatments, flea and tick control;
Are mobile without human assistance (Not 24-hour care)
Have a disability as defined by the Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act 2009 (PDF)