An international group that breeds, raises and trains assistance and service dogs is seeking to raise awareness about a threat to the supply of “life-changing assistance dogs” — due to a global shortage of volunteers.
And local Burnaby charity Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS) is helping spread the word..
In a press release, Assistance Dogs International (ADI) warns that a surge in demand for all types of assistance dogs, combined with a fall-off in volunteer numbers post pandemic, will lead to shortage of life-changing assistance dogs in the communities.
ADI, as part of International Assistance Dog Week from Aug. 7 to 11, has therefore launched a global campaign called Life Changers to attract new volunteers.
Anyone can reach out to nearby organizations including PADS in Burnaby, to volunteer and make a difference.
“People who volunteer to care for assistance dog puppies and dogs in training are doing something amazing,” said Laura Watamanuk, executive director of PADS. “They play a vital role in training dogs that really do save and change people’s lives by helping with practical tasks, enhancing independence, and boosting well-being, dignity and confidence.”
In an earlier NOW story, Watamanuk noted the demand for assistance dogs has increased by 30 per cent from pre-pandemic levels. That means the group has to continually recruit and retain significant numbers of volunteers to help raise their puppies.
“During the pandemic there was an outpouring of support — financial and time — but in the time since, we’ve seen a lot of compassion fatigue, and we’re struggling to recruit and retain volunteers,” she said.
ADI executive director Chris Diefenthaler said, “People with a range of disabilities are having to wait up to two years for a dog which could massively improve their quality of life.”
“Some of our members say the shortage has reached a critical stage because demand for assistance dogs has never been higher. They are having to turn away applicants because a shortage of volunteers means they can’t train assistance dogs fast enough to meet the need.”
Although people may have busy lives and feel they may not have the time, experience or capacity to volunteer, the rewards are incredible, added Watamanuk.
To make a difference in the society by volunteering or making a donation, visit their website.
