Placement Program

Every assistance dog journey is unique, and we're honoured to be part of yours. At Wild Waggers, our assistance dogs are thoughtfully selected, carefully raised, and professionally trained to provide reliable support while becoming a cherished member of your family.

For the right person, an assistance dog can provide greater independence, confidence, and support in everyday life. We welcome applications from people of all ages and recognise that every individual's circumstances, goals, and support needs are different. Whether you're seeking an assistance dog for yourself or a loved one, we'll guide you through every step of the process to determine whether an assistance dog is the right fit and, if so, carefully match you with a dog suited to your lifestyle and needs.

Our focus is on creating lasting partnerships built on trust, understanding, and mutual connection. By carefully matching each dog with the right individual, we strive to develop teams that can navigate everyday life with confidence, independence, and unwavering support.

Future Partners

Meet Finnian

Finnian is one of Wild Waggers future assistance dog prospects, currently training to become a Gluten Detection Assistance Dog. This sweet Cavalier has already captured hearts with his gentle nature, eagerness to learn, and love for being by your side.

As Finnian grows, he will begin learning the specialised skills needed to detect gluten, helping provide greater confidence and independence to someone living with coeliac disease. Alongside his scent work, he'll spend the next stage of his journey building impeccable manners, confidence in a variety of environments, and the reliability expected of a fully trained assistance dog.

While he still has plenty of growing and learning ahead of him, every training session, new experience, and wagging tail brings him one step closer to changing someone's life. We can't wait to share his journey with you as he works towards becoming a trusted lifelong companion and assistance dog.

Placement Process 

1. Submit an Application

Complete our Placement Application so we can learn about your needs, lifestyle, and the support you're looking for.

2. Initial Consultation

We'll arrange a consultation to discuss your application, answer questions, and determine whether one of our assistance dogs is the right fit.

3. Finding the Right Match

Every dog has a unique personality and skill set. We carefully match each dog to the person and environment they'll thrive in.

4. Handler Training

Before placement, you'll learn how to work confidently with your assistance dog and maintain the skills they've been trained to perform.

5. Placement Day

Your assistance dog joins your family, and together you'll begin your new journey with guidance from our team.

6. Ongoing Support

Our support doesn't end on placement day. We're here to provide ongoing guidance and assistance as you and your dog settle into life together.

Included With Your Placement

Each placement includes:

  • Fully trained assistance dog
  • Public access training complete
  • Individual task training
  • Custom working gear
  • Transition training sessions
  • Training records/PAE Certificate
  • Ongoing guidance and support
  • Lifetime return-to-organisation policy if circumstances ever change.

Tasks Our Dogs Can Be Trained For

  • Retrieval of items
  • Deep pressure therapy
  • Anxiety support
  • Safety interruption
  • Medical alert & support
  • And more, tailored to you

Every assistance dog is individually trained to perform tasks that support their handler's unique needs. Depending on the placement, tasks may include gluten detection, medical alert, psychiatric support, autism support, retrievals, deep pressure therapy, and other personalised skills designed to promote greater independence and confidence.

Estimated Wait Time

18-24 Months

Wait times vary depending on training progress and the needs of each applicant. Every assistance dog is carefully selected, raised, and trained before being matched with the right person. As every placement is tailored to the individual's needs, wait times can vary depending on dog availability and training progress. Our priority is finding the right lifelong partnership—not simply the fastest placement.

Investment in Independence

Includes:

  • Professional training
  • Matching & placement
  • Handover training
  • Equipment package
  • Lifelong follow-up support

Payment Options

We offer a range of flexible payment options to help make your partnership possible.

  • Payment plans available
  • Deposit & installment 
  • Fundraising Support & guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for a fully trained assistance dog?

Anyone living with a disability who would benefit from an assistance dog is welcome to apply. There is no age restriction, and we welcome applications for both children and adults.

How do I apply?

Simply complete our Placement Application form. Once we've reviewed your application, we'll contact you to discuss the next steps.

How are dogs matched to applicants?

Every placement is carefully considered. We match our available dog/s based on their temperament, training, and personality, along with your individual needs and lifestyle.

Will I receive training before taking my dog home?

Yes. We provide handler training so you feel confident working with your new assistance dog before placement.

Can I apply if I live outside Queensland?

 Yes. Interstate applications are welcome, although additional travel arrangements may be required

What if my application isn't approved?

If we believe one of our dogs isn't the right fit at this time, we'll explain why and discuss any other options that may better suit your circumstances

Begin your journey towards finding the right assistance dog.

Our team is here to help every step of the way.

Learn more about our assistance dog placements and what to expect.