Herbie works with young people in out-of-home care, helping them relax and talk about what’s on their minds.
Image: Close-up of Herbie with a person hugging him from behind. Every Story Matters - Logo.
Herbie is a Senior Animal Therapist at Life Without Barriers, offering therapeutic support to young people in care. Herbie has shared what it is like working with young people.
Image: Herbie and Andrea sitting outside together.
"My name is Herbie, but most of my friends and family call me Good Boy. I am a therapist and was trained at the Harvard of Doggo Universities, Guide Dogs NSW. I left the program with a qualification in Animal Assisted Therapy (one level below a service Guide Dog). Some say that I wasn’t up to scratch, but I maintain that I decided to pursue a career in therapy because it gives me greater creative expression in my work with children, young people and families as well as the staff I work alongside. There are also WAY more perks like head scratches and treats.
There are heaps of benefits of having a therapy dog. Firstly, I don’t have thumbs so with the older kids, I’m pretty good at getting them to stop playing video games and go outside for a walk. I mean, who doesn’t love a walk? It’s the best time of the day to find sticks.
Anyway, I’m also pretty good at getting young people to relax and talk about what’s on their minds. I've been told I’m a great listener and there’s something about my fluffy ears and big brown eyes that helps kids trust me. I help them feel comforted and regulated, can inspire conversations about connecting with family, friends and other pets and often woof on about planning for independence and the responsibility of pet ownership.
I’ve been told I'm good at helping young people to open up, engage and trust. I think that’s because we have a pretty similar experience. Having been removed from my family at a young age, moving around a bit for work and now finding a home with my mum, who also works for Life Without Barriers.
I love meeting people, getting kids to the local dog park to make dog and human friends, laying about in the sun, playing chase, being patted, swimming, snacks and having my photo taken. I used to love reading but as I get older, I just don’t have the time to devour books.
Anyway, that’s enough about me, it’s time for my walkies!"
Image: Herbie walking on a pathway with two individuals by his side.
Herbie is a star employee, and we're thrilled to have him at Life Without Barriers providing comfort, companionship, and emotional support to the children and young people in our care. We know Herbie is super cute, as all dogs are, but we want to remind you about working dog etiquette! When working and wearing a harness, a Guide Dog or Assistance Dog should not be touched, fed or distracted from guiding its handler, they have an important job to do!
