There is a new top dog at Townsville Grammar School.
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Boarders have welcomed Aggie, a Smart Pup Assistance Dog, who they will be caring for as part of a partnership with not-for-profit agency, Smart Pups.
Aggie will be the first in a series of dogs that will find a home with Townsville Grammar School boarding until they are fully trained and ready to find a new home as an assistance dog to a child with special needs.
Director of Boarding, Jaye Beutel, said the students were thrilled to have the opportunity, especially when many missed their own pets at home.
"We are very excited to have formed this foster-home partnership with Smart Pup Assistance Dogs as part of our boarding service program," Director of Boarding, Jaye Beutel said.
"Aggie will spend six months with us as she undergoes her training to become an assistance dog for a child with special needs.
"There is a small group of boarders who will take the lead in the care of Aggie, and who will undergo training by the local Smart Pups Co-Ordinator.
"However, Aggie will very much be a part of our overall boarding community, and all students and staff will be able to play a part in her care and general training.
"The Boarding School environment is an ideal residence for a dog-in-training, as it's important that they are exposed to wide and varied environments as part of their readiness to be a fully qualified service dog.
"Our only challenge will be letting her go to her new owner at the end of the six months."
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