Dogs enrich lives.
Ours save them.

“As with everything in life, we can do so much more together than alone”

What is your everyday job?

Currently a director in Defence People Group, Department of Defence.

How did you come to be an Ambassador for Integra Service Dogs?

I was invited by Ben Johnson the CEO, following my involvement with Integra in 2023. I was quick to say yes!

What does holding this position mean for you?

It’s an honour to be associated with Integra and I don’t take it lightly. Sharing my knowledge of Integra’s mission is a real icebreaker and I love being able to bring awareness but just about service dogs but about mental health.  

PTSD is the second most common mental health issue after depression, and for many serving members, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a burden they carry with them long after their service ends. 

What superpower do you bring to the role?

Fortunate to work in a military and civilian environment plus I have experience working in communications and presenting so I understand the power of story telling and tailoring messaging to different audiences. 

What unique way have supported Integra?

Breaking a Guinness World Record for the heaviest sumo deadlift in 60 seconds (female), I lifted a massive 4935kg, beating the previous holders record by over 900kg….and raising over $20,000 was a pretty unique way to introduce myself!  I had an idea to break a world record as a personal achievement, but using it to promote Integra’s work was the best part.  The fact that so many people donated was astounding, and it hit home that as with everything in life, we can do so much more together than alone.

What are you looking forward to?

To see more Integra Asisstance Dogs out and about because it means more people have benefited from Integra’s great work. It means there’s more support available for the people that need it most, I think that’s what we all want.

Read more about Jess’s achievement here

In January 2022, Roxy bounded into our lives with a wagging tail and an undeniable zest for making everyone feel better. She wasn’t just a pet; she quickly became the heart of our family.

One of the most unforgettable moments of our journey together was our trip to the ocean. It had been ages since we had ventured there as a family, but with Roxy in tow, the experience was nothing short of magical. The way she sprinted across the sand and chased waves made us laugh, we don’t know who enjoyed the experience more.

Roxy’s impact on our family life has been profound. Her presence fills our home with happiness, fun, and a sense of calm in equal measure. Of course, there’s also the occasional challenge of finding space on the bed when she decides to sneak up during the night shhh.

Her superpower? Roxy has an uncanny ability to sense when one of us needs her comforting presence the most, often before we even realize it ourselves.

When she’s not wearing her jacket, Roxy has a few favorite activities: balloon tennis ranks first, followed closely by an enthusiastic game of fetch, and then enjoying dinner (her third favorite, but certainly not in that order of importance).

Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate every opportunity to bring Roxy to work with me. There’s something about having her by my side that makes the day brighter and more enjoyable. And of course, nothing beats a leisurely stroll around the block with my furry best friend.

Roxy isn’t just a dog; she’s woven herself into the fabric of our lives, bringing joy, companionship, and a reminder of the simple pleasures that make every day special.

The impact of Service Dogs on the lives of Veterans and First Responders is nothing short of transformative. Through specialised training, these dogs become attuned to the unique needs of their human handlers. One of their primary roles is to mitigate PTSD symptoms, offering a tangible and immediate positive effect on the quality of life for those who have served their communities.

A new study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health has found that pairing returned veterans with assistance dogs can have a significant positive effect on their mental health symptoms.

Veterans reported their dog helped them “reclaim their life,” giving them independence and a way to manage their mental health issues and fluctuating emotions, including hypervigilance.

Some participants described their dog as “a comfort or security blanket,” with one veteran saying they were a recluse for many years until being matched with an assistance dog: “Now, every day is an adventure, giving me something to look forward to”.

Task-Specific Support:

These four-legged heroes go beyond the realms of traditional therapy by performing specific tasks tailored to the challenges posed by PTSD. In moments of panic or distress, Service Dogs step in with a calming presence, redirecting focus, and offering a soothing touch. They become expert companions in the night, waking individuals from nightmares and creating a sanctuary of safety within the darkness.

In public spaces, our Service Dogs become a source of confidence for their Client/Handlers. Whether it’s navigating crowded areas or facing social interactions, the dog’s unwavering support instils a newfound sense of self-assurance. The once debilitating hyperarousal, hypervigilance, and anxiousness that often accompany PTSD are alleviated, paving the way for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Social Facilitators and Reconnection:

Perhaps one of the most extraordinary aspects of Service Dogs is their role as social facilitators. Beyond being constant companions, these dogs act as bridges, helping individuals reconnect with friends, family, and their community. The stigma and isolation that often accompany PTSD are shattered, replaced by the comfort and connection that emanate from the presence of a well-trained Service Dog.

The power of these canine companions extends far beyond the individual. As Assistance Dogs like those from Integra Service Dogs Australia make their way into the lives of veterans and first responders, they create a ripple effect of healing and resilience within families and the broader community.

In every new bond between our Service Dogs and their new Client/Handler, there lies a testament to the transformative journey and healing power of connection. These devoted companions, with their ability to reduce symptoms, instil confidence, and foster social connections, stand as living proof that sometimes, the key to healing is found in the unconditional love and support of a loyal four-legged friend.

When did you get Bella?
Ben first brought Bella to our house in September 2021. It was initially as a visit, but we asked if Bella could stay for a couple of days to see how she fitted in. The first night proved Bella’s presence to be invaluable, when she woke me when I was having a nightmare. From that point, Bella has been with us and is an integral and loved part of the family. She ended up staying with us and remains to this very day.

What’s special about Bella?
Everything. Bella is like my own personal medical monitor. I call her my guardian angel. She is so attuned to me and my PTSD. She seems to have a built-in radar that picks up when I am angry, anxious, unhappy, and sad. She follows me around the house checking on me all the time. I cannot even go to the bathroom without her sitting outside the door. She is also a massive part of our family and has shown my wife who had a fear of dogs, that like Bella, assistance dogs are different.

What has been a highlight of your journey together?
With each passing day, we get closer, and our companionship leaves me feeling wanted and safe. Recently, I lost a son and needed to travel without Bella to arrange his funeral. Some may ask why travel without Bella. I find that very long and quick trips are taxing for Bella, throws her monitoring of me into overdrive. What I can say is, that when we are apart, we miss each other and on my return from any trip, we are so relieved to see each other. Any sad thoughts, anxiety, or troubled sleep, become the last thing on my mind and for Bella, its like she has not seen me for years. Lots of cuddles, kisses and down time together.

What’s her favourite thing to do when not wearing her jacket?
People see Bella with her jacket on and say how gentle and well behaved she is. I think one thing that I love about her is that she has another wild and wacky side, and you only need to remove the jacket to see her as a normal playful dog. Other than spending hours watching me, we have hours of fun time together. Chasing a ball for Bella, is like a day at the fun park for a kid. She loves to wrestle, play with a squeaky ball, and most of all she loves to swim. It can be the river or beach, and regardless of the temperature, she just goes crazy, swimming for as long as you will let her.

How would you describe your recent adventure appearing on The Voice together?
My appearance on TV gave me the opportunity to raise further awareness of the plight of veterans and how important the assistant dogs provided by Ben and his team at Integra are in helping veterans to cope with their fight against PTSD.

What are you looking forward to doing together?
Xmas/New Year is a big time for us. This year Bella and I are going to Batemans Bay with the family, then Bella and I will travel to Parkes for the Elvis Festival alone. Then on to Tamworth, where I will be busking and promoting my singing and most importantly the Integra Service Dog program. It is my intent to donate half of any money made during busking to the Integra Program. Then we will just have to see where 2024 takes us.

Inca turned up at my door accompanied by Ben and Alberto some time around the end of May 2022. We haven’t been apart for more than a very few hours when I had to visit a doctor who had a dog allergy and she couldn’t come with me.

I frequently get agitated and disassociated when out and about. Inca is really good at keeping me grounded and bringing me back to reality. One of the things she does which really helps is pressing the button at the traffic lights without me telling her. This stops me from crossing the road against the lights. It has probably stopped me from being hit by a car a few times. This is her superpower. Lassie and Rin Tin Tin are amateurs.

The highlights of our journey together are being able to travel on planes, trains and automobiles and to go camping in the bush near the beach in a two person tent. But also being able to use Inca as a starting point to talk about how PTSD affects people, especially to younger children.

I would be dead without Inca as she has saved my skin too many times.

Inca’s favourite thing to do when not wearing her jacket and looking after me is swimming in the surf and running at the beach preferably whilst chasing a ball.

We are looking forward to camping all the way around Australia to see all the big things, like the big potato, the big cane toad etc.

When did you get Ivy?
I received Ivy on 24 April 2020. It was right in the middle of Covid and Ivy was needing to be rehomed due to her previous handler becoming allergic to her. I had only applied two weeks prior, but due to planes being grounded, I was matched up with Ivy. It was honestly meant to be as she is absolutely perfect for me! My fiance at the time was in the Middle East Arabian Gulf, so it definitely happened very quickly, but like I said it was meant to be!

What’s special about Ivy?
How Ivy is able to connect with me and know when I am struggling. The biggest thing ivy does for me, which has been absolutely life-changing is how she wakes me up before my nightmares are in full force. Words can not express how life changing it has been to have Ivy being able to do this for me. So really, Ivy’s work really starts when everyone is asleep- it’s awesome to know that Ivy has the con! There is honestly not one person in this world who doesn’t love Ivy. From the crankiest veteran, to people ‘who aren’t dog lovers’ to the toughest SAS man- they all fall for Ivy’s beautiful and soft nature.

What has been a highlight of your journey together?
How can I choose just one! Ivy and I have been on the news a number of times and as much as she doesn’t like getting her photo taken, she has made the newspaper many times. She has met the entire West Coast Eagles team (who just absolutely fell in love with her!), she has been in business class in business class onboard the RAAF KC30, she has met the Governor General and his wife (who also fell deeply in love with Ivy girl,she is welcome to retire there if she wishes), she has won the 2022 WA RSPCA Gold Award, she has claimed Bethesda Hospital in Cockburn WA as her second home and she confidently walks around responding to anyone who needs. Ivy has also sat on the leather chairs inside WA’s Parliament House (with her fellow Integra pal George) and she is the first K9 to earn her ‘Resilience Shield Mentor’ pin which was so gorgeous!

What’s her favourite thing to do when not wearing her jacket?
Ivy absolutely loves going to the doggy beach down at Rockingham foreshore. She instantly smiles and is such a social butterfly.

What are you looking forward to doing together?
Ivy and I have a lot of things planned. We have yoga and meditation classes for veterans and first responders planned to roll out this year as well as some coaching and mentoring and also a little surprise that will be unveiled in the near future.

You are a passionate supporter of Assistance Dogs – what are raising awareness for at the moment?
I am very passionate about what service dogs provide individuals and getting education out into the public as well as educating our government is very close to my heart. You would be surprised how many state and federal politicians don’t know what the legal rights are of service dogs let alone not to pat them whilst they are wearing their jackets!

Through education, it will make handlers navigate their service dogs more easily and hopefully will minimise the questions that I am asked on a daily basis that can stop me from taking Ivy out in public. This also expands into retired military and first responder working dogs whose needs are placed onto the handlers once they are no longer fit for service. As you can imagine, this places a huge financial burden onto their handlers (who generally are veterans themselves) who have developed a very close bond, just like that of a service dog and their handler. This is something the government needs to look into and take the responsibility of. It all comes down to education.

When did you get Trevor?
Easter 2021.Handover was simple – and Trevor and I just clicked straight away, Ben nailed finding the right dog for me. Being gifted an Integra Service Dog has been a priceless life changing experience – I am so grateful for the opportunity.

What’s special about Trevor?
The loving nature of him and his constant vigilance, he is always watching over me – Trevor won’t let him out of his sight, always by his side. He know how to put on happy ears and that brings a smile everyone.

What has been a highlight of your journey together?
Last year we travelled to the Northern most tip of Australia – it was a long time ambition of mine that would not have been possible without Trevor by my side. We camped every night under stars and true to form Trevor was right next to me in the swag. This trip was so special and a real highlight being in nature together and going on a big adventure – a very special time.

What has the impact of Trevor been on family life?
Trevor is really good around the family and they are all learning that he is a working dog not a pet – even my grandson knows now when Trevor has his jacket on not to talk to him or distract him as he is working. I am more relaxed with Trevor around and that improves my ability to connect in social situations.

What is Trevor’s super power?
Trevor brings a smile to my face in hard times – he is able to divert my attention to him and refocus me. I don’t think of him as a dog, he is my mate, he brings so much joy to my life. He is also very good at putting a heavy paw on me, to wake me when I am starting to have bad dreams. He senses when I am anxious in crowds and helps move me to a safe quiet spot to catch my breath – he is just so smart!

What’s his favourite thing to do when not wearing his jacket?
Play time in the afternoon after dinner – squeaky toy Foxy comes out and is thoroughly bounced around the yard. We have a big game, lots of running around and jumping up. He loves his food and is always up for a treat.

What are you looking forward to doing together?
I am a competitive clay target shooter and am looking forward to going back to this sport in a competitive way with the support of Trevor.

How long have you been a Foster Carer with Integra?
1 year. We have Fostered 3 dogs in that time, and we currently have the gorgeous Tinker. A 14 month old Labrador.

Why did you become Foster Carer for our pups in training?
Both of our workplaces sponsor ISDA and as Phil has complex PTSD, we understand first hand the importance a dog has to a person’s wellbeing. It’s been really important for us to give back to our veterans and first responders.

What does being a Foster Carer entail?
Our role is to look after the dogs after hours, feeding, walking and playing with them. The best part has to be the cuddles they give. How do you fit it around your life? Because the dogs are so well trained, they just fit in with everything we do. The team at ISDA are amazing and help with pick up and drop off to our work. Fostering doesn’t feel like a burden unless you count a little smiling face watching your every move a burden.

Is there a memory with Tinker that has made you laugh that you can share?
Seeing his first swim in our pool. He loves the water and just wants to be in there. He loves running around after to dry off a bit and has the most happy look on his face.

What would you say the benefits of being a Foster Carer are?
The team provides all we need to look after Tinker including food, bowls, leads, crate and even toys for him. We love that we can ask Tiffany and Mel for homework to work on with Tinker. Because we have a Labrador ourselves, we’ve been able to work on training our boy too.

Do you have any advice for prospective Foster Carers?
Two words – Do it! If you have a week or 12 weeks that you can give some time to help ISDA you’ll never forget the experience. The work that goes into dogs like Tinker is remarkable and it’s shown in how they will interact with you as a Foster Carer. You will smile when you see them each day and they will change your world too.

When did you get Reggie?
We welcomed Reggie into our life in April 2019 when Ben delivered him. This photo captures one of our initial walks together.

What’s special about Reggie?
What makes Reggie truly special is her endearing sense of humour and unique quirks. Despite her absolute love for water and the willingness to swim tirelessly, she strongly dislikes having a bath or even a hose-off after a swim. Yet, what I admire most about her is her incredible adaptability. Reggie seamlessly transitions from a day of sailing to boarding a domestic flight without missing a beat. Having accompanied me on approximately 40 in-cabin flights, she effortlessly navigates airport security, walks down the ramp, settles into the cabin, and typically drifts off to sleep, showcasing her remarkable ability to adapt to different environments with ease.

What has been a highlight of your journey together?
Reggie goes nearly everywhere with me. When I look through the photos it is amazing the journeys and places we have been together.  When I first teamed with Reggie I was extremely anxious to be in public, particularly in crowded places.  With PTS I feel you can walk through life and no one pays any attention. Have a pet dog, much the same.  When you put an assistance dog jacket on a service dog, people stare and have this desire to talk to you. This has been one of my greatest challenges.  Reggie has helped me in this environment, and to have coping strategies and pre-planned responses to answers and challenges to our right of public access. The feeling of having her stand either beside me or between my legs, I know she is there. On the home front, I love how she greets us all in the morning like we are the best thing in the world, the thumping tail on the bed, the waggling butt and the “happy ears”.

What has the impact of Reggie been on family life?
Reggie is 100% a family member.  She supports our entire family. Something I was unaware of, was the significant impact that PTS has had on our entire family, my stress and anxiety becomes my family’s stress and anxiety. Reggie has a calming presence and point of focus for us all.  I will often find my wife or daughter seeking the comfort of a cuddle with Reggie on the floor.

What’s her favourite thing to do when not wearing her jacket?
She is a sun-dog. You will often find her cooking herself in the sun on our balcony.

What are you looking forward to doing together?
Living in a community that I don’t feel anxious about having our public right of access denied by yet another uneducated member of the public.

We know you love to sail and have created a wonderful organisation Salt Water Veterans – what is the purpose of this organisation?
My wife (Jen) and I have co-founded the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project, and it is now a registered Health Promotion Charity with the ACNC. It aims to pay forward the support my family and I have experienced and to alleviate the social isolation commonly faced by veterans (and their families) who have been wounded, injured, or are dealing with illness. We have been achieving this through the sport of sailing. The aim is rally fellow veterans to help each other to organise social sailing activities a bit like the old army adventurous training model – where the activity is the vehicle to the outcome. Sailing is our vehicle to social connection. Because of Reggie, we have specifically fostered an environment where veteran handler teams feel welcome with their assistance dogs, and we have had more than 10 assistance dog teams involved.

You are a passionate supporter of  Assistance Dogs -what are raising awareness for at the moment?
My ongoing support is to raise awareness to the right’s of public access for us as assistance dog handlers. I feel as handlers we have the opportunity to make our walks/interaction in the community better for the next handler team.  This has been a growth journey for me, as I learn to manage the frustration and anxieties of my mental health. Because of the sailing project, I met other veterans crippled by PTS, by sharing with them about the Department of Veteran Affairs PAD program and AD. Maybe they too might feel the benefit of being teamed with furry friend.

We know you love to sail and have created a wonderful organisation Salt Water Veterans – what is the purpose of this organisation?
My wife (Jen) and I have co-founded the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project, and it is now a registered Health Promotion Charity with the ACNC. It aims to pay forward the support my family and I have experienced and to alleviate the social isolation commonly faced by veterans (and their families) who have been wounded, injured, or are dealing with illness. We have been achieving this through the sport of sailing. The aim is rally fellow veterans to help each other to organise social sailing activities a bit like the old army adventurous training model – where the activity is the vehicle to the outcome.  Sailing is our vehicle to social connection. Because of Reggie, we have specifically fostered an environment where veteran handler teams feel welcome with their assistance dogs, and we have had more than 10 assistance dog teams involved.