Happy Paws Happy Hearts builds defence family bonds

Australian Army veteran Eloise served with the Intelligence Corps from 2017 until 2021, when she transitioned to the Reserves. Now, Eloise takes part in the Happy Paws Happy Hearts' Defence Families Program, training rescue animals so they can be adopted into loving families.

But it’s not all about connecting with the animals - the group also fosters connections with other participants. Families are encouraged to join in too, creating a real sense of community that continues beyond the program.

The Happy Paws Happy Hearts’ Defence Families Program is a specially designed 10-week program. It's funded by RSL Queensland, so your support as a Dream Home Art Union VIP is invaluable, thank you.

Australian Army veteran, current reservist and animal lover Eloise read about the Happy Paws Happy Hearts’ Defence Families Program in an email from her local Sub Branch of RSL Queensland, who says, “I thought straight away, that’s for me!”

The program, run in partnership with RSPCA Queensland, trains rescue animals so they can be adopted into forever homes as loving pets.

Over the course of ten weeks, all kinds of connections are formed – between the humans and animals as well as between people.

Designed not only for veterans and current Defence service members, but their families as well it’s fully funded by RSL Queensland. There’s no cost to participants who invariably find it deeply rewarding.

“Animals can provide that connection, that social support that humans sometimes can’t,” says Eloise. “Especially if you’re feeling isolated yourself.”

The benefits extend beyond the program, with many participants staying in touch with the people they met and even, like Eloise, becoming a regular volunteer with RSPCA Queensland.

Happy Paws Happy Hearts’ Defence Families Program is one of many programs funded by RSL Queensland and supported by Dream Home Art Union, and particularly VIP Club members.