Driven by his goal to one day speak confidently with anyone—whether a peer or potential employer—Rohan’s determination and courage were clear from day one.

When two chickens unexpectedly arrived at RSPCA NT, they quickly became the newest—and most unusual—members of the HPHH family. Affectionately titled Operation Clucker by participants, the project has opened up a unique learning opportunity.

One of our participants in Darwin recently had an exciting chance to put the skills and knowledge gained at Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) into practice, assisting with the grooming of a beautiful Cavoodle at Perfect Paws Dog Spa. 

Jaleesa has achieved two incredible milestones: gaining her driver’s licence and completing her Certificate II in Agriculture—all while still at school. 

Participants Ivy and Ruby were treated to a rare and very special surprise when Ten Lives volunteer, Cindy, arrived with a tiny guest: Mr Peabody, a three-week-old kid goat she has been caring for. 

During a recent Ten Lives session, two participants—one shy and reserved, the other lively and outgoing—found common ground through an unexpected moment of connection.

At our Ten Lives Cat Centre program in Hobart, a meaningful moment of connection unfolded when new participant Ruby, had her very first interaction with Kava, a 13-year-old tabby known affectionately by HPHH volunteers as a bit of a ’grumpy old girl’. 

Kathy has been attending Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) at Wacol for several years, starting in our Care program designed for participants with higher support needs. Recently, she courageously stepped up into our Train Program; but the new move wasn’t her only courageous act!

During a recent Tuesday morning Basics session at Wacol, Christopher and Alyce were unexpectedly presented with an exciting filming opportunity for a special 7 News Queensland segment for Happy Paws Happy Hearts. True to their enthusiastic nature, both participants quickly put their hands up to get involved. 

While Herb was still waiting in care, the Hunter Valley participants quickly became committed to helping Herb grow, something which made all the difference to Herb’s story.

Earlier this year, the Intro to Handle group in Darwin noticed a challenge in the shelter: dogs were chewing and destroying their bedding.  Together, the boys brainstormed why this might happen and what could be an appropriate solution.

At RSPCA Mackay, participants often work with a variety of small pets—including rats—as part of animal care and enrichment activities. While some participants are eager, others, like Neveah, can be fearful.

One of the Handle groups at our Wacol location recently prepared Shauno the greyhound for a well-deserved bath, which turned a simple shelter task into a beautiful moment of teamwork, respect and shared learning.

During a recent Tuesday morning Intro to Handle session, Hector the dog chose Joel (HPHH participant) as his safe space after having a big zoomies session and exerting his energy.

What started as two participants in a new environment has blossomed into a beautiful friendship.

Our Thursday Handle team in Toowoomba recently had the exciting opportunity to take on a new shelter task at RSPCA Toowoomba—conducting the afternoon feeds.

When Enzo’s new family was told about his involvement in HPHH programs and quickly learnt about some of the beautiful bonds he had formed with participants. On hearing this, the mother generously offered to take Enzo to say goodbye to the participants!

Each week, they share so many meaningful moments together. Whether it’s cheering each other on during training with high-fives, sharing laughs over a cheeky pup’s antics, or lifting each other up on the tougher days

Over time, Celeste and Ella discovered they had more in common than just a love for animals. They share the same favourite TV shows and a similar sense of humour

Jax, Dylan, and Beck proudly call themselves “The OGs”. What’s remained constant through change is their bond, built on mutual respect, quiet compromise and unwavering support.