It’s been a full year since Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania welcomed Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) to their Hobart shelter back in February 2025. Over the past year, HPHH and Dogs’ Homes has welcomed over 20 participants into the purpose-led programs, each entering with their own goals, strengths, abilities and support needs.

Ella White is one of these participants, and when she first started sessions at HPHH, life felt challenging:

“I was feeling really down in my mental health and had few true friends”. But stepping through the doors of Dogs’ Homes became a turning point.

“I found my true self. I found what I was made for, to help dogs! And while doing so, make friends who share the same interests as me.”

Her love for animals inspired her to join and from day one, HPHH has become more than just a program for Ella, it’s been a place to grow, connect, and find confidence.

She shares:

“Being at HPHH has taught me that I can trust others and not to be shy. It’s been good to make new friends and build connections with people who have the same interests.”

Every dog she’s worked with and helped find a forever home has been a source of pride:

“It makes me feel like I’ve achieved something.”

Reaching a full year of attendance is more than just a milestone—it’s a testament to her commitment, growth, and resilience:

“It feels like I have a special purpose, and I feel that this has given me more chances for job opportunities.”

HPHH Hobart Program Trainer, Wendy, shared the privilege she has felt watching Ella grow over the past year:

“Ella has made strides towards positive changes in her life. She communicates openly and is confident expressing herself around others. She has developed such positive friendships with the other participants, all connecting through their shared love and genuine care for the animals they get to work with each week.”

Looking ahead, Ella is excited for the future:

“One of my goals is to know more about dogs and dive deeper into how to train them. I hope it leads to working with dogs and animals in the future.”

Wendy shares her delight in getting to be a part of something so purposeful:

“Seeing the growth Ella as one of our original participants has shown me as a trainer what is possible in this amazing program. I pinch myself every day that I get to be a part of something so positive and affirming, not just for the participants but the beautiful dogs they work with, the Dogs’ Homes staff and all the volunteers who contribute to this community.”

From finding friendship to discovering purpose, her journey reminds us why HPHH exists—to create connections, build confidence, and open doors for both people and paws. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and joy!