Seth’s Path to Confidence and Connection at HPHH Darwin

Every Thursday morning, Seth prepares for a day he genuinely looks forward to—his time at Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) Darwin. For Seth, these sessions aren't just about being around animals—they’re about growing into the confident, capable young man he’s becoming.

After finishing school, Seth struggled with a sense of isolation. A social person by nature, he found the days quiet and lacking direction. That all changed when he joined HPHH.

Darwin Program Trainer, Margaret comments witnessing Seth’s growth over time.

“Seth’s confidence is growing, especially when trying new things or in unfamiliar social settings,” says, Margaret. “His ability to adapt—particularly in challenging situations—has really improved.”

“I feel more confident preparing myself for each day,” Seth says. “It’s given me a purpose.”

Through his time in the Intro to Handle program, Seth has developed the ability to understand the behaviour of animals more which has positively impacted his involvement in the program.

“I’ve learned how to read the body language of animals properly in different situations,” he explains. “Before HPHH, I wasn’t comfortable interacting with different dog breeds’.”

“Seth has grown in confidence around the animals—like now feeling comfortable working with larger dogs, which he used to decline”, Margaret shares. “His positive interactions with the animals provide him with a sense of purpose, achievement and satisfaction”.

Seth worked closely with a dog named Busta, helping with his care and enrichment while in the shelter at RSPCA Darwin. When Busta was adopted, it was bittersweet for Seth—but mostly, he felt pride. “I was proud to have helped him get ready for his new home and family,” he shares.

Not only has Seth improved in understanding the behaviour and emotions of animals, but he has improved in his understanding of his own and other people around him including his family.

His mum, Sandra, has seen real change. “Seth has always been quite independent,” she says. “But this program has brought out a new level of confidence in him. Not only is he better with our pets at home, but he manages his time in the mornings to get to HPHH without being too late—with only some reminders now and then,” she adds.

“I know the skills he’s learning—empathy, responsibility, emotional awareness—will take time to settle in, but I can already see the progress. HPHH has given him a sense of purpose and something he looks forward to each week.”

Margaret agrees, noting, “His ability to reflect on his feelings and adjust his behaviour has grown. He recognises how his actions impact others, especially when working with animals. He’s kind and generous, open to feedback, and comfortable speaking up in group discussions.”

The Intro to Handle programs at Happy Paws Happy Hearts offer hands-on learning in a supportive, real-world environment—empowering participants like Seth to develop confidence, independence, and a sense of responsibility. While working closely with animals, participants build practical skills in animal care and training, all while learning to work effectively in small teams.

From creating enrichment activities that make a shelter animal’s day more stimulating, to helping train adoptable behaviours that increase their chances of finding a forever home, Seth has discovered the value of structure, teamwork, and purposeful routine.

“At the end of most sessions, Seth reflects that his positive contribution to the world that day was his interaction with the animals,” Margaret adds. “He takes pride in that—and it shows.”

Perhaps most importantly, Seth has gone from feeling isolated to finding genuine connection and a sense of belonging. He’s not only grown more confident in social settings but built friendships too.

“It’s helped my relationships with family and friends,” Seth shares. “And I’ve even made new friends here too.”

Margaret recalls a quiet but powerful milestone: “One day, Seth walked to the bus stop with another participant, both happily chatting. This was the first time after many weeks of walking apart in silence. It was a small moment that showed just how far he’s come.”

When asked what he’d say to someone who’s unsure about giving the program a go, Seth’s advice is simple but powerful:
“You never know unless you try.”

Thank you to Seth for his courageous heart in sharing his story with us. It’s a privilege to walk alongside him as he continues to grow in confidence and independence. Seth is a key member of our Thursday Intro to Handle program and has played a big role in enhancing the lives of the shelter animals he’s worked with at RSPCA’s Darwin Regional Branch.