Dear Residents, Families and Team Members,
We are delighted to share that we will soon be welcoming a new resident to Whiddon Kelso, who will be accompanied by their Guide Dog, Hannah. This marks a special milestone for our home, as Hannah will be the first Guide Dog to live within our community.
While pets and animals are a familiar and much-loved part of life at Whiddon through our Chief Happiness Officers and Creature Comforts programs, Guide Dog Hannah will play a unique and vital role in supporting her owner’s independence and wellbeing.
To ensure a smooth and respectful transition for everyone, we’ve put the following arrangements in place:
- Accommodation: Hannah will live with her owner in a room that has direct veranda access, providing easy access to outdoor areas.
- Working vs Social Time: When Hannah is wearing her harness, she is working and should not be patted, fed, or interacted with. When her harness is off, she is friendly, calm, and enjoys socialising.
- Orientation and Education: Guide Dogs Australia will assist in orienting Hannah to key areas of the home, such as the dining room and grassed areas. They will also provide education for residents and staff on how to interact with a Guide Dog.
- Care and Feeding: Hannah’s feeding and grooming will be managed by her owner and family, just as they have done at home.
- Toileting: A dedicated outdoor toileting area will be set up for Hannah. Our team will ensure this space is regularly cleaned and well maintained.
We are excited to welcome Hannah into our community and are committed to ensuring a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment for all.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
The Whiddon Team