When soldiers put their lives on the front line, long-term health challenges are almost inevitable, but assistance dogs are improving both the physical and mental wellbeing of those in need.
Birchip resident Mr Jonathan (Jonny) Kemp has recently completed training with Integra Service Dogs Australia, becoming the custodian of an Integra-owned assistance dog named Capri.
Overcoming trauma
Jonny’s journey began with rigorous training as an Australian soldier, a demanding yet rewarding experience that took him to the Kapooka Military Area in New South Wales.
Tragically, just as he completed his training and was leaving Kapooka, Jonny was struck by a stolen car driven by two fifteen-year-old boys in a hit-and-run incident. The collision left Jonny with shattered legs, a brain injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
At just 19 years old, Jonny was confined to a wheelchair for 18 months and was unable to actively serve, despite having signed up for a six-year term as a qualified Private Soldier.
Since then, Jonny has endured over 40 admissions to the Department of Veterans’ repatriation hospital at Austin Health for PTSD, depression, anxiety, service-related injuries, and suicide attempts.
Integra
Austin Health introduced Jonny to the Psychiatric Assistance Program, which provided critical support to help manage his health challenges.
“The program is awesome, it is stopping veterans from suicide,” Jonny said.
Through the program, Jonny was connected with Integra Service Dogs Australia, which provides highly trained assistance dogs to veterans and first responders.
Capri, a labrador-retriever, underwent 18 months of specialised training at a cost of over $70,000 to prepare him for his vital role.
“In just two weeks, Capri has given me companionship, love, and support,” Jonny said.
“She is always watching me and by my side, responding to every situation.”
Integra covers veterinary costs, insurance, and other associated expenses, while also helping clients learn how to manage these costs as they take on the responsibility of their assistance dogs.
Training
Jonny undertook an intensive four-day training course with Capri at the beginning of their journey together.
Under the professional support of Integra, Jonny successfully completed his Queensland Guide Hearing and Assistance Dog (GHAD) Public Access Test (PAT) assessment.
Jonny was issued with a GHAD Primary Handler Identity Card, allowing him and his labrador-retriever to work on-lead in busy complex public settings, offices, hospitals, public transport and in official, retail and commercial settings.
Capri is trained to be calm and focused in public, dedicated to supporting Jonny without being disruptive.
At Birchip
Birchip residents will soon become accustomed to seeing Jonny and Capri out and about. Whether visiting public spaces or local businesses, the pair, with Capri proudly wearing her Integra jacket, are a testament to the life-changing impact of assistance dogs.
Integra Service Dogs Australia is a not-for-profit organisation providing invaluable support to first responders and Australian Defence Force personnel. Thanks to their efforts and the loyalty of dogs like Capri, veterans like Jonny are finding renewed hope and strength to face life’s challenges.
This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 24 December 2024.