Perth Voice Interactive

FEW people can understand the value of a good working dog more than Ryan Wilson.

The former SAS dog handler was on patrol in Afghanistan in 2013 when his combat assault dog Fax sensed a nearby presence and leapt into action. Tragically Fax was killed in the encounter, but Mr Wilson has no doubts that if it hadn’t been for his canine hero, he would have worn the Taliban bullet instead.

He says military and police dogs like Fax are incredibly important and have saved many lives, but for many post-retirement can come with physical and mental challenges.

Retirement

“It’s very hard on their bodies and their mind,” Mr Wilson said.

“We try to retire them early so that can have a good retirement life, but often they will have problems with their spines or their hips, or with skin issues, which are directly from their service.”

But with no support from the federal government, the economic burden falls to their handlers and Mr Wilson says operations can be extremely expensive. If a veteran is struggling and can’t afford treatment for a mate who once saved their life, it can leave them feeling extremely anguished.

The problem prompted Mr Wiilson to start Working Paws Australia with former RAAF dog handler Jason Kelly.

The East Perth-based charity is now devoted to ensuring all working police and military dogs can live the happy and comfortable life they deserve.

To help publicise their work Working Paws is holding a kids art competition, calling on all budding Rembrandts to draw, sketch or do a cartoon showing why their pooch is their hero.

Entries need to be mailed to: PCYC, 450 Rokeby Road, Subiaco, 6008 by September 16 and all entries will be showcased at a special event at the PCYC on September 21.

For more information head to workingpawsaustralia.com

by STEVE GRANT