WELCOME TO THE RIVERSIDE DOG THERAPY PROGRAM
ABOUT
Run at the Harris Family Farm in the Otway Ranges, our program provides an opportunity for individuals to experience the therapeutic benefits of working with dogs in a natural, supportive environment. This setting is integral to our holistic approach, promoting both mental well-being and a sense of connection to nature.
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Managed by Dr. Jon Carnegie through Carnegie Education, Riverside Dog Therapy is dedicated to delivering evidence-based support, guided by principles of empathy, respect, and individualized care. Dr. Jon Carnegie is a renowned educator with a Bachelor Education, Doctorate of Education, Diploma of Youth Work and a Cert IV Training and Assessment.
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Riverside Dog Therapy Program operates as a sole trader providing dog therapy services in compliance with the legal and regulatory requirements of the State of Victoria. We are committed to upholding all relevant legislation to ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of our clients.
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Our compliance includes:
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Privacy Legislation: We follow the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic), which governs the handling of personal information, ensuring confidentiality and respect for individual privacy.
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Anti-Discrimination Legislation: We adhere to the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic) and the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth), promoting inclusivity and protecting individuals from discrimination based on disability, gender, race, and other attributes.
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Workplace Health and Safety Legislation: We follow the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic), ensuring a safe environment for both clients and animals involved in the therapy program.
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Animal Welfare Legislation: We adhere to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (Vic), ensuring the welfare and humane treatment of the animals involved in the therapy program.
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Child Safety Legislation: We are committed to the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 (Vic) and the Child Safe Standards, ensuring that children receiving therapy services are protected from harm and abuse.
By adhering to these legislative frameworks, Riverside Dog Therapy Program ensures a safe, inclusive, and ethical environment for all clients.
PHILOSOPHY
At Riverside Dog Therapy, we believe in the transformative power of connection between people and dogs. Our program offers a unique and compassionate approach to mental health recovery, particularly for young people and their families. By fostering meaningful bonds between participants and therapy dogs, we aim to create an environment that encourages healing, trust, and emotional growth.
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Our work is grounded in the belief that healing is not just a process but a journey, one that is enriched through genuine companionship and the deep, unconditional support of animals. Through our program, we strive to create a positive, lasting impact on the lives of young people, fostering resilience, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of self-worth, while empowering families to move forward in their mental health recovery.
OUR SUPPORTERS
The Riverside Dog Therapy program is run with the generous support of:
The Harris Family Farm
The Harris Foundation
Riverside Student Support Centre