PTSD Face-Off Campaign

Recent statistics show an alarming rate of first responder suicides, with one tragic incident occurring every four weeks. Unfortunately, the occurrence of these traumatic events rises even higher to one suicide every two weeks in veterans. PTSD Dogs Australia is determined to help reduce these staggering numbers. Through their tireless efforts to train and provide assistance dogs to those affected by PTSD, they offer a glimmer of hope in what can be an otherwise bleak situation.

It is important to note, however, that this service is not cheap. In fact, the initial training process alone requires over 300 hours of intensive work. Then, further training is necessary once the dog has been paired with its designated handler. All in all, each dog can cost over $40,000. Despite the high price tag, the positive impact on the lives of PTSD sufferers is immeasurable — with some even stating that these dogs have saved their lives.

Building Fund

of $3 million
donations

Lulu

Lulu joined the pack at HQ whilst we continued to assess her for suitability. Lulu obviously hadn’t been given any obedience training, so we started with building trust and understanding what treats and games she liked.   With obedience and confidence growing Foster mum Anita started taking Lulu out along Gympie Terrace in Noosa for daily walks, what was once frightening is now an enrichment.   Lulu enjoys accompanying Anita to cafes and even going to medical appointments, all along starting unsure then gaining confidence.   Today, Lulu is a joyous girl who brings smiles to all around her with her silly antics.  

of $40,000
donations

Make a Donation

of $40,000
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Sponsor Chris Beard

Personally, I have not been impacted by PTSD. What I can't look past though is the impact that PTSD Dogs Australia brings to both the Veterans or First Responders and the dogs they rescue from shelters is mind blowing. I simply can not get past 'Rescuing Dogs Who Rescue Veterans & First Responders. Two lives changed at the same time... we all need to help this fantastic process.

of $15,000
donations

Sponsor Vida Rodriguez

I work with PTSD Vets Great cause to raise funds

of $1,000
donation

Sponsor Jim Lagopoulos

Hello, I’m Jim. I’ve been immersed in the mental health field for over 25 years. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed remarkable advancements in neuroscience that have deepened our understanding of how the brain regulates mental health. While many of these advances involve complex changes in neurotransmitter systems and neuroplasticity, one of the most impactful discoveries has been the detrimental effect of stress on mental health and the positive difference that reducing stress through simple lifestyle changes can make. For those of us with pets—whether dogs or any other animals—we know the immense joy they bring. But their benefits extend beyond companionship. Research shows that pets can greatly improve our well-being by lowering stress levels, and they can be particularly transformative for people dealing with PTSD. I’ve seen firsthand the incredible work of PTSD Dogs Australia and am proud to support Ange, Roger, and their team. For World Mental Health Day 2024, I’m partnering with PTSD Dogs Australia to help raise funds for their important mission. If you’d like to see me sporting purple hair, please consider contributing to this valuable cause.

of $10,000
donations

Sponsor Tora Kemp

Hi I’m Tora, comms manager for Brain & Mind Hub and overly-enthusiastic border collie parent. Presented with the chance to get involved in a campaign that combines three of my passions – pups, supporting mental health, and purple hair – I couldn’t wait to get involved! As someone who has grappled with mental health challenges for most of my life, I can only admire the bravery of veterans and first responders whose experiences add another dimension to mental health difficulties. These are people who have put themselves at risk for others, and I am honoured to be able to do what I can to help them out. And of course, help more people experience the joy of finding a furry best friend!

of $2,000
donations

Sponsor Tara Mueller

Hi, I’m Tara. I’m a practicing psychologist at Brain & Mind Hub, and am passionate about supporting people to flourish and live their best lives.  The importance of emotional wellbeing is something we talk about every day at BaMH and is one the reasons I initially trained to be a Psychologist and why I still work in this field today. I love nothing more than seeing people integrate challenges into their lives and thrive! A few weeks ago, I met the lovely team at PTSD Dogs Australia. I was absolutely blown away by their dedication, vulnerability, and huge caring hearts. I immediately wanted to volunteer and get behind the incredibly important work that is done with these beautiful pups. The power these pups have to help a person living with PTSD to feel is simply heart warming and beautiful. And when we think about how many people’s lives have shrunk due to the huge pain that PTSD, anxiety and other mental health challenges can cause every day, it’s so important to do what we can to help improve that situation. Please support me in supporting this incredible organisation and those who live with PTSD. Lets go purple!

of $2,000
donations

Make a Donation

of $40,000
donations

Sponsor Bernie Clarke

My name is Bernie and I am a RAAF veteran, serving as an Intensive Care Nursing Officer for 11 years. I discharged from the RAAF with PTSD in January 2020 and have since been working in the Mental Health and Neuroscience sector. I have seen first-hand, the value of Assistance Dogs in the management of individuals with PTSD and am throwing my support behind PTSD Dogs Australia for their annual Face-off. Two years ago, I was completing a trauma-informed course with some colleagues along with Ange from PTSD Dogs Australia. During the course, I was triggered by some of the course content but all of the sudden, an Assistance Dog was at my side. The Assistance Dog didn't know me but could sense that something was up. There was this immediate sense of calm that grounded me and enabled me to continue with the course. I am now preparing to receive an Assistance Dog in the near future as I know what they can do in supporting an individual with PTSD. By signing up for the PTSD Dogs Australia Face-off Campaign for 2024, I am hoping that it will bring valuable funding to an incredible organisation. Not only will my daughters get a kick out of seeing their dad with a purple beard, but one of them will see their dad without a beard for the first time in her life if I reach my goal of $2,000.

of $2,000
donations

Sponsor Col-n-Mikey

We are 2 mates who have friends struggling day to day with the dreaded 'black dog' and PTSD. We know how debilitating it can be just coping with daily life, and the shocking suicide stats in our military and first responders battling PTSD. PTSD Dogs Australia is an incredible charity doing mighty work but need the community to rally around and support their mission. So we are doing our bit by growing our scruff!! Yep we are off and running with our face fluff and fingers crossed will have 2 great looking beards by the Shave2Save event (we will be posting ongoing pics of the hair production) By helping us out by sponsoring us - you get a 2 FOR 1 DEAL with your money! 2 beards for the price of 1! and your money goes to the vital work of rescuing and training PTSD Assistance Dogs. Col n Mikey

of $3,000
donations

Miss Em

Donated to us at 18 months old due to failing as a sheep trials dog, showing now interest in working with sheep (smart dog I reckon). Full of life and always happy for a game, she gives the best cuddles and loves pleasing the people she is around. The fact she is not interested in sheep is a good thing as we need our dogs to focus on humans not other animals.

of $40,000
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Face-Off Fundraiser Sign Up

Help us by getting your friends to sponsor you as you face off against PTSD. If you would like a campaign page set up complete the form below and we will take care of the rest. Haven’t got a beard? You can still support us by sponsoring me or your mates.

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