The Military Working Dog Section of Air Force's 26 Squadron has held a fundraising event for Working Paws Australia, raising awareness for retired working dogs and generating funds for the worthy cause. 

Many retired working dogs require medical intervention due to injuries sustained during their service with the Australian Defence Force. Working Paws Australia plays a vital role in alleviating the financial burden on handlers who care for these dogs after their careers.

Held at RAAF Base Williamtown, the day included base-wide visits to squadrons and units for meet and greets with retired military working dogs Genie, Ghann and Ryder. Between these visits, the base was treated to a military working dog capability display, showcasing the skills and dedication that current in-service dogs bring to protecting Defence assets across Australia.

Following the display, there was a barbeque, raffle and merchandise sale with more than $4000 dollars collected for Working Paws Australia.

Corporal Brooke Hitchenson, a military working dog handler with 26 Squadron, proudly organised the event with support from her chain of command and colleagues.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to honour our retired dogs, educate the community and support a cause that ensures these loyal companions continue to receive the care they deserve,” she said.

“The highlight of the day was engaging with a wide range of personnel across RAAF Base Williamtown and seeing the genuine excitement people had when meeting our retired dogs. Witnessing the smiles and heartfelt reactions was truly special.”

Working Paws Australia is a charity founded by ex-military working dog handlers Ryan Wilson and Jase Kelly. They provide retired military working dogs with the care and resources they need as they transition into retirement. 

With more than 40 registered dogs across Australia in their care, the charity supports medical needs (including vet bills, medications and rehabilitation), ensures a good quality of life (food, shelter and comfort), and helps find loving forever homes when needed.

'These dogs served alongside our Defence personnel and deserve recognition and care in their golden years.' 

Corporal Hitchenson highlighted how incredibly important it is that ex-military working dogs and their handlers are supported in their retirement.

“It’s extremely important – these loyal and fearless dogs often retire with significant medical or behavioural challenges due to injuries or trauma sustained during service,” she said.

“Supporting organisations like Working Paws Australia ensures our four-legged veterans are not forgotten. These dogs served alongside our Defence personnel and deserve recognition and care in their golden years. Working Paws not only provides that support, but also advocates for their wellbeing and raises awareness about their needs.”

For Corporal Hitchenson and her colleagues, the opportunity to support Working Paws Australia was one they happily took on, having personal and professional connections to the organisation’s cause. With two retired dogs at home, Corporal Hitchenson hasn’t had to call on the organisation for support yet, but knows they are there if needed.

“My connection to Working Paws Australia stems from the fact that the charity was created by two ex-serving dog handlers, which means we share a common passion and drive to support our dogs,” Corporal Hitchenson said.

“Personally, I have both of my retired dogs registered with Working Paws Australia, along with many of my fellow handlers. I, thankfully, have not yet had to utilise their services; however, many of my fellow handlers have.”

The day was successful, with thousands of dollars raised for Working Paws Australia. In addition to funds raised, base personnel were able to enjoy the experience of interacting with the dogs and their handlers.

“The overwhelming support from our neighbouring squadrons made the day extremely special and memorable,” Corporal Hitchenson said.