Carla knows better than most how life-changing a Mobility Dog can be – because she’s been part of their story from the very beginning.
After raising two Mobility Dog puppies, Avery and Armstrong, Carla joined the organisation as our Client Coordinator – a role that allows her to support clients and dogs through every step of their journey together.
“My job is to look after clients from the moment they first apply right through their entire journey with their Mobility Dog,” she explains. “It’s a really important supporting role – helping to guide and cheer them on as they build their partnership.”
Her time as a puppy raiser gave her invaluable insight into what clients experience. “Because I’ve been involved from the start, I know how the dogs are trained, what they’re capable of, and the kind of challenges that can come up,” she says. “That means I can give really practical advice and emotional support when clients need it most.”
Carla describes her work as both heartwarming and humbling. “The bond between a client and their dog is absolutely incredible. These dogs aren’t just
helpers – they’re companions, motivators, and sometimes even lifesavers. And the amazing thing is, it doesn’t feel like ‘work’ for them. They’re born helpers — they just love having a job and being by their person’s side.”
One of the most special parts of her job is seeing the dogs she once knew as playful puppies now out in the world, doing the work they were meant for. “It’s surreal sometimes,” she smiles. “To think that the same little dog who once chewed my shoelaces is now out there helping someone live more independently – that’s just the best feeling. You can actually see how proud they are to be helping.”
Each client’s journey is unique, but they all share a common thread – gratitude and pride. “Every story inspires me in a different way,” Carla says. “You see someone who once struggled to do everyday tasks now able to go out confidently with their dog beside them. That transformation is what keeps me going.”
Carla also has immense respect for the volunteers and donors who make this work possible. “Without our supporters, none of this could happen,” she says. “Every donation, every hour spent raising a puppy or helping at events – it all leads to real, lasting change in people’s lives.”
Her story is a wonderful reminder of how connected every part of the Mobility Dogs community truly is – from the puppy raisers, trainers, and volunteers, to the staff and, of course, the clients themselves. “It’s all part of one big circle of care,” she says. “And I’m so proud to be part of it.”
Every dog has a team behind them 🐾
What happens when raising puppies turns into a calling? Read how Carla’s journey with Mobility Dogs came full circle.