04/06/2026
Cath and Dr Steph were lucky enough this morning to attend the Paws and Purpose Morning Soirée with Assistance Dogs Australia. They were privileged to hear the story of Tim McCallum and the enormous impact that his Assistance Dogs Buster, Roxy and Casper have had on his life throughout the years.
Tim suffered a terrible accident at 18 years old. Rather than starting uni and an exciting new phase of his life, Tim found himself paralyzed from the shoulders down and completely dependent on his parents who left their jobs to care for him full time.
Thankfully, Tim was introduced to a fledgling assistance dogs charity where he met Buster, a specially trained assistance dog who became his best friend and gave him back his independence. Buster was like a dog “in the movies” who could complete many ordinary daily tasks like picking things up off the floor, opening doors, pressing elevator buttons, even answering the phone and talking on command. Buster’s assistance did wonders for Tim’s mental health and enabled him to re-enter society, move out of home and start his career.
Buster’s assistance also meant that Tim’s parents could go back to work and live their lives without having full time care of their son.
With the constant assistance and companionship of his dogs Tim has built a full and purposeful life, married, had a family and now does all he can to give back as an ambassador and Board member of Assistance Dogs Australia.
There simply could not be a better example of Pet Wellness , Human Wellness, Community Wellness and the way that pets make people better people, and better people make better communities. Tim’s story was a powerful and inspirational reminder of why these values are foundational to who we are and what we do at Pet Wellness Centre 🧡
Thank you for sharing your incredible story Tim!
If you want to help, Assistance Dogs Australia are looking for volunteers! Contact them on the QR code in the picture or come down to Paws at the Park in August and meet them in person at their stall.