Meet Greta

Top Dog with a Job Finalist

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This year, NZTOPDOG is organising a fundraiser.


This year, we wanted to give the aroha back to our communities. Every year, our campaign is supported and celebrated by a variety of incredible charities across Aotearoa, all of whom mahi tirelessly to make a positive impact for dogs in their respected communities.


All money (100%) will go to NZ mental health and dog-related charities.


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Meet Greta

Breed: Hamilton

Barking from: Ex Guide Dog Now Reading Buddy Dog

Job Title: Labrador Retriever

What's up dog?

At 9 weeks old Greta began her guide dog training. She qualified and worked for a blind person. Greta's help enabled her owner to run a business and carry on with a rewarding life for which she was very grateful.When Greta retired from this demanding role we were fortunate enough to be able to adopt her. We were very keen to make use of her wonderful skills and training and so put her forward for selection as a Reading Buddy Dog. This volunteer scheme is run by Hamilton City Council Library Service and involved an hour long, videod series of tests and challenges which were then analysed and assessed by an animal psychologist. We were delighted when Greta was accepted for this role and since then she has worked consistently with large numbers of children in schools and libraries throughout the city. Her presence and personality have been especially helpful for autistic children and for building confidence around dogs. Seeing Greta playing with her canine colleagues at the start of each session is a real delight for everyone. Research has proved that Reading Buddy programmes help to remove some of the barriers to literacy which can be experienced. Greta provides a soothing reading session with a non judgmental canine friend. Her arrival at any venue is always greeted with joyous enthusiasm by staff and students alike. She has a huge impact.

2024 NZ Top Dog with a Job Award

Judging and criteria

This award will be judged on:


Purpose

This award celebrates a top dog that makes a positive difference in our society for the work they do to improve human (or animal!) lives on a day-to-day basis. 

 

Reach

Is the dog dedicated to assisting one human, or an entire team or office? 

 

Impact

How big an impact does this dog have in their workplace? Explain how much your canine friend has impacted the office culture, or improved mental health at work or of those around them. Give examples of how they have made an impact. 

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