Meet our sponsor puppy Scout!

ExxonMobil Australia has proudly sponsored a puppy with Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) once again this year.

Meet Scout, an Assistance Dog who has successfully completed her advanced training and has been placed as a highly skilled and fully qualified Autism Assistance Dog.

Introduced to the company by Renee Ellul, chair of employee resource group ABLE, ExxonMobil Australia’s association with ADA has truly made a difference to the lives of children living with PTSD and Autism.

ADA is a charity that provides accredited Assistance Dogs to children and adults living with disability. Their goal is to enhance the independence of people living with physical and mental disabilities (such as Autism and PTSD) through the provision of an Assistance Dog to support their mobility, sensory, access and social needs.

ExxonMobil Australia’s sponsorship will cover the costs associated with placing the dog in the community, which requires extensive follow up and support. With these funds, ADA will ensure that clients living with disability and their new Assistance Dog are well equipped and supported during this important transition phase.

Scout’s assistance to her almost 5-year old teammate, a little girl who has SETD5-related Intellectual Disability Syndrome, including a diagnosis of Autism, has proven to be remarkable in supporting her development.

Prior to Scout’s arrival, her teammate was content with being carried or pushed around in a pram, but now, thanks to Scout's dual leash system, she confidently walks by her side.

Scout has seamlessly become a part of the family and the progress her teammate has made since her arrival has enabled the family to venture out to the park and shops – outings which had previously been challenging.

“ABLE’s focus is for everyone to be seen for who they are and what they can achieve.  It brings us such joy to see the impact Scout has had in opening a world of new possibilities for her teammate and family – may the adventures continue!” said Renee.

Fran Diogo, ADA’s partnerships executive, said, “Thank you, ExxonMobil Australia, for your donation in support of Scout's client placement. The positive impact you are helping us deliver to clients, their families and the community is most appreciated.”

ADA is also looking for volunteers who are willing to open their hearts and homes to support assistance puppies coming into the program. If you would like to find out more, visit the ADA website.