LIAM Curtis has found joy in walking dogs for Tooleybuc residents living with disabilities and the elderly.
“It makes me feel good having that role in the community because I’m helping people and families out,” he said.
The 20-year-old started walking dogs in February through Echuca Discoveries, and it has since taken off, seeing him walk five to six dogs, two days a week.
“People have said I’m doing a brilliant job and they love the idea,” Liam said.
“It’s really good seeing their faces when I’m helping them out, because they know their dogs are being looked after.”
For Liam, it’s a brilliant business idea because he not only gets to provide a service to the community while spending time with dogs, which he loves.
Having grown up in the region with access to family farms and their working dogs, Liam spent a lot of time with working kelpies and other dog breeds.
“It’s a big responsibility, but you have that strong bond with the dog, and you know when you see that excitement in that dog’s face, it loves you, it loves everyone,” he said.
“The excitement in that dog’s face is pretty good.”
Liam brought the idea to Echuca Discoveries, and they agreed there was a need in the disability and elderly communities.
“We help people who can’t walk their dogs and people with disabilities who can’t get out of bed, stuff like that,” he said.
Echuca Discoveries Swan Hill manager Jo O’Bree has seen Liam grow in confidence and independence through dog walking.
“He’s kicking goals and doing a fantastic job, taking over talking with clients and arranging times and all of that,” she said.
Liam is able to combine his dog walking with his participation in Echuca Discoveries, and includes other participants in the business when he needs a hand.
“He’s a good role model and mentor to the other participants, and it’s a pleasure and privilege to support him,” Ms O’Bree said.
