At Aspen Medical, we know small actions can drive lasting impact, and sometimes that action has four legs and a wagging tail.
Meet Kelly-Ann King, one of our own and a proud Australian Defence Force veteran. She’s taken on a unique mission: fostering future service dogs through Integra Service Dogs Australia, a not-for-profit organisation helping veterans and first responders rebuild their lives through canine companionship.
“I first came across a social media post on a Defence group, looking for volunteer families to foster dogs in training,” Kelly-Ann recalls. “After reaching out and having a home assessment conducted, we were approved to become a foster family.”
Her motivation is deeply personal. Having worked alongside soldiers supported by service dogs, she’s seen the life-changing difference these animals make.
“As a Defence family, I’ve seen firsthand the impact support dogs can have on veterans,” she says. “By fostering dogs in training, my family is supporting the veteran community whilst also benefitting from their training.”
These dogs don’t just crash on the couch—they’re learning crucial skills to serve their future handlers. For a few months, they live as part of the household, learning to navigate life with teenagers, noisy vacuums and even a grumpy old dog. And yes, there are cuddles. Lots of them.
“The first time they give a ‘hug’ is probably my favourite moment!”
During the week, the dogs head to training with Life Unleashed, Integra’s training arm. On weekends, they’re back soaking up family life. Recently, Kelly-Ann’s dedication has taken this a step further - bringing her foster dog, Lizzy, into the Aspen Medical office in Canberra.
“I received approval to bring a foster dog to work to give them exposure to an office environment,” she says. “This is important as after graduation, the dogs may go to a handler who is working in a similar environment.”
Sean Ryan, Aspen Medical Executive Officer, couldn’t agree more:
“As a veteran-owned company, supporting a colleague who is a veteran who in turn is supporting other veterans is a no-brainer for us,” says Sean. “We engaged with the team in the office to ensure that nobody felt uncomfortable about the service dog being onsite and the feedback was unanimous – do it!”
Lizzy, the current office dog-in-training, has become something of a quiet star.
“Lizzy quietly settles under Kelly-Ann’s desk for a few hours each week, often unnoticed,” Sean adds. “She is having a positive, calming and homely effect on the team. It seems to be helping productivity!”
Aspen Medical has also added Integra to our workplace giving program, allowing staff to donate directly through their pay to support this vital cause.
At Aspen Medical, we're proud to support our people and the causes that matter to them. Whether it’s delivering healthcare solutions or making space for paws under desks, we know that real care starts from within.
Want to get involved or learn more?
Check out Life Unleashed and discover how you can help support veterans by fostering a service dog.
