Lauren
Lauren is a warm and empathetic mentor with extensive experience working with diverse communities in social, recreational, leadership and inclusion programs. Lauren also has experience working alongside young people with additional needs to develop their confidence, independence and work skills.
She has recently completed a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Practice which complements her career in community development through which she has worked on wide ranging group programs all with the core goal of empowering individuals to connect with others and realise their passions.
Lauren firmly believes in the power of sharing stories to connect people. She applies a trauma-informed approach with deep listening and empathy for the experiences of those she works alongside.
In her downtime Lauren relishes any opportunity to spend time at the beach with Neo and furthering their bond through training in Rally Obedience. Lauren also loves spending time in nature whether that is tending to her vegetable garden or going on hikes around Melbourne.
Since witnessing the joyous effect Neo had on people in her local neighbourhood during the COVID lockdowns Lauren hoped that one day she could share his calm and sometimes goofy nature with others. Lauren is so excited that through Canine Comprehension the day has come to share Neo and his wisdom with young people across Melbourne.
Neo
Introducing Neo, the 5 year old Great Dane, and a true gentle giant. Neo has completed his therapy dog training with Lead the Way Institute after also dedicating his time to volunteering with Delta Therapy Dogs.
Neo has an undeniably captivating presence and is the perfect mentor in how to simply chill out. Despite Neo’s love of a good belly rub and ear scratch he is also very keen to please in the tricks department and will do almost anything for a game of fetch or a delicious treat.
Neo is always there with a gentle paw to let you know you aren’t alone and to remind you that he’d like an extra pat, please.
Aside from couch cuddle time with his pawrents and cat sister Leeloo, Neo’s true happy place is the beach where his zest for life really shines through as he bounds through the waves, pounces on his ball and enjoys a good roll in the sand. He really embodies enjoying the simple things in life.
Lauren and Neo have been ambassadors for the Great Dane breed at the Dog Lovers Show for the last several years where he shows patience and a warm, friendly face to everyone meeting a Great Dane for the first time. His expressions and antics certainly give all those who meet him a good giggle.
Neo’s motto is ‘size is no obstacle to having the time of your life’ as he squeezes his way into everyone’s heart.