Sarah, our CEO

Meet Sarah Macdonald, the visionary behind Canine Comprehension. With a BA in Arts: History/Politics from the prestigious University of Notre Dame and a Master of Teaching (Secondary) from ACU, she possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

Sarah's entrepreneurial journey has been nothing short of remarkable. As the driving force behind Canine Comprehension, she brings therapy dogs to schools, touching the lives of countless children. Through these furry companions, she enables young minds to gain a broader perspective on mental health, empowering them to embrace readiness for learning.

Operating not only in Melbourne but also extending her services to mentoring and supporting residential care for children facing social anxiety, Sarah's impact is far-reaching.

A seasoned educator, Sarah's early career as a teacher ignited her passion for mental health's role in learning. Combining her compassion with a profound understanding of animal assistance therapy, she spent extensive time as a professional dog trainer, discovering the profound benefits of dog-assisted therapy for at-risk youth.

Sarah's achievements have been duly recognized and celebrated. She was honored as the Commonwealth Bank Australian of the Day and earned a Silver Stevie® Award in the Female Entrepreneur of the Year category for Asia, Australia, or New Zealand in 2019. Last year, Canine Comprehension earned a nomination in the Animal Assisted Learning (AAL) Category at the Animal Assisted Therapies Ltd Conference Awards and was a finalist at the Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Adding to her accolades, in 2021, Canine Comprehension triumphed with the Australian Achievers Award, exemplifying excellence in customer relations. As a dynamic leader, Sarah's dedication and accomplishments continue to inspire and shape a brighter future for those she serves.

River

Meet our incredible therapy dogs, River and Ness - the dynamic duo of fun and well-trained charm!

River, a Kelpie cross, has an inspiring tale of resilience. Rescued at a tender age of six weeks by a small volunteer group, she overcame the odds despite a challenging start. As a malnourished pup with a weak immune system, River faced tough times, but with the love and care of Sarah and her family, she blossomed into the vibrant and happy dog she is today. Whether sprinting alongside her doggy pals or snuggling up to anyone seeking affection, River knows how to spread joy. With a heart of gold, she shares a special bond with our Operations Manager, Louise McKenzie.

Ness

Ness, the full-blooded Kelpie, has her own captivating story of rescue. Saved from a farm in NSW as a "failed" sheepdog, this petite powerhouse is often mistaken for a puppy due to her small size. With boundless energy, Ness loves nothing more than sprinting around at top speed. However, her true magic lies in her remarkable ability to stay calm and steady around children. Although it took some effort to master this skill, Ness now effortlessly embraces her role as a gentle and loving companion. Everyone who meets Ness is enamored by her endearing and friendly nature.

River and Ness are not just therapy dogs; they are ambassadors of joy and warmth. Their playful spirits and well-honed training make them a joy to be around, bringing smiles to all they encounter. With River and Ness by your side, you can be sure that therapeutic experiences will be filled with fun, comfort, and lasting memories.