“My name is Rebecca Bui and I am the founder of Endless Wags Australia. I have a background in psychology and International, Federal and State public policy. Since I was a child, I have always believed that mental well-being and improving mental health was a significant factor in the resilience towards hardships in life. My own mission in life has always been to increase my own and others’ mental health awareness, well-being and in any way, try to help improve socioeconomic hardships in others. Whether that be through volunteering in other charities, through my work within psychology or in public policy.

 

I began this non-for-profit organisation through the inspiration of one man. Mitch, a homeless person and his best friend, Dodge the dog. Mitch was sitting with Dodge when I walked to him to chat. I asked if there was anything he needed. Mitch told me that he doesn’t need anything but would appreciate it if I could get some food for his dog, as he hadn’t eaten in a couple of days.

 

When I came back to Mitch and Dodge, we had a little chat and spoke about how much Dodge means to him. Mitch explained that he was socially isolated from any sort of community and that his dog was his “lifeline”, Dodge provided him with love and companionship that no-one else was willing to give at the time.

 

Mitch continued to explain to me that every morning when he wakes up and every night when he goes to sleep, Dodge is by his side. Dodge helps with his depression and loneliness.

 

Owning pets myself, I could really empathise with how significant of an impact an animal can really have on someone’s life. It had struck me when I discovered that there are numerous Government, private and non-for-profit organisations focusing on providing support services for the less fortunate, yet there’s minimal support and funding towards ‘man’s best friend’. If I can help pets’ longevity, sustenance and quality of life, I hope in a small way I am able to improve the mental well-being of the less fortunate.”

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