When Katrina was looking for a new day program, she made a visit to Sylvanvale’s Garden House in Sutherland. Katrina was immediately drawn to the friendliness of the staff, the other people that attend the centre and the chance to spend time outdoors. By her second visit she had remembered everyone’s names.
“I made friends from the day I walked in. The first day I didn’t know anyone. Now I know everyone!” says Katrina.
Katrina’s decision to attend Garden House was also due to the animals that reside there. Katrina loves animals. Growing up, her family had three dogs. When one of the dogs sadly passed away, Katrina was devastated. Earlier this year, her mum surprised her with a Jack Russel puppy named Bonnie. Katrina fell in love instantly and dedicated her time to training the new puppy including how to walk on lead.
Katrina has committed that same love of animals to her time at Garden House in an important role.
“I am the Pet Care Assistant,” says Katrina. “I feed the animals and take them out and play with them and clean up after them. I love getting to hang around with the animals. It’s my favourite thing to do.”
The animals at Garden House have all been rescued, and include four chickens, two guinea pigs, and a rabbit named Mocha. In the morning Katrina unlocks the pen and lets the animals out for the day. She tops up their water and checks their food. Katrina makes different kinds of food for the animals using organic matter from the garden. She also keeps a careful watch over them throughout the day to ensure they don’t fall victim to predators.
The two resident guinea pigs at Garden House, Bob and Bolt, are given extra special care and attention on the days when Katrina attends.
“I would love to learn more about guinea pigs. I believe that every animal has their own personality.”
“It’s such a help having Katrina here,” says Garden House Manager Jo. “We know that the animals will get attention – their water will be replenished, their food topped up – and they’ll be given love.”
Jo has seen Katrina’s confidence grow during her time at Garden House.
“Having a role that she is solely responsible for when she is here is really good for Katrina. The animals know her and respond to her. She leaves with a sense of purpose.”
Katrina is hoping that her passion for animals and the skills she is learning at Garden House may lead to a future in animal care. She is using the books available at Garden House to read and learn more about animals and has been looking into TAFE courses.
Jo is confident that Katrina can follow her aspirations and complete a Certificate II in Animal Care. “Her reading and writing are excellent, and she has shown that she can focus on the task at hand while at Garden House. With support I am sure she can complete the course and gain future employment in animal care industry. She has a lot to offer!”
