What is the Paws Up Program?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Backtrack youth works is an organization breaking ground by engaging young people from our community, giving them new skills, confidence and support. It is the brainchild of Bernie Shakeshaft (the founder of Backtrack). He had a bunch of energetic pups at home. He also works with some young people who were potentially at risk of not completing school. They weren’t really engaged in mainstream classes and Bernie could see value in giving young people a go at something a little different. It was then that ‘Paws Up’ was born. In a rural environment training and handling working dogs is an asset. Having to properly care for a canine requires responsibility. The types of commitment and learning outcomes the ‘Paws Up’ program offers, helps to make the participants ‘work ready’.

Now the same youths are doing competition work with their dogs and achieving some remarkable results. They are also a popular attraction when they present their demonstration shows. The above being held mostly around weekend’s means there is less time for boredom and teamwork requires all individuals to make an effort.  Attendance at Backtrack counts towards part of their school program.

Maturity is gained when young people exercise meaningful knowledge and skills, have responsibility and learn independence. ‘Paws Up’ is just one way that Backtrack is helping young people to grow.  Hopefully the program can attract more funding to allow it to expand. We encourage you to find out more with the following links…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kH1DFmsiMgo&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtlCUJhNC78&feature=youtu.be

Leah & Angela O’Meara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)