Meet Elkana Champ

What's up dog?

I adopted Champ from a working sheep property when he was four years old. Shortly thereafter he was diagnosed with hip dysplasia, but that hasn’t stopped him from competing and earning titles in herding, scent work and tricks. Champ, now aged 12, is retired from competing in dog sports, which gives him more time to volunteer in our community.

Champ has appeared:
- on local television highlighting his work in assisted living facilities (https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=855866931419290)
-on national television as a Reading Dog (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6TsxDXIlfo)

He also works as therapy dog to help children suffering from dog phobia.

Recently Champ was chosen as one of the top ten finalists in “The Dog Down Under – Everyday Heroes” in recognition of his volunteer work, and will make an appearance on national television in September 2024.

One of his Reading Dogs students says of Champ, “When I am here, and when Champ is here, it relieves my stress and I just feel calm.”

Associate Professor Lara Farrell, the Principal Investigator for the “Pre-Schoolers Overcoming Phobias” project told me, “The work that you and Champ do in our community is incredible, and so greatly valued and appreciated by our team and all the families you have helped”, and a person associated with the project posted on Facebook “Thanks to you and Champ for being part of our child phobia treatment program! We couldn’t do it without you, Champ!”

Young children who were afraid to even look at Champ have become confident enough after a few therapy sessions to have Champ eating out their hands. This is no small feat, as the scariest thing about dogs for many small kids is a dog’s teeth. Champ adores people and animals of all kinds, and treats them with gentleness and respect, which is why he has been so successful as a therapy dog.

I have been diagnosed with cancer four times, and Champ has always been at my side to provide mental and emotional support. He has a wonderful, calm temperament and helps me socialise other dogs as part of my dog training business, Dog Works (https://www.facebook.com/cityworkingdogs).

Champ epitomises the true spirit of Australia by being selfless, courageous, loving and amazing in every way!

How is this award decided?