Transforming Lives Through Connection With Happy Paws Happy Hearts

Empowering both people and animals, Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) has created an inclusive and welcoming space where growth, compassion, and connection seamlessly intertwine.

HPHH is a national not-for-profit that exists to create positive connections between isolated Australians and rescue animals in need. Their focus is to help participants on their journey of change from social isolation to inclusion and wellbeing, supporting people with disabilities, youth at risk, and people with a life of service.

The organisation and inspiring journeys of its participants thrives thanks to the passionate commitment of its team, including Senior Trainer Terri Leotta and Program Trainer Tia O'Mally, who each bring their distinct backgrounds and skills to this rewarding role.

Terri’s passion for animal care blossomed early, shaped by her upbringing on a farm and her lifelong love for anything from ducklings to dolphins. With a vast background in schools, adult education, and consultancy, she believes every interaction – no matter how small – holds the potential for growth and development.

Viewing her job as a privilege, she sees it as a chance to nurture both hearts and paws in equal measure. She strives to ensure that every session is productive, consistent and enjoyable for both hearts (people) and paws (animals).

“Every minute I’m alive is an opportunity to empower, enhance and enliven paws and hearts, and I wake up each day with that mission,” she says.

“It holds a little bit of magic each day, and that freedom is the greatest gift we could give.”

Tia O’Mally, on the other hand, complements Terri’s approach with her background in wildlife science and experience as a disability support worker. For almost two years, she has worked at HPHH, specialising in fostering strong animal connections with disability support, where she leads classes for people of all abilities and support needs, of all ages.

“I feel like this job was made for me,” Tia says.

“The participants get to learn how to care for and train animals, and in return, they find a connection, which is so fulfilling to see."

Despite being born deaf, Tia has gained confidence in group settings through her work, growing into a strong communicator and mentor. With a supportive and fun work environment, Tia loves the connections she’s built with her colleagues and participants.

Whether it’s leaving playful notes on their workplace communication board or seeing the joy animals bring to people’s lives, every day is rewarding for Terri and Tia at HPHH.

Holding space for big, courageous hearts is at the core of everything they do, empowering individuals as they form meaningful bonds with the animals in their care. Every session is a step toward a brighter tomorrow – whether it's a rescue animal learning to trust again or a participant gaining confidence through the unconditional love of a furry friend.

At Happy Paws Happy Hearts, the mission is to make sure both people and animals feel welcomed, empowered, and connected… because to them, every heart matters, and every paw is cherished.

Learn more about their in-shelter programs available in Mackay at hphhfoundation.org/shelter-program

hphhfoundation.org

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