More dogs for epilepsy charity

More dogs for epilepsy charity

- International foundation recognizes NZ work
- More than $4500 donated
- More dogs to be trained

Auckland, 4 March, 2015 – The New Zealand Epilepsy Assist Dog Trust, based in Kumeu, can now train more dogs to assist people living with epilepsy, thanks to a donation from the global Bayer Cares Foundation.

More than $4500 has been granted by the Foundation towards the selection and purchase of three young dogs as well as the training from an animal behaviourist.

The dogs will be trained to help with daily tasks and to ensure the surroundings are safe and injuries are prevented when a person is having a seizure.

Bayer New Zealand veterinarian Mary Valintine applied for the donation from the Bayer Cares Foundation, Germany, which provides funding for community development projects in neighbourhood areas of Bayer sites.

About NZ$415,000 is distributed annually to 78 winning projects around the world.
Valintine says she is thrilled that the New Zealand Epilepsy Assist Dog Trust was able to receive the donation.

“It is so wonderful to be able to help three more people live a confident, fulfilled and happy life. The dogs are not only the tool for independence but they are also great companions.

“It makes me proud to be a part of a work place like Bayer that supports the people in our community to live happy, healthier lives,” Valintine adds.

According to the Epilepsy Assist Dog Trust, the unexpected loss of consciousness from epilepsy can lead to a loss of self-confidence and social isolation for those affected.
The assist dogs give those with epilepsy a tool to have confidence to work, travel on public transport and socialise with members of the public knowing that they will be kept safe if a seizure occurs.

Current clients of the charity have reported that seizures tend to last for a shorter length of time and are less severe because they know the dog is present and keeping them safe throughout.

For more information on the New Zealand Epilepsy Assist Dog Trust visit http://epilepsyfoundation.org.nz/assist-dog-trust/.

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About New Zealand Epilepsy Dog Assist Trust
New Zealand Epilepsy Assist Dogs Trust (NZEADT) formed in 2000 is a charitable organisation that trains and places dogs free of charge with people who have severe epilepsy. Well trained dogs have full public access (under the Dog Control Act 1996) and assist their recipients to lead a happier and safer life both at home and in public places. NZEADT is committed to providing an excellent service to our recipients by matching the dog to the person and providing professional one-to-one training. Recipients receive regular follow-ups for the life of their dog, once the dog/recipient team has graduated to ensure that their needs are being met and to continue assisting them with any further training requirements.
Bayer: Science For A Better Life
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the fields of health care, agriculture and high-tech polymer materials. As an innovation company, it sets trends in research-intensive areas. Bayer’s products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life. At the same time, the Group aims to create value through innovation, growth and high earning power. Bayer is committed to the principles of sustainable development and to its social and ethical responsibilities as a corporate citizen. In fiscal 2013, the Group employed 113,200 people and had sales of €40.2 billion. Capital expenditures amounted to €2.2 billion, R&D expenses to €3.2 billion. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.

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