Henry’s help a real drawcard for POOPs

Young Busselton animal lover Henry McGregor has raised more than $200 for community dog-walkers by selling home-made canine-themed cards.

The Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School student developed the project as part of his Round Square community service program.

Henry and his mother Amanda are volunteering for Pets of Older Persons, or POOPs, a program which helps keep elderly people and their pets together.

The group started with a handful of volunteers and no clients and has grown to eight clients and 25 volunteers.

The 10-year-old said his love of dogs came from the bond he has with the family’s 13-year-old Jack Russell, Reggie.

“I decided that dogs were very important to the community so I wanted to help any way I could,” he said.

POOPs founder Cathy Gibson said Henry was a highly valued new volunteer and recent feedback showed the POOPS program was beneficial for both dogs and owners.

“Our wonderful volunteers stop to talk to the owners and some spend hours chatting, washing the dogs,” she said.

“One of our members Anne said she was really enjoying the company and feeling part of the community again.”

To help POOPs or for assistance, visit poopswa.org.au or email busselton@poopswa.org.au.