The Paul and Trueman Story

Over the past year, Paul Wiltshire’s and his family have warmly welcomed a new family member into their hearts. Paul’s new assistance dog, Trueman.

“I like having him around a lot. A real lot,” says Paul. “My wife and kids love him. He’s just part of the family and I think he’s gotten me out of trouble at least once a day since he’s been with me.”

Trueman provides Paul with a new kind of independence, helping him with everyday tasks that people in a wheelchair may have difficulty achieving. He can open doors for Paul, pick up any objects dropped on the floor and even pay the cashier at the supermarket.

But that’s not all he does. Since Paul and Trueman’s relationship began they have been busy guys, going to the cinemas, shopping and even visited Santa with Paul’s children last Christmas. They also commute by train to the radio station where Paul works three days a week, a journey which Paul says he now enjoys.

“He’s [Trueman] a lot of fun to be around and he makes things like riding on the boring train a lot more enjoyable so it makes the trip a lot quicker. He helps me out at work too especially when I drop things. I now don’t have to wait for a human to pick it up ‘cause Trueman is there.”

But aside from the freedom and security Trueman provides Paul, he also makes most outings a social occasion, with many passers by stopping to speak to Paul about his gorgeous companion.

‘“He’s Beautiful’ that’s what everyone says. Heaps of people come up to us. I wish I had had him when I was a single man!” Paul said.

Trueman is part of a program initiated by Assistance Dogs Australia, a non profit organisation which trains Labradors and Golden Retrievers to enhance the quality of life for people with physical disabilities, giving them freedom and independence.