Batemans Bay Lion Jacki Harding said the club had in the past provided a service dog for Rosanna McClifty, of Batehaven.

Luna came to live with Ms McClifty under the Australian Lions Hearing Dogs program, but died tragically a few months ago.

“Luna had a great impact on Rosanna’s life,” Mrs Harding said.

“Rosanna was devastated when Luna passed away.”

At a cost of $2000, the Lions must sell a lot of sausages to fund a hearing dog, but considered it a priority.

“Rosanna’s audiologist had suggested she receive a hearing dog, as her husband’s work took him away quite a bit and it was security for her while he was away,” Mrs Harding said.

Mrs Harding urged retailers and cafes to welcome Ms McClifty’s new dog, Doug, when he arrives in June.

“Any service dog has the same right as a guide dog to enter a food store,” she said.

Accredited service dogs can be identified by a bright orange collar and lead.

Their owners also carry ID card.

According to the program, nearly all hearing dogs are found as youngsters at shelters for homeless dogs and are given a second chance at a happy home.

Doug will be the 555^th dog to be delivered since the program began in Australia in 1981.

Mrs Harding said hearing-impaired people must have a referral from their audiologist to apply for a dog.

Mrs Harding said the club funded its charity work with markets and sausage sizzles and would love more members.

Phone her on 0410 447 233. 

Lions International is 100 years old on June 7 and has been running for about 47 years in Batemans Bay.

Mrs Harding was recently named a NSW Government Local Woman of the Year for the shire and has been a Lion for about 17 years.

Page 5: push for Batemans Bay dog park continues.