Alexis and Opal’s story

“Opal means hope and life to me!” beams Alexis. Opal is a Service Dog, provided for Alexis free of charge by Assistance Dogs Australia.

This very special dog has an important role to play in the life of wheelchair user Alexis Smith of Mount Waverley, VIC. Opal was matched with Alexis in November by ADA, and they have been inseparable ever since. Alexis was born with brittle bone disease, a bone disorder for which there is no cure.

Opal assists Alexis by opening and closing doors, retrieving dropped items, pressing the button at pedestrian crossings and even getting the phone. Alexis is currently training Opal to pull on the bed covers at night and has plans to teach her much more, “We are still a work in progress!”

In addition to helping Alexis physically, Opal also provides a sense of independence, security and companionship. ‘’There is now someone to watch over me and I feel much safer home alone with her.’’