Meet Yahtzee

Breed: Christchurch

Barking from: Chief Happiness Officer (Therapy Dog)

Job Title: Lab X Rotty

What's up dog?

Yahtzee is the warm welcome at the door to everyone who comes into the clinic. Who can resist a wagging tail and big brown eyes? She puts everyone at ease instantly, especially those with chronic pain and or anxiety - she has a special sense to be extra calm and cuddly with them.
In her day to day, she builds relationships with clients the same as we do, and each relationship is different. Some she snuggles with, some she plays with and some she simply just sits quietly with.
Often clients are in pain rehabbing from injuries, and her presence is very calming and offers a good dopamine and serotonin release which is vital to a healing process. Positive experiences have a huge effect of the outcome of rehab and Yahtzee takes her job very seriously to make everyone feel taken care of.
Yahtzee was a rehome at 9 months old, and she was introduced to the clinic day 3 of having her. She hasnt looked back since. Her own skill for reading people has developed exponentially over the last year and we are pretty sure people come here to see her more than us...

2025 NZ Top Dog with a Job Award

Judging and criteria

Purpose

This award recognises a working dog that goes above and beyond to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Whether supporting people or fellow animals, this dog’s daily efforts help improve wellbeing, provide support, or create meaningful change in their community.

Reach

Does your dog make a difference in the life of one individual, or do they support an entire group, workplace, or community? Tell us who they help and how far their support reaches.

Impact

What kind of impact does your dog have in their role? Share how they’ve enhanced wellbeing, supported mental health, or improved the lives of those around them