First Therapy Dog Introduced at Australian Ski Resort

As Chilli grows in her role as a therapy dog, the program will use its inaugural year as a trial period. While it's still the beginning of the season for Mt. Buller, the response from other patrollers and guests on the mountain to Chilli's presence has already been overwhelmingly positive. 

"She loved the snow and spent the first few days sniffing everything and getting familiar with her new surroundings. It was wonderful seeing her take to the snow so happily and reveling in catching snowflakes," said Hoinville of Chilli's first few days with the unit. "We had a couple of runs on Bourke Street before the public got out skiing, with her learning to run on the snow between our skis and she even managed her first ride on the chairlift quite calmly.”

Patrol Manager, Ed Mahon is excited about adding Chilli and the program to the team. “As our Patrol celebrates a significant 75 year anniversary this year it’s fitting that we embrace new ways to support our guests, and our team. The work of the Patrol is sometimes stressful as we care for patients, comfort lost children and conduct search and rescue operations," said Mahon.

Chilli is the first canine member of Mt. Buller Ski Patrol. 

By the looks of it, Chilli is already learning a lot and doing a great job at being really, really cute, which is probably part of her job description.