Service dogs-in-training visit Banif Branches

As part of their training, dogs from the Service Dogs Malta Foundation accompanied their handler in visits to a number of Banif Bank’s branches. Dogs training to become therapy or service dogs accompany their handler everywhere including public places that are normally off limits to dogs.

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To date, the dogs stopped over at the Mosta, Paola, St Julian’s and Gozo Branches. Customers and staff took time to ask about the role of these skilled dogs and their training requirements. The dogs will continue visiting more Banif Branches as part of their training, and also with the aim to increase awareness about their important function for people with different needs.

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This initiative is part of a three-year collaboration between Banif and the Service Dogs Malta Foundation where Banif is sponsoring three dogs in their development from puppyhood to their full certification as therapy or service dogs. This sponsorship, which falls within Banif Banks’s corporate social responsibility programme, ties in well with the Bank’s philosophy of giving back to the local community.

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Stephanie Theuma from the Service Dogs Malta Foundation said: “The positive impact that service dogs have on people’s lives is awe-inspiring. These wonderful animals perform tasks for their handler, but they also offer love and companionship. Providing the proper training to these dogs is challenging, requiring high energy levels and a wealth of funds which is provided through sponsorships and donations. Having said that, training service dogs for such a noble purpose is definitely rewarding!”