Volunteering to raise a guide dog puppy is an incredibly rewarding experience. Canine Companions relies on dedicated volunteers to provide specially-bred puppies with a loving home, obedience training, proper socialization, and a healthy start in life. If you’re interested in learning How To Become A Guide Dog Volunteer, this guide outlines the key steps and requirements involved.
The first step is to express your interest by completing the puppy raising application request. This will give Canine Companions some initial information about you and your suitability as a puppy raiser.
Each hour spent caring for a potential service dog is critical to their development. The puppy raising program is a unique way to contribute to Canine Companions’ mission of providing assistance dogs to those in need.
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must complete the application, and you can participate as a co-applicant.
Requirements for Volunteer Puppy Raisers
To be a successful volunteer puppy raiser, there are several key requirements you’ll need to meet:
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Safe Environment: You must provide a safe, nurturing home environment for the puppy. Typically, the puppy should be the only dog under 12 months old in the household to ensure proper focus and training.
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Collaboration: Work closely with Canine Companions staff to monitor the puppy’s progress and provide monthly reports. This ensures the puppy is developing appropriately and allows for early intervention if any issues arise.
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Training Attendance: Attend an average of two Canine Companions-approved classes per month. These classes provide valuable guidance on training techniques and socialization strategies.
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Basic Skills Training: Teach the puppy basic obedience skills and good manners. This forms the foundation for their future role as a guide dog.
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Financial Responsibility: You are generally responsible for the puppy’s food, routine veterinary expenses, and puppy class fees. Canine Companions may offer some financial assistance in certain situations, but it’s important to be prepared for these costs.
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Transportation: Transport the dog to the regional training center at the designated turn-in time. This is a crucial step in the puppy’s journey to becoming a certified guide dog.
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Diet: Feed the puppy a diet specifically recommended by Canine Companions. Proper nutrition is essential for healthy growth and development.
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Kennel/Crate: Acquire and utilize a kennel or crate for indoor sleeping. This provides the puppy with a safe and comfortable den.
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Socialization: Provide the puppy with age-appropriate socialization opportunities, including public outings and veterinary appointments. Exposing the puppy to various environments and situations is vital for their development.
Alt: A young Labrador puppy sits comfortably inside a wire crate, attentively looking out, showcasing a safe and secure environment essential for guide dog volunteer programs.
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Leash Protocol: Keep the puppy on a leash at all times when in public, unless supervised in a securely fenced area. This ensures the puppy’s safety and prevents them from developing undesirable behaviors.
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Supervision: Supervise the young puppy closely throughout the day. Puppies require constant attention and guidance to learn appropriate behaviors.
Alt: A volunteer puppy raiser lovingly feeds a golden retriever puppy from a bowl, illustrating the care and healthy diet requirement of the Canine Companions program.
Benefits of Volunteering
While the commitment is significant, volunteering as a guide dog puppy raiser offers numerous rewards. You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you played a crucial role in transforming a playful puppy into a life-changing service animal.
Thanks to Canine Companions’ partnership with Eukanuba, active volunteer puppy raisers now have access to discounts on Eukanuba diets for cats and dogs and VCA veterinary care for up to four pets in their home.
Ready to Apply?
If you’re passionate about helping others and have the time, resources, and dedication to raise a guide dog puppy, apply to raise a future service dog now. Becoming a guide dog volunteer is a fulfilling way to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
