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Become a Volunteer Puppy Raiser

Assistance dogs aren't just born, they're raised.

Volunteer puppy raisers provide specially-bred puppies a safe home, take them to obedience classes, serve up a healthy diet, provide socialization opportunities and give lots of love.

Each hour spent caring for a Canine Companions puppy is vital to its development as a future assistance dog. The puppy raising program provides a unique opportunity for volunteers to assist with our very important mission.

Please note: You must be at least 18 years old to be a volunteer puppy raiser. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian as a co-applicant on the puppy raiser application.

Raise a puppy, change a life.

As a volunteer puppy raiser, you must agree to the following:

  • Provide a safe environment for a puppy who will be the only dog under 1-year old in the house

  • Work closely with Canine Companions monitoring the puppy’s progress and submit monthly reports

  • Attend Canine Companions approved obedience classes

  • Teach the puppy manners and basic commands

  • Provide financially for the puppy’s food, medical and transportation expenses

  • Feed the puppy a diet recommended by Canine Companions

  • Provide a kennel or crate for sleeping indoors

  • Provide the puppy with age-appropriate socialization opportunities such as public outings and medical appointments

  • Keep the puppy on a leash at all times unless in a securely fenced area

  • Supervise the young puppy throughout the day

  • Agree to return the puppy upon request

Application to become a Puppy Raiser

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It All Starts With One Puppy

Read about local, 14-time puppy raiser Collen Roberts and her amazing journey with Canine Companions for Independence.

Middleburg Life Article can be found here.

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