Service Dog Puppy Raisers and Puppy Pals needed.

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Volunteer Puppy Raiser

The role of volunteer puppy raiser lasts approximately two years. The puppy raiser is responsible for raising the service dog in training from age 8 weeks until approximately 2-2 ½ years in age. DogsInVests supports the dog financially during the training stage and is responsible for all food, treats, veterinary care, medications, and supplies. The puppy raiser must be committed to house training, obedience training, on-site and remote training classes, and transport and attendance to all required veterinary appointments.

This is not an easy task and should not be taken lightly when making the commitment. The dog is with you almost constantly and once they are ready to graduate our program and become a full-time service dog the puppy raisers give up the dog and they are placed with their recipient. Although the outcome is rewarding it is also very emotionally difficult to give up a dog you have raised and trained for over two years.

The ideal candidate must love dogs and be comfortable taking a dog to almost any public setting. They must also have time daily to devote to training exercises with the dog. The ability and flexibility to travel with the dog to various class and training situations are also needed.

We are also looking for part-time puppy pals. If you have an afternoon, day, weekend, really any time to spare. We need individuals to get our dogs out and about with different handlers to help with their socialization skills and get them ready for the various environments they may encounter as a working service dog. If you love dogs and have some spare time in your schedule this is the ideal volunteer position for you.