Volunteer Puppy Raisers are an important part of a dog's journey to becoming a Service Dog. They provide socialization and basic training to puppies for 12-16 months before the dog begins more formal training with Erieview Service Dogs. The goal is to prepare the dog for the many different experiences and environments it will encounter during life as a Service Dog. For the puppy raiser, this means consistently socializing the puppy by bringing it out in public in their training jacket to places such as malls, grocery stores, movie theatres, restaurants, playgrounds and exposing the dog to different forms of transportation such as busses and trains. The Puppy Raiser is also responsible for general care of the puppy including daily exercise, feeding, grooming, affection, and providing transportation to veterinary appointments when required.
Training guidance and support is always available from Erieview Service Dogs, and regular training classes are held in the Guelph area for puppies in training. Erieview Service Dogs provides all Puppy Raisers with dog food, training crate, training jacket, initial puppy collar and leash, and any other necessary training equipment. The Puppy Raiser is responsible for the purchase of any additional items such as toys and treats. If you are interested in fostering a puppy, please complete the application form below. |