Raise a Puppy, Host a Breeder
NEADS is always seeking Puppy Raisers, families who open their homes to one of our amazing puppies in training. Puppy raiser opportunities include Weekend Puppy Raisers and Full-Time Puppy Raisers.
Our Breeder Caretakers look after a NEADS dog that is part of the NEADS Breeding Colony. These dogs are treated much like a pet, and the caretakers are responsible for keeping them healthy and happy.
Weekend Puppy Raisers
Volunteers make a 12-18 month-long commitment to raising a puppy on weekends only. Learn more.
Breeder Caretakers
Breeder Caretakers host our breeder dogs in their homes, returning the dog to campus when needed for breeding and whelping. Breeder dogs are treated much like pets. Learn more
Weekend Puppy Raisers, Full-Time Puppy Raisers, Breeder Caretakers
Which role is right for me?
Weekend Puppy Raisers
- Pick up/Drop off: Prison
- Commitment: 3 weekends/month for 12-18 months
- Dog: Same dog every weekend from same prison
- Training: Maintain the obedience that the dog has learned in prison
- Classes: 1 class/month taught by the Puppy Program Assistant
- Socialization: 4-6 field trips per weekend, guided by NEADS socialization protocols
- Application: Online
Full-Time Puppy Raisers
- Pick up/Drop off: N/A
- Commitment: 14-16 months
- Dog: Same dog 24/7
- Training: 1-2 classes/week in Princeton, MA area; follow NEADS training and socialization protocols
- Field Trips: 6-10 field trips out in public weekly
- Application: Online
Breeder Caretaker
- Pick up/Drop off: N/A
- Commitment: 1-3 years and then Caretaker can adopt
- Dog: Same dog, 24/7
- Training: Keep the NEADS dog safe and happy
- Field Trips: NEADS dog does not have public access
- Paperwork & Commitment: Monthly weight forms; bring NEADS dog to campus once every 3 months + when needed for breeding
- Application: Online