Raise a Puppy
A Puppy Raising Option for Every Lifestyle
Whether you’re a busy family, retiree, working professional, or college student, there is a path that fits your life. Our raiser community spans across southern Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and southern New Hampshire.
If you’re ready to welcome a future Service Dog into your week and change a life, we’d love to have you join our community.
Unsure where to start? Take our “Which Raiser Are You” quiz to find out!
Full-Time Puppy Raiser
Welcome a future Service Dog into your home 24/7 as a full part of your daily routine. You’re never doing it alone – NEADS staff and a supportive Raiser community are with you at every stage. Learn more and apply.
Co-Raiser
Want to help raise a future Service Dog but can’t commit to every day of the week? Share the raising with another approved volunteer on a set weekly schedule you agree on together – split between two homes. We encourage you to bring your own co-raiser (friend, neighbor, family member), or we’ll help pair you with someone. Learn more and apply.
Weekend Puppy Raiser
Host a Service Dog in Training Friday evening through Sunday to help them explore the outside world. By sharing your weekend routine, you give a puppy the real-world exposure they need to succeed – a predictable commitment with a humbe impact. Learn more and apply.
College Raiser
This path starts with a student club, not a solo application. Built around student-run clubs at eligible colleges, each dog is supported by a small student team (one Primary Raiser, one Co-Raiser, two Sitters), so no one carries a puppy alone. Learn more and apply.