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, Full-Time Puppy Raisers, Breeder Caretakers
Which role is right for me?
Weekend Puppy Raisers
- Volunteers make a 12-18 month-long commitment to raising a puppy on weekends only.
- 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
- Volunteers make a 12-16 month long commitment to raising a puppy in their homes, full time.
- 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
- Volunteers host our breeder dogs in their homes, returning the dog to campus when needed for breeding and whelping.
- 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