Full-Time Puppy Raisers

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Change a Life, Raise a Puppy

NEADS World Class Service Dogs change lives every day, and you can be part of this life-changing story when you join NEADS as a volunteer Puppy Raiser.

Full-time Puppy Raisers are dedicated volunteers who take our Service Dogs in Training into their homes and look after them for 12 to 16 months, working on critical socialization and basic obedience. The dog is then moved into a prison facility to finish its Service Dog training or is chosen as a Breeder Dog.

Take the first step to becoming a Full Time Puppy Raiser

Apply today!

Apply to be a Full Time Puppy Raiser

purpose

You’ll be part of a life-changing story, helping to provide independence for someone with a physical disability, hearing loss, or a child with autism.

support

You’re not on your own— you’ll attend regular training sessions with a NEADS trainer and will be part of a supportive community dedicated to this mission.

supplies

NEADS provides all the necessities you’ll need, including food, treats, toys, veterinary care, and more.

success

Giving you the confidence to focus on what matters most: raising a puppy with a purpose.

Who Makes a Good Full-Time Puppy Raiser?

The ideal candidate is just about anyone who is able to devote the time, energy, and love necessary to successfully socialize and train a NEADS Service Dog in Training We are looking for young families, couples, retirees, and individuals.

Are You Ready?

Before you apply to become a Full-Time Puppy Raiser for one of our adorable, energetic puppies, it’s helpful to understand what we need from you. If you can answer “yes” to these questions, then please consider applying!

  1. Are you physically able to manage a young and energetic dog?
  2. Are you able to attend weekly training sessions with NEADS trainers?
  3. Are you available to socialize* a puppy every day under NEADS guidelines?
  4. If you have any other pets at home, are they happy, relaxed and friendly towards people and other animals?
  5. Are you prepared to handle the puppy and teach them crate training, house training, and other appropriate behaviors in the home?
  6. If you  would like to take the NEADS dog with you to your office, do you have your company’s and NEADS’ approval?

** Socializing consists of following NEADS outlined field trip levels which expose the dog to everyday life in public. For example libraries, malls, grocery stores, crowds, meeting all different kinds of people, etc.