Co-Raisers
What is a Co-Raiser?
Co-Raisers are dedicated volunteers who are interested in working as part of a team to collaboratively raise a dog.
These Puppy Raisers share responsibility to raise our Service Dog in Training 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. Together, they will work out a schedule to ensure the NEADS dog is cared for seven days a week.
As a Co-Raiser:
- You welcome a puppy over the age of 8 weeks old into your home
- With your co-raiser, you will create a schedule to ensure the NEADS dog is cared for and provided a safe, healthy, and loving environment seven days a week.
- You will follow the progress of the Service Dog in Training with teammates.
- You practice training and socialization exercises, as well as daily exercise, as directed by the NEADS Raiser Instructor.
- You attend regular classes with a NEADS Raiser Instructor, both on and off campus.
Support for Puppy Raisers
- NEADS Raiser Instructors: Weekly in-person classes with a qualified NEADS Instructor and one-on-one consultations and advice by phone or email as needed.
- Dog Sitters: network of temporary homes who can keep Service Dogs in Training for vacations or time off needed.
- Teammate: raising as a team offers the opportunity to share resources and responsibilities
- Supplies: NEADS provides all the necessary supplies for its puppy raisers, at an estimated cost of approximately $5,000:
- Food
- Treats
- Crate & Puppy supply kit
- Dental care (toothbrush & toothpaste)
- Toys, chews
- Flea, tick & heartworm preventatives
- Pre-approved veterinary care