So You Want to be a Puppy Raiser?
The majority of NSD's service dogs are raised in volunteer homes from approximately 8 weeks of age to 16 months of age. We are looking for young families, couples, retirees or single individuals who are able to devote the time, energy and love necessary to successfully socialize a puppy. Raising a puppy can be strenuous so applicants must be able to walk for 30-40 minutes in any one session
We require volunteer puppy raisers to undertake the job of socialization, house training and basic obedience training for NSD's future service dogs. Puppies start obedience training classes with NSD instructors very early to begin introducing basic obedience commands, set socialization goals, and connect as a group to solve and prevent common puppy problems. Puppy raisers must be able to commit to twice monthly classes. Classes must be attended throughout the entire time they have the puppy, starting at beginner level up to more advanced tasks.
Puppy raisers are also required to attend several "social outings" held in various public environments with NSD instructors. For example, the trainers may schedule outings to shopping malls, parks, pet stores, or restaurants.
Help to get sponsorships for your puppy! By being a puppy raiser you'll raise awareness for our cause. You don't have to ask for money but by telling people about the sponsorship program and guiding them to your own sponsorship page you can help us fundraise to support NSD and the work we do.
Are You Ready To Become A Puppy Raiser?
Before you think puppy raising is for you, there are some important questions to consider. You should answer yes to all of the following questions. If you "pass the test" you may make a valuable puppy raiser!
* Are you willing to make a 12- 14 month commitment to the puppy?
* Are you familiar with the work involved in successfully raising a puppy?
* Are you patient and consistent with animals?
* Will you be devoted to the project?
* Are you home during the day? (the puppy cannot be crated more than 4
hours at a time and will need a relief/exercise part way through the day)
* Are you willing to follow the directions given to you by NSD trainers?
* Are you committed to the puppy being a part of your family?
* Will you be able to leash walk your puppy in all weathers on the streets for at least 30 to 40 minutes per day?
* Will you be able to take the puppy into public environments (i.e. malls, grocery stores, movies, restaurants, parks, sports events, etc.) at least 3 times per week?
Your puppy will need daily free playtime to relieve stress and tension if he is left alone during the day. You will need to devote time each day to practice obedience and make time for social outings in public to lead to the successful training and socialization of a Service dog. It is crucial that this all-important training and socialization be carried out in a positive and fun manner. Dog training is not difficult, but requires patience, consistency and repetition. Puppies have receptive minds and love to learn new things. They are happiest when given a task to do or a new skill to learn. Remember that often puppies that are bored will become destructive and will engaging in activities like chewing inappropriate objects or dig for recreation. Success comes with commitment, so the training of an NSD puppy must somehow fit in between your work, school, TV shows, and other weekly activities.
What are you supplied with when you raise a puppy for NSD?
* Puppy Orientation/Information Seminar (usually occurs several weeks prior to taking the puppy)
* NSD Puppy Training Manual
* Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food generously donated by Nestle Purina.
* Vaccinations generously donated by Pfizer
* Routine veterinary care, including spay and neuter
* Sentinel medication for heartworm/flea prevention generously donated by Novartis Animal Health
* Spay/neuter
* NSD Puppy training jackets
* Small leash
* Adjustable flat collar
* Free NSD puppy classes
* Support from our dedicated NSD staff and volunteers.
The Puppy Raiser must supply the following items:
* Pet Bed
* Large or Extra Large Dog Crate
* Approved Treats
* Any additional approved toys
* A leash as the puppy grows
* A safe and loving home
* Water
PUPPY RAISE TODAY!
If you would like to be a puppy raiser and you live in the Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, London or surrounding area (you must be able to attend ongoing classes and training outings)please contact us. Classes are held in Cambridge, London and Stratford
CLICK HERE TO FILL IN OUR ON LINE PUPPY RAISER APPLICATION FORM
PLEASE IGNORE THE REFERENCE REQUEST ON THE APPLICATION FORM. THIS IS NO LONGER REQUIRED
