Becoming a Volunteer Puppy Raiser

Independence Dogs is looking for dog lovers to open their hearts and homes to special puppies. Puppies are tested for temperament and ability, and are accepted into the IDI program as young as seven weeks of age. They live with volunteer puppy raisers until they are approximately one year old, at which time they are returned to the IDI school for advanced training.

Volunteer puppy raisers are responsible for teaching the puppy basic obedience commands, socializing the puppy in a wide variety of settings, and providing lots of love. The IDI Puppy Home Coordinator and trainers provide guidance and help during the year, so that the pup has the best possible start for a future as a service dog. Once the pup is ready to graduate and begin life with his or her partner, the puppy raiser is invited to attend a graduation ceremony to meet the pup’s new human partner, say goodbye, and feel wonderful about having played such a great role in enhancing the life of a physically challenged person.