Become a Puppy Raiser

Puppy raisers are responsible for shaping the future of newly born puppies, into adulthood.

This volunteer role is essential as it requires you to house, feed, and nurture a puppy to be able to help their disabled partners. The most rewarding moment is watching the puppy you raised get matched with a disabled individual and knowing that your training and expertise are what helped make it all possible.  
 

Yay! We’re happy that you are considering joining the Gap Service Dog team as a puppy raiser. As a puppy raiser, you will be playing a critical role in the development of a newborn puppy into a service-ready dog. This is both a rewarding and challenging job. Below is a list of expectations and requirements.

• Agree to a 12-24 month commitment and to return puppy upon request

• Attend weekly Sunday classes (in the Denver metro area) and follow the puppy raiser manual

• Basic obedience training

• Attend canine first aid class

• Provide monetarily for the puppy

  • Provide food

  • Provide veterinary care

  • Provide toys and extra equipment as needed

• Provide a safe environment for the puppy

  • Safe (puppy proof?) home

  • Keep the puppy on leash or in a secured fence area

• Family or housemates must agree to the same methods you are using - consistency

• Other dogs and/or cats in the house agreeable to having a new puppy in the house

• Must be 18 or older or have parents/guardians involved in the process

• Able to handle a 60-80 lb high energy working dog

  • Able to bend, crouch, and kneel

• Provide sufficient exercise (45-60 minutes daily) for your puppy

• Able to take the puppy with you daily to work or school with the permission of employer or school.

  • Puppy raising team or puppy sitter

• Daily socialization outings and training sessions

If you think you have what it takes to become a GAP Puppy Raiser, then apply below:

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