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.
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Agree to a 12-24 month commitment and to return puppy upon request
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Attend weekly Sunday classes (in the Denver metro area) and follow the puppy raiser manual
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Basic obedience training
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Attend canine first aid class
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Provide monetarily for the puppy
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Provide food
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Provide veterinary care
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Provide toys and extra equipment as needed
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Provide a safe environment for the puppy
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Safe (puppy proof?) home
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Keep the puppy on leash or in a secured fence area
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Family or housemates must agree to the same methods you are using - consistency
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Other dogs and/or cats in the house agreeable to having a new puppy in the house
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Must be 18 or older or have parents/guardians involved in the process
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Able to handle a 60-80 lb high energy working dog
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Able to bend, crouch, and kneel
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Provide sufficient exercise (45-60 minutes daily) for your puppy
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Able to take the puppy with you daily to work or school with the permission of employer or school.
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Puppy raising team or puppy sitter
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Daily socialization outings and training sessions
If you think you have what it takes to become a GAP Puppy Raiser, then apply below: