Raising a Guide Dog Puppy

A: You need to be at least 18 years old, have a suitable home environment, be able to provide care and supervision for the puppy, have access to a car, and be willing to follow the guidelines and instructions of the guide dog organization. You also need to have the consent of your landlord if you rent your property, and the agreement of your family or housemates if you live with others.

A: You will typically raise the puppy from about 8 weeks to 14-18 months of age, depending on the guide dog organization and the puppy’s progress. During this time, you will be responsible for socializing, training, and loving the puppy. You will also need to attend regular puppy classes and meetings with your volunteer manager or puppy counselor.

A: You will have to teach the puppy basic obedience commands, such as sit, stay, come, down, and heel. You will also have to expose the puppy to different environments and situations, such as public transport, shops, restaurants, crowds, noises, etc. You will have to use positive reinforcement methods and follow the guide dog organization’s standards and policies. You will receive training and support from the guide dog organization throughout your puppy raising journey.

A: Raising a guide dog puppy can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. You will have the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life by providing them with a guide dog that can enhance their independence and mobility. You will also enjoy the companionship and fun of having a puppy in your home. You will learn new skills and meet new people who share your passion for dogs and volunteering.

A: Raising a guide dog puppy can also be challenging and demanding. You will have to commit a lot of time and energy to care for and train the puppy. You will have to deal with some common puppy problems, such as chewing, biting, barking, jumping, etc. You will also have to cope with the emotional difficulty of giving up the puppy when he or she is ready for advanced training. You will also have to follow some rules and restrictions that may limit your lifestyle or activities.

A: Yes, you do. The guide dog organization will cover the cost of food, veterinary care, and other expenses related to the puppy’s development. You will not have to pay anything for raising the puppy. However, you will still need to have some financial resources to cover your own costs, such as transport, equipment, and personal items.

A: It depends on the guide dog organization and the owner of the guide dog. Some guide dog organizations may allow you to keep in touch with your puppy and their owner after they graduate and become a guide dog. Some owners may also welcome your contact and involvement in their lives. However, some guide dog organizations or owners may prefer to limit or avoid contact with the puppy raisers for various reasons. You should respect their wishes and boundaries, and understand that giving up your puppy is part of the process of raising a guide dog.