Volunteer Puppy Raiser

Puppy Raisers play a crucial role producing confident, exceptionally skilled service and facility dogs. By raising a puppy in their home, the puppy raiser provides a puppy-in-training the opportunity to live in a home and experience the real world, which is essential to producing confident, exceptionally skilled service and facility dogs. JOY FILLED BENEFITS: Learn new skills such as best practices in positive dog training, advocating for a puppy-in-training, and communicating with the general public. Join a community of folks who are passionate about dogs and animal welfare. Participate in the “Passing of the Leash” ceremony. Lots of wagging tails and dog snuggles. Puppy breath. The companionship of a dog without the lifelong commitment. Knowing you are changing the life of an individual who is d/Deaf.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide love, support, training, socialization and an invaluable in-home experience for a Paragon puppy, for 9 to 12 months. Provide a safe, secure, loving home with appropriate food, toys, and crate. Supply replacement items and treats; cover own transportation costs to/from puppy classes etc. Keep the puppy well-groomed and healthy. Teach the puppy basic skills and appropriate behavior using Paragon’s cues and techniques. Promote confidence in the puppy and an eagerness to work through positive reinforcement. Follow Paragon’s procedures and guidelines. Attend 2-3 puppy classes per month. Provide age appropriate outings and experiences for socialization. Complete and submit monthly puppy reports in a timely manner. Seek assistance and support as needed from Paragon staff. Help raise awareness for Paragon’s mission when you’re out and about. Have fun with and enjoy your puppy! PARAGON’S RESPONSIBILITIES: Dog food, dog equipment (leash, collar, crate, vest), and preventatives are covered by Paragon. All routine veterinary care is covered. Provide support and consistent communication with knowledgeable staff to answer questions, troubleshoot, and problem-solve any areas of concern in person, over the phone, or by email throughout the raising period. Provide regular (usually weekly) puppy classes and virtual/phone meetings as needed by raisers. Monthly training updates when the dog has been accepted into the program and continued on to advanced training. Relevant Paragon status updates - medical assessments, placements, career paths, etc.