This is not a drill! If raising puppies sounds like your dream ‘job’, then you’ll be thrilled to know that the SA Guide-Dogs Association is looking for puppy raiser volunteers!
South Africa (04 October 2024) — Training heroes with tails for a super cause is a pretty unique gig. Not only do you get to spend precious time as a puppy raiser, but you’ll also kickstart the young pooch’s journey as a life-changing pal who will go on to positively impact the lives of visually impaired and physically disabled people, as well as children on the Autism spectrum.
If raising a puppy for such an important cause sounds like your dream ‘job’, then we’ve got news that’ll make your ears perk up like a puppy hearing ‘walkies’.
The South African Guide-Dogs Association is in search of volunteers to help them raise puppies.
Here’s How it Works!
You will receive the puppy at around eight weeks old from the association along with a puppy pack that contains all the puppy essentials (a collar, lead, jacket, chew toy, treat bag and a blanket. Your puppy will also get access to vaccinations, deworming meds, and tick and flea protection throughout its time with you (all food and vet bills will be covered).
For the many months you two will be together (until the pup is 16 months old), there will be a lot of adventures to be had.
From cuddles and walks to training sessions, the puppy raiser will need to be prepared to spend a lot of time with their four-legged bestie. So, people who love taking their dogs everywhere they go would be perfect candidates!
As for the training sessions, the puppy raiser and the dog will need to attend once a week at the SA Guide Dogs’ premises. Classes are an hour long and run by a Puppy Raising Supervisor.
When 16 months flies by, the puppy will graduate to formal training. Puppy raisers will get to have their dogs at home with them over weekends and holidays, so it won’t be a goodbye just yet.
Once formal training is done and dusted, it’ll be time to let the dog off the leash as they match with a new person whose life will become one of freedom and independence thanks to the dog you raised. They’ll be all grown up and an official Guide Dog, Service Dog or Autism Support Dog.
Puppy Raiser Requirements
- 18 years or older
- A responsible dog lover
- A calm and patient temperament
- Physical fitness and capable of caring for a puppy
- Flexible hours (even if you have a full-time office job)
- Availability to attend the weekly training sessions on weekdays for 21 weeks during office hours
- Availability to attend monthly or bi-monthly outings with the pup and other raisers
- Have your own transport and a valid driver’s license
- Be able to commit up to 16 months with the puppy
You can sign up by emailing AlidaP@guidedog.org.za and find more info at www.guidedog.org.za
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