Thirteen Labrador retriever puppies from NEADS World Class Service Dogs are in need of household placements before the end of March to help raise them in their crucial progression from pups to pros.
The Princeton-based nonprofit organization said it is “actively seeking full-time puppy raisers” in Worcester and Franklin counties, including Leominster, Fitchburg, Greenfield and Gardner.
NEADS said the puppies have undergone early skills such as crate training, leash walking and housebreaking at its Early Learning Center, but are now ready for “the next step in their development.”
Those interested in becoming a full-time puppy raiser for NEADS can apply online. Those deemed to be a good fit will be connected with a NEADS staff member to schedule an orientation, and from there on a home visit.
Designated puppy raisers take a “service dog in training” into their homes for six to 12 months, and provide them with care, socialization and basic obedience training, according to NEADS.
Alternatively, a “team raising program” is also available for volunteers to work as a member of a team tasked with collaboratively raising a puppy for half a year to a year.
NEADS said interested candidates must provide their puppies with a “nurturing home environment,” work on critical socialization and obedience to expose the dogs to public spaces in daily life, work on physical management of young and energetic dogs and attend training sessions with a NEADS trainer.
These training sessions have multiple format options, including in person at NEADS’ campus, online or at a mutually convenient meeting location for raisers and instructors.
NEADS said a puppy raiser can vary from individuals, to couples, families and retirees and that they should be those who can dedicate time to training and socializing a dog and wish to make a difference.
“The demand for highly trained service dogs continues to grow,” said Heather Romanoff, NEADS’ manager of raiser operations, in a statement.
Romanoff added that those who step up to be puppy raisers are “essential partners” in NEADS’ mission and called the experience ”unique and rewarding.”
Those who are selected as puppy raisers will receive “comprehensive support” from NEADS, the organization said. This includes all food, veterinary care and necessary supplies for the dog, and ongoing, individualized support and training assistance from professionals.
NEADS also offers a program for “Weekend Puppy Raisers” who take NEADS puppies out of its Prison PUP program each weekend for one to two years to develop house manners, socialization and training skills with these dogs.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
