Guide Dogs of America Needs Volunteer ‘Puppy Raisers'

Working with wonderful woofers, the sort of furry joy-bringers that make a difference in people’s lives?

Pitching in with a pack of incredible pups can make a lasting impression on a person’s mind, outlook, and, for sure, their spirit, too.

And that chance to lend a hand, your time, some empathy and understanding, and a whole lot of love is coming up, on Dec. 11, thanks to a “puppy raiser” training session with Guide Dogs of America.

This is a virtual happening, via Zoom, and it will be the final online information event before in-person gatherings return to the Sylmar campus in 2022.

Guide Dogs of American pairs trained pups with “… individuals who are blind/visually impaired and service dogs for veterans and children with autism,” with dogs also being placed in “hospitals, schools, and courtrooms.”

“Our highly skilled canines become trusted companions that increase people’s confidence, mobility, and independence. All programs and services, including transportation, personalized training, room/board, and postgraduate support, are provided at no cost to the recipient,” states the organization on its site.

And helping the organization achieve its mission?

Puppy raisers, those dedicated volunteers who are among some of the first people a young, in-training dog gets to know, trust, and adore.

If you choose to pursue volunteering for this life-changing role, there’ll be a few initial considerations, as well as matters you’ll want to mull.

One consideration? Where you reside. You and the puppy in your care will need to call upon the Sylmar campus on occasion, and attendance at both monthly puppy group meetings and “puppy kindergarten classes” is required.

The Dec. 11 information session will address what you can expect from meetings and classes, as well as what at-home life will be like with the future guide dog you’re helping to raise.

Questions covered include the breeds and types of puppies that volunteers raise, what can be expected in terms of puppy proofing and such, what out-of-pocket expenses might look like, and how long the puppy will live in your home.

And, yes: “(W)hat happens when the dogs ‘go off to college’ to begin formal training” is also a central topic of the session, as well as how dogs are paired with their forever people once they’ve graduated.

The word straight from Sylmar? “We ALWAYS need puppy raisers,” says Stephanie Colman, the coordinator of the puppy program.

So even if you can’t join the December Zoom, you can plan to attend an in-person information session on the Guide Dogs of America campus, in early 2022.

Could this be your new year’s resolution?

Touching rescue: despite her injured nose, the puppy gave kisses as soon as she could.

It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for kindness and compassion.

This brave little girl was saved by a nice passer-by after her nose bled heavily, splattering her legs with clotted blood. She was put onto a carry-basket and evaluated for injuries, including a seriously sprained leg.

Despite her suffering and bewilderment, she proved to be a tough braveheart. After getting pain treatment, supporting bandages, and many of love, her tail produced a little wag, indicating her life-loving enthusiasm.

This story of courage and resilience is an uplifting reminder of the strength of the human spirit. It is a monument to the power of kindness and compassion, and how even the tiniest acts of kindness can make a difference in someone’s life.

The little girl’s story is a reminder of the necessity of being prepared for medical crises. It is crucial to have a first aid kit on available and to know how to utilize it. It is also important to know how to spot the signals of a medical emergency and to ask for aid if required.

It is also important to be aware of the risks associated with specific activity. For example, if a child is playing outside, it is important to make sure they are wearing protective clothing and that they are monitored. It is also important to be aware of the potential for injuries and to take actions to prevent them.

Lastly, it is important to remember that even in the most terrible of situations, there is always hope. This little girl’s story is a reminder that even in the face of misfortune, there is always the potential for resilience and courage.