13 Lab Service Dogs In Training Need Volunteer 'Puppy Raisers'

CRANSTON, RI — Princeton, Massachusetts-based NEADS World Class Service Dogs is seeking full-time puppy raisers for 13 lab service dogs in training — and the canines are available for placement in Cranston and other Rhode Island homes.

These puppies, who have been working on crate training, leash walking, and housebreaking skills at the NEADS Early Learning Center, are ready for the next step in their development and need to be placed before the end of March. Applications are available online here.

Full-time puppy raisers take service dogs in training into their homes and provide care, socialization, and basic obedience training for six-to-12 months, playing a crucial role in preparing these dogs for their future role as service dogs. A team raising program is also available, through which volunteers work as part of a team to collaboratively raise a dog, working out a schedule to ensure the NEADS puppy is cared for seven days a week.

Puppy raiser candidates must be willing and able to:

• Provide a nurturing home environment for a service dog in training
• Work on critical socialization and basic obedience, following NEADS outlined training protocols to expose the dog to everyday life in public settings, including malls, restaurants, and grocery stores to familiarize with various sounds, sights, and people.
• Physically manage a young and energetic dog
• Attend training sessions with a NEADS trainer. Classes are held virtually, at the NEADS campus, and at locations mutually convenient for the raisers and instructors.

In addition to full-time puppy raisers, NEADS is also seeking weekend puppy raisers. Weekend volunteers take NEADS puppies out of the Prison PUP program each weekend for one to two years to work on house manners, socialization and training. NEADS has programs in various locations, including Cranston and Norfolk, Massachusetts.

"The demand for highly trained service dogs continues to grow," NEADS Manager of Raiser Operations Heather Romanoff said. "Puppy raisers are essential partners in our mission and have a unique and rewarding opportunity to help prepare these amazing animals for a career of helping individuals with disabilities. It's a truly rewarding experience."

Puppy raisers can be:

• Individuals, couples, families, and retirees with a passion for dogs.
• People who can dedicate time to training and socializing a young, energetic dog.
• Those who want to make a real difference in their community.

A NEADS spokesperson said the group provides comprehensive support to puppy raisers, including all food, veterinary care, and necessary supplies for the dog and ongoing, individualized support and training assistance from experienced professionals.

The process begins with the submission of an online application. If it is a good fit, a NEADS staff member will be in touch to schedule an orientation, which is followed by a home visit prior to receiving the dog.

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