A Cambridge-based organization that helps raise service dogs says there is an urgent need for volunteer "puppy raisers" to help a new litter of labrador retriever pups start off on the right paw.
National Service Dogs says a dozen eight-week-old labs are urgently in need of loving and committed volunteers in Cambridge and the surrounding areas as soon as June 23.
Puppy raisers receive a puppy when it is approximately eight weeks old. They foster the dog until it is 12 to 15 months old.
Puppy raisers are responsible for teaching their puppy good behaviour at home and in public and exposing them to the busy world around them.
Puppy raisers will be asked to take the puppies everywhere possible – to work, out to eat, shop, and even on vacation.
"This real-world training imitates the experiences that service dogs need to successfully help become the best service dog possible for NSD clients," the organization said in a news release.
Raising a puppy is a great learning experience that not only gives volunteers valuable experience working with dogs but also teaches patience, focus and responsibility, the NSD said.
Regular training sessions are a part of the ongoing support puppy raisers get from NSD’s Puppy Program team, as well as regular educational opportunities such as pet first aid and opportunities to socialize with other volunteers.
Learn more or complete an application at this link.
