Request a puppy raiser application

Puppy Raisers must comply with the following regulations. By submitting this form you acknowledge that there are standards and special care required to care for one of our program dogs. Submitting this form does not guarentee your acceptance into the program.

Basic Regulations

1) Provide a safe and loving environment for the puppy.

2) Attend K9PAD or K9PAD approved lessons as required (weekly lessons)

3) Use reward-based training methods as taught by K9PAD and approved trainers.

4) Work closely with K9PAD to monitor and record the puppy's progress.

5) Keep weekly training logs

6) Feed the puppy the approved diet.

7) Ensure your puppy attends all required veterinary appointments.

8) Provide the puppy with age-appropriate socialization and outings.

9) Supervise the puppy at all times or ensure the puppy is crated when it can't be supervised directly.

10) Provide appropriate play sessions in safe and secure environments.

11) Crate train the puppy.

12) Teach the puppy manners and basic obedience as per the K9PAD protocols.

13) Ensure approved puppy sitting is provided if you are going away or unable to care for your puppy short term.

14) Be able to have access to reliable transportation to attend sessions as required.

15) Not allow the K9PAD dog to be off leash (long lines are okay!)

16) No playing with strange dogs.

17) Treat the entire K9PAD team with kindness and respect. Work together with other volunteers to ensure the best development for your puppy and others.

Please take careful consideration before applying as a puppy raiser. Most puppy raising terms are about 16-18 months long. As a puppy raiser, you are responsible for the above basic regulations as well as our policies and procedures. Raising a puppy to become a future Service Dog is a big commitment. We provide veterinary bills, food costs, basic supplies, crate, and some toys. Puppy raisers are responsible for a few costs such as toys and treats.

It is important during the puppy raising process that the puppy does not have to experience transitioning to different puppy raisers because the puppy raiser is unable to commit. As a small team of volunteers, it can be difficult to accommodate a puppy needing to switch homes. The first few months of puppy raising can be very difficult and overwhelming. Please be sure that you are able to take on this commitment before applying.