For decades our Guide Dogs have been providing people with low vision and blindness with independence, companionship, and confidence. It takes a lot of work for our dogs to reach this point, though, and in amongst their training, our Puppy Raisers play an essential role in caring for them so that they might one day become life-changing Guide Dogs.

So, what is Puppy Raising, and how do you know if it’s right for you?

Our Puppy Raisers play an incredibly important role in the development of our future Guide Dogs, ensuring that they not only receive essential care and training but also experience a loving home environment.

Puppy Raising can be anywhere from a 6–14-month commitment as the program varies between each state. During that time, Puppy Raisers are responsible for:

• Making the puppy part of the family and keeping them safe.
• Attending regular training sessions in your area (this will vary by State).
• Teaching the pup basic skills, including good behaviour while walking on a lead and helping them to become well socialized.
• Establishing good toileting, feeding, sleeping, and walking routines.

Puppy Raising is a truly rewarding experience, and the role that you will play in supporting our Guide Dogs through this crucial period of their lives will one day make a huge difference to a person with low vision or blindness. However, there are some perceived barriers or ‘myths’ out there that lead people to believe they can’t or shouldn’t be a Puppy Raiser. Below we bust some of the most common Puppy Raising myths that hold people back from enjoying this wonderful experience.

1. It costs too much money: Guide Dogs covers all costs associated with caring for our puppies including food, equipment, preventative medications, veterinary care, and general boarding expenses.
2. I haven’t owned a dog before: If you’ve ever wanted to own a family dog but are concerned about the long-term commitment of caring for your own pet, Puppy Raising is a great alternative. Guide Dogs will come and work in your area and provide you with free expert training and support so you can feel confident in looking after your pup.
3. I don’t know anyone else doing it: In addition to our ongoing support, we also offer peer support and group training where you will meet other Puppy Raisers, some of whom will also meet separately to catch up for puppy play dates!
4. I have cats and other pets: Our dogs grow up with all variety of other pets and, if anything, exposing them to other animals at an early age will help them become more accustomed and create a safer experience for their future Handler once they become a working Guide Dog.
5. I have my own dog: As with other pets, this could be a good thing. However, we do take into consideration whether they will be a good role model for our pups, such as displaying good house manners and proper socialisation behaviours. Additionally, any pet dogs in the home will need to be desexed, dewormed and up to date with their vaccinations.
6. I have holidays planned: Guide Dogs offers temporary care and boarding care while you are away, so you can rest assured that your pup is well looked after. Some states will also allow you to take your pup on holiday (within the state), but please speak to your Guide Dogs state representative about any holidays you may have planned.
7. I work full time and won’t have time to care for a puppy: Depending on your work environment, a pup may be able to accompany you to work!
8. I live in an apartment: If you live in an apartment, you can still be a Puppy Raiser, but the pup must have access to a suitable toileting area. Please discuss this with your Guide Dogs state representative.
9. I’m worried the pup’s sharp teeth will harm my children: If you have young children, we will do our best to match you with an older pup who is past the teething stage.
10. Having a puppy will impact my lifestyle: We know everyone has their own commitments and routines, which is why we ensure our pups match your lifestyle, so you can continue enjoying life as normal.
11. I will struggle to give the pup back: This is by far one of the biggest reasons why people believe they can’t be a Puppy Raiser. And while it can be a bittersweet moment to hand a pup back once you have bonded with it, it’s important to remember that you will be making an incredible difference to the life of a person with low vision or blindness. The journey along the way is truly rewarding and something you will always be able to cherish. And when you’re ready, a brand-new pup will soon be available for you to experience the same joy all over again.

It’s easy to become a Puppy Raiser, simply click one of the links below to find out more about becoming a Puppy Raiser in your state and fill out the application form towards the end of the page.

• Click here if you live in NSW/ACT
• Click here if you live in VIC
• Click here if you live in SA/NT
• Click here if you live in QLD

If you can’t commit to the Puppy Raising program, you can still apply to be a Temporary Carer. Temporary Carers provide a loving home for our pups when their Puppy Raisers go on holiday or are unable to look after them for a short period of time.

Become a Puppy Raiser or Temporary Carer today and help change the life of a person with low vision or blindness!