Puppy Raisers all have one thing in common: they embrace the opportunity to help change people’s lives forever. A good Puppy Raiser is someone who is caring, patient, responsible, and loves giving pats and cuddles!

As a Puppy Raiser, you will welcome a puppy into your home and help them establish good toileting, feeding, sleeping and walking routines. Raising and training a puppy is an amazing experience that is incredibly rewarding for you and your family.

About the role

You will care and look after a puppy for 12-14 months. You receive the puppy at eight weeks old and provide love and socialisation until they reach advanced training and working age. You can be an individual or a family and you don’t need to have a backyard. We want the puppy to grow up in diverse areas so they can be matched with a suited Handler.

Minimum requirements

• Walk the puppy daily
• Not leave the puppy for more than four hours (they can’t be alone without supervision or human company for long)
• Have a car to transport your puppy

What you will get

• All food (including lots of treats) and any vet costs are covered by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT
• Weekly group training in your area with a qualified Guide Dogs instructor
• One-on-one support for you and your dog, with regular home visits
• Leash, vest, kong etc.

Why be a Puppy Raiser Your contribution to a Guide Dog’s early stage is paramount in creating the right temperament to see them succeed as working dogs. Guide Dogs are trained to help someone who is blind or has low vision navigate their world. They can stop at kerbs and intersections, weave through crowds, direct their Handler to the bus stop, find an empty seat and, most importantly, avoid obstacles. Your help provides these life-changing services to people with low vision or blindness.

Note: If you can’t commit to the 12 months, shorter periods are available. Also, if you need to be away from home for a brief period, such as take a holiday, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT provides boarding options for your puppy.

For more information, contact Guide Dogs NSW/ACT by calling 02 9412 9300.

Thank you so much for your interest in becoming part of the Guide Dog Family!!