Adult Raiser
Help Raise Our Future NSD Companions
Have you wondered how Service Dogs learn to help their handlers? Do you want to be part of a Service Dog’s journey? By dedicating your time, energy, and love, you get one of the most rewarding experiences possible. The best part is, you don’t need any experience!
Adult Raiser
Take on a Service Dog-in-Training when they are 14-16 months old to help facilitate their training and care until they find their forever family.
As a NSD Adult Raiser you’ll provide a future service dog with a loving home while they’re in advanced training for about six (6) months. During this time, you’ll focus on consistent home manners, and test their abilities to work with a new handler. While in advanced training, the dogs will attend advanced training during the week but will return to their Adult Raiser on evenings and weekends.This volunteer role requires firm expectations and consistency as these dogs are getting close to finding their forever family.
Adult Raisers receive support from our training team, and learn new skills while making new friends! NSD Adult Raisers take on a dog for about six months until they are placed with their client.
What NSD offers:
- All food, veterinary care, puppy jackets and training collars for the NSD dog in your home.
- 24/7 access to health support.
- One on One training support, and group training classes.
- Grief & Loss program to assist with canine transitions.
- Puppy Sitting: our own vetted, dedicated group of volunteers who are able (and thrilled) to care for your dog in training when you’re not able too!
- Our own NSD dog off-leash park, perfect for letting furry friends burn off extra puppy energy.
What we’re looking for:
- Patience, dedication, and willingness to learn about service dogs, their training and care.
- Live within 30 minutes of the NSD Education Centre (1440 King St. E.), to ensure transportation to University.
- Commitment to attending monthly training classes (evenings).
- Have a maximum of two (2) dogs in their home. Dogs must be over one year of age.
What you’ll provide:
- Love, support, supervision and patience for your puppy in training.
- Basic supplies including dog toys, crate, food/water bowl and leash (discounts available.)
- While not required, it’s helpful if you’re able to drop off or pick up the dog in training at the Education Centre.
By deciding to become a NSD Adult Raiser, you are helping change lives: One Individual, One Dog, One Life at a Time!
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