dogs in training
NSD Trooper
Trooper is currently with his puppy raiser. He is being taught a foundation of house manners and cues, for becoming a well-socialized part of the community.
Woof! Woof!
(Hello!)
Breed: Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Date of Birth: November 15, 2023
Sire: SSD Tico
Dam: NSD Euchre
Litter: T Litter
Puppy Sponsor: Ottawa Police Service
Volunteer Team: Sandy & Rob, Lindsay Mustard
Fund My TrainingSponser Future NSD Puppies
Help Our Service Dogs Change Lives
Donate
At NSD, we do not receive any government funding to support our mission. Instead, we rely entirely on the generous support of individual donors, community partners, corporate sponsors, service clubs, and through annual fundraising events.
Help us empower people to achieve their full potential. Show your support and donate today.
Volunteer
NSD would not exist without the tireless efforts of our dedicated volunteers. Their commitment to our mission and the individuals we serve is truly inspiring, and we are honoured to have them as part of our family.
If you are interested in joining our outstanding team of volunteers, we encourage you to submit an application.
Trooper's Updates
February 2024
Trooper, also known as Troops and lil’ man, has been a wonderful addition to our pack! We had the privilege of hosting Trooper’s mom Euchre, for her whelp, so we have had the little guy since day one! He is adjusting to his new life very well and has his sit, down, wait and recall commands down! We’re almost potty trained (accidents sometimes happen!) and are sleeping soundly through the night. He loves to play with our two older dogs and is anxious to get in on their morning walks – he always “walks” them to the door with their leashes in his mouth! When he’s not playing with them, he is working on settling on his mat, which is getting easier every time!
April 2024
Trooper a spunky, cuddly and sweet pup who loves to play fetch in the backyard, hunt for sticks, wrestle with his furry friend Luna and take every opportunity to sneak in a kiss if you’re reaching for something on his level. He has recently started accompanying me to the gym and clinic, where he is settling easily and practicing meet and greets with new faces. He has also visited the fire hall and been exposed to the trucks, ambulances, lights and sirens – they didn’t even phase him!
Everything You Need to Know
Training
Volunteer
Apply
The flow of dogs through NSD’s Programs takes 0-2 years as follows:
- Step 1: Breeding Program
- Step 2: Volunteer Raiser Programs
- Step 3: Behavioural Assessments
- Step 4: University/College
- Step 5: Placement
The tireless efforts of our clients, staff, and volunteers allow our dogs in training to succeed, with social workers and mental health professionals present to ensure our entire process stays people-centric. After about 2 years of training and assessment, our NSD graduates are successfully placed in a client’s home.
Become a Puppy Raiser
Help raise a puppy into a life-changing Service Dog by providing love, training, and socialization until they are 14-16 months old.
Become an Adult Raiser
Help facilitate training and care for a Service Dog until they find their forever family. Polish the dog’s current skills and manners and test their abilities with a new handler as they enter a new environment.
Become a Carpool Driver
Transport Service Dogs with your car to their weekday training sessions. This volunteer role involves picking up NSD University/College dogs from their Adult Raiser’s home and bringing them to training in Kitchener/Cambridge.
Several factors determine the cost of a Service Dog.
Over their eight to ten year working life, Service Dogs are valued up to $50,000. However, each dog is provided free of charge to approved clients. All food and veterinary costs are borne by the client once the dog has been placed.
NSD receives no government funding and relies entirely on donations from the general public, corporate sponsors, fundraising events, and community supporters. We also host third-party fundraisers in support of our working dog teams.
Applications are on a referral basis. Please visit our program pages for more information.