Puppy Raiser FAQ
Q. What does a service dog do?
A service dog is a highly trained companion that can perform over 50 commands for its owner. Service dogs can change lives: They can make a difference in a person being able to hold a job, or go to school, and reduce or eliminate the need for a personal aid. Of equal importance is the bridge they create between disabled people and the able-bodied community. The dog is an appealing, warm magnet that draws people to an individual in a wheelchair, an individual who is characteristically ignored and considered invisible. Service Dogs of Virginia clients typically have a disability that requires the use of a wheelchair full or part time, or that involves balance or motor coordination.
Q. How old is the pup when I take him home?
We release puppies to foster families when the pups are eight weeks old.
Q. How long will I keep him?
Your puppy will live with you for approximately fifteen to eighteen months. The pups then return to us for advanced training before being placed at approximately two to three years of age with clients.
Q. How do I train him?
Service Dogs of Virginia provides free weekly training sessions. Attendance at these sessions is mandatory. We use positive training methods, including clicker training. We do not use force-based methods, nor do we use choke, prong, or shock collars. We will teach you how to train your pup: no previous experience is necessary. However, if it becomes apparent that the Puppy Raiser is not practicing the skills we have taught, SDV reserves the right to reclaim the dog. If, at any time, for any other reason, SDV feels that the best interests of SDV and the puppy are not being served, the organization reserves the right to re-home the puppy.
Q. Who pays for vet care and food? How about other expenses?
Service Dogs of Virginia pays for vet care. Sammy Snacks generously donates food to our pups. We provide you with a leash, collar, and ID vest for outings. You will be expected to pay for additional equipment—treats, leashes, collars, toys, etc. Fortunately, Service Dogs of Virginia is able to obtain most supplies for you at an extremely low cost.
Q. How can I possibly give him up when the time comes?
It is only natural that you will become attached, emotionally, to your pup. If you didn’t, we would wonder what was wrong with you! The ability to give up a pup comes from the realization that your pup will be placed in a loving home to help an individual maintain an independent lifestyle.
Q. Do I need a fenced yard?
Yes, a fenced yard is essential. Pups need lots of exercise every day to ensure healthy development, as well as to keep them good and tired—and out of trouble! Please note that we do not allow puppy raisers to use electric fences.
Q. I work outside the home. Can I still be a Puppy Raiser?
Certainly! Many Puppy Raisers take their pups with them to work, and we encourage them to do so. Of course, you would need to OK this with your manager. Otherwise, Puppy Raisers must be home with the pup for the majority of the day.