Volunteer Puppy Raiser
Puppy raisers do more than open their homes—they open their hearts. Our volunteer puppy raisers share their worlds with curious pups and raise hope for the people who need our dogs. Take a glimpse into the magical journey of puppy raising where destinies begin and love grows.
Your mission as a puppy raiser is simple.
Take home a cuddly bundle of joy and bring back a happy, socialized, well-mannered dog. That’s the magic of making a difference. We’ll support your puppy-raising adventure from start to finish—no matter where you live in the United States.

Puppy Raiser Info Session
Have you considered becoming a volunteer puppy raiser?
Join us for a puppy raising info session! Learn about the responsibilities of raising a future life-changing guide or service dog, the training and support we provide, and what to expect throughout the journey.
This event is the perfect opportunity to ask questions and decide if puppy raising is the right fit for you.
When: Friday, October 16, 2026 | 2:00-3:30 PM
Where: 4210 77th St East, Palmetto, FL 34221
Can’t make it? Stay tuned for more puppy raising events soon!
Raise a Puppy, Change a Life.
The joys of puppy raising are endless, but the time commitment doesn’t have to be. Become a puppy raiser for 3, 6, or 12 months. Bring home a pup as young as 8 weeks—and choose the timeline that fits your life. With the support of fellow raisers near and far, you’ll teach, guide, and open your heart as they begin the journey they were born for.
- Raise solo: You got this! Raise a puppy.
- Co-raise: Pick your co-raiser, or we can pair you with someone to share the joy.
- Team raise: Coworkers, classmates, and neighbors—form your team!
Your Commitment
Puppy raising is a rewarding responsibility, and we ask our raisers to:
- Be 18 years or older. Applicants ages 15–17 may apply if an adult in their household co-signs the application and raises alongside them.
- Be able to provide love and daily essentials, including food, toys, and equipment for the duration of puppy raising.
- Be prepared to welcome a puppy into your home within 2–4 months.
- Attend two club meetings each month, either in person or virtually depending on your assigned puppy club.
- Be committed to picking up and returning your puppy to our campus. We can arrange support with longer-distance transportation for puppy pick-up when needed.
- Be comfortable using video conferencing for virtual check-ins when needed.
- Stay engaged with program emails, updates, and communications.
- Be physically able to manage a large-breed dog safely.
- Have a safe, supportive home where puppy raising is permitted by your housing community and supported by everyone in your household.
Our Commitment
You are not alone — we’re here to support you every step of the way! As a Dogs Inc puppy raiser, you’ll receive:
- A starter kit with essentials such as a puppy leash and collar, initial food, an approved toy, and more.
- 100% coverage of pre-approved veterinary costs, along with monthly heartworm and parasite preventatives.
- A 6-week Puppy Kindergarten course after placement, focused on foundational skills and providing regular touchpoints as you begin your journey.
- Monthly in-person or virtual classes throughout your time raising the puppy.
- In-person or virtual support from a certified Dogs Inc Regional Manager to help ensure your puppy is making appropriate progress.
- Opportunities through local clubs for group outings and real-world socialization, including visits to hardware stores, shopping centers, airports, and more.
Ready to Get Started?
“Watching a puppy you raised go on to guide a person with visual impairments, giving them the independence they want, need, and deserve, is an awesome experience.”
— John Bauer, puppy raiser, club leader, donor, and longtime friend of Dogs Inc
Got questions? Find more answers here.
Puppy Raisers Q&A
What breeds do you use for your dogs?
Can I raise a puppy if I already have dogs?
What are the steps of the puppy raiser application process?
How long does the puppy raiser application process take?
Got questions? Find more answers here.
What are the steps of the puppy raiser application process?