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Change Lives: Become a Future Leader Dog Puppy Raiser

Smiling woman sitting with a black Labrador wearing a harness labeled "LeaderDog.org". The woman is leaning into the dog smiling widely while holding up bunny fingers behind the dogs head.

Have you ever dreamed of making a lasting impact while sharing your life with an adorable puppy? As a Future Leader Dog puppy raiser, you can do exactly that. Every year, dedicated volunteers spend 12-15 months nurturing and training puppies that will go on to become invaluable guide dogs for individuals who are blind – dogs like Leader Dog (LD) Panger, who would go on to transform Shannon C.’s life in ways she never imagined.

“With LD Panger, I feel like I’m going to get my driver’s license back,” Shannon shares. “Being with a dog I feel so confident with and working as a team – I love that.” This powerful partnership began with a puppy raiser – someone who decided to make a difference by raising a Future Leader Dog — just like you could be.

Puppy raisers are truly the foundation of the Leader Dog program. Through daily dedication, these volunteers help shape playful puppies into confident, well-trained dogs ready to take on the important role of guiding someone who is blind. When Shannon says, “I’m excited to explore my town more and have somebody always by my side,” she’s describing the direct result of a puppy raiser’s commitment and care. The best part? No previous puppy-raising experience is required – Leader Dog provides training and support throughout your journey.

Flexible Options for Every Lifestyle

Understanding that every household is unique, Leader Dog offers several puppy raising opportunities to fit different situations and commitments. Each option contributes to the same goal: creating life-changing partnerships like Shannon and LD Panger’s.

Traditional One Household

Perfect for families, college students, active singles, retired couples and empty nesters, this traditional approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in the puppy raising experience. You’ll have the joy of watching your Future Leader Dog grow and develop day by day in your home, knowing that someday they might give someone the confidence to, as Shannon puts it, “continue making new connections when traveling to new areas.”

Co-Raising Partnership

If you’d like to share responsibility with another household, co-raising might be your ideal option. Primary and secondary raisers work together to coordinate schedules and care duties, making it perfect for those who want flexibility while still maintaining consistency in the puppy’s training. This teamwork mirrors the partnership that will eventually develop between the dog and their handler.

multiple black Labrador puppies resting on a blue dog bed with colorful chew toys, including a red bone and a green ring, in a cozy indoor setting. One puppy is at the center and staring at the camera alert.

Pass-Along Program

This innovative option splits the raising period between two volunteers – one for the first six months and another for the final six months. It’s an excellent choice for those who:

  • Can commit to only half the usual raising period
  • Have pet weight restrictions in their living situation
  • Prefer working with either younger or more mature puppies

Each raiser plays a crucial role in developing the skills that will help their puppy become someone’s trusted guide and companion.

Corporate Raising

Companies can now participate in this meaningful program, with employees raising puppies individually or in small teams. This option offers:

  • Enhanced employee engagement opportunities
  • Demonstrated corporate social responsibility
  • Valuable marketing and media exposure
  • The chance to contribute to life-changing partnerships

Campus Program

College students at approved campuses can participate through dedicated puppy clubs, with additional benefits including:

  • Structured support through assigned puppy counselors
  • All supplies, vet care and food provided by Leader Dog
  • Valuable winter training opportunities for building confidence and house manners

Join a Supportive Community

When you become a puppy raiser, you’re never alone. You’ll join a vibrant community of fellow raisers who share their experiences, offer advice and celebrate milestones together. Just as Shannon describes the confidence she feels with Leader Dog Panger by her side, you’ll have the support of the Leader Dog community throughout your journey.

Smiling woman sitting with a black Labrador wearing a harness labeled "LeaderDog.org".

More Than Just Puppy Raising

“I’m excited to get my life back,” Shannon says, and her words remind us of what’s truly at stake.

While raising a Future Leader Dog requires dedication and commitment, the rewards are immeasurable. Every puppy you raise has the potential to give someone their independence back, their confidence back, their life back. You’ll develop new skills, forge meaningful connections, and experience the profound satisfaction of knowing you’re helping create partnerships that change lives.

Ready to embark on this life-changing adventure? Consider becoming a Future Leader Dog puppy raiser today. Whether you choose to raise a puppy full-time or participate in one of the flexible raising options, you’ll be part of a mission that extends far beyond your own home – a mission to give people like Shannon the freedom and independence they deserve.

Contact Leader Dog today to learn more about how you can get started on your puppy-raising journey. https://www.leaderdog.org/volunteer/raise-a-puppy/