At Canine Companions for Independence, our pups have a very special destiny - to assist a person with a disability in leading a more fulfilling and independent life. For these puppies to achieve their potential, they must grow up in a loving environment and be exposed to a variety of stimulating experiences. That is why we need you! The Puppy Raising program provides a unique opportunity for volunteers to help create a meaningful change in someone’s life.

The Basics 

CCI puppies are raised by volunteers from 8 weeks of age until they are about 13 to 18 months old. It is the Puppy Raiser's responsibility to provide  house training, teach basic obedience skills, attend puppy training classes, and provide basic necessities such as food, shelter, veterinary care, discipline and, of course, lots of love and attention! Many Puppy Raisers bring their puppies with them to work, to do grocery shopping, or even make a doctor’s visit. This helps the dog become accustomed to various activities such as riding in a car, waiting patiently under a desk, or staying calm in an active environment.

Advanced Training      

Puppy Raisers ensure that puppies are socialized and well mannered. At approximately 16 months, the puppies are returned to the training center for Advanced Training, which lasts six to nine months. When the dogs are fully prepared, trainers carefully match them with  prospective recipients during Team Training.

Graduation    

At Graduation, Puppy Raisers have the opportunity to meet the graduate that will receive the puppy they've raised and pass the leash to a new graduate. 

Making a Difference

There are about 900 Puppy Raisers in the United States. Every rewarding hour spent training and playing with a puppy lays the foundation for a stable, dependable, trustworthy companion for a person with a disability.

CCI puppy raisers agree to the following:

• Puppy must live indoors, and sleep in a crate

• Young puppies must be supervised throughout the day

• Puppy raiser is required to attend approved puppy training classes

• Puppy raiser family shall pay veterinary, feeding and transportation costs to and from the CCI facility

• Puppy is to be fed according to CCI specifications

• Puppy shall live with puppy raiser until 13-18 months of age

• Visits to puppy raiser family’s residence by CCI representative may occur periodically with reasonable prior notice given

• Family/raiser agrees to return puppy upon request

• Should boarding become necessary, the CCI puppy must be housed in an approved kennel

• Puppy raiser’s age requirements shall be determined by CCI representative. Puppy raisers under the age of 18 need a parent or guardian to participate as co-puppy raisers

• The CCI puppy should be the only young puppy (12 months and under) in the household