Our Organization trains and places Service Dogs for different needs, including Autism Assistance, Mobility Assistance, Seizure Response and Veteran PTSD/TBI Assistance. We are seeking Puppy Raisers for periods of 6 months to 18 months. Puppy Raisers are required to meet frequently with the Head Trainer for obedience training and socialization exposure training. When the puppy is returned he/she will undergo training for specific tasks based on the job he/she will be placed for. The Organization provides Vet care (to our approved Vet) while with the Raiser; the Raiser provides a safe place to live, love, and appropriate training/socialization opportunities for the Puppy as well as approved food, treats and other supplies. The first step for becoming a Raiser is to complete a Raiser Application. After that, we will arrange a meeting in person to review your application and conduct a home check. Potential Raisers are required to meet with us at least 3 times for training, or more if necessary, before placement with a puppy or dog. Raising a puppy is an extremely rewarding experience; we have high standards of care and training for our Dogs so we seek Raisers with a commitment to the same! This project involves four major areas of responsibility: 1. Providing for the care and well-being of a Topaz Canine Services Puppy/Dog: 1. A safe indoor home environment 2. Food and other supplies required for puppy raising, such as a crate, and approved toys. 3. Healthcare – provided for by the Organization. The puppy is required to see our approved Vet. The puppy must be current on flea/tick and heartworm prevention at all times. 4. Enrollment and participation in Topaz Canine Services or other approved obedience classes for the duration of the raising period. Puppy Raisers are also required to submit a progress report each month for the duration of the project as well as report behavioral or medical problems to the Head Trainer promptly. 2. Socialization, which involves systematically exposing the puppy to a variety of environmental and situational experiences. Puppy Raisers agree to follow Topaz Canine Services approved socialization guidelines and handling techniques when working with the puppy. 3. Transportation to mandatory meetings 2 – 3 times per month throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. REQUIREMENTS Willingness and ability to commit to the outlined responsibilities; Puppy Raisers must have the ability to safely house and care for a puppy from eight weeks of age until the required turn-in date (approximately 6-18 months). Volunteer puppy raisers must be willing and able to devote time each day to oversee the complete care of the puppy: feeding, grooming, socialization, and exercise as recommended by Topaz Canine Services. This is a non-paid position; however routine medical expenses at an approved vet will be covered by the organization. TRAINING PROVIDED Raisers are required to meet with the Head Trainer 2-3 times per month in various locations around the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex for obedience and socialization practice with the Puppy/Dog. REFERENCE MATERIALS Puppy Raiser manual and training documentation.
