Canine Companion for Independence: Puppy Raising

Navajo IV, born 7/19/11 in California.  Being raised in Marseilles, IL.  Watch him grow mentally and physically with hopes of being a service dog for a handicapped person.

Exceptional Dogs for Exceptional People

Assistance dogs aren't just born, they're raised.

Every assistance dog starts as a puppy that needs a loving home.  For people with extra space in their hearts and homes, volunteer puppy raising is an incredible way to help people with disabilities live more independent lives.

Volunteer puppy raisers provide these specially-bred puppies a safe home, take yjem to obedience classes, serve up a healthy diet, provide socialization opportunities and give lots pf love.

Each hour spent caring for a CCI puppy is vital to its development as a future assistance dog.  The puppy program provides a unique opportunity for volunteers to assist CCI with its very importnat mission.

"I thought I could never raise a puppy because I couldn't give them up.  Now I'm raising my 14th puppy for CCI." - Peggy Jensen, volunteer puppy raiser

Puppies grow up to make a big difference.

The age of 2 to 18 months is an essential period in a dog's development.

By introducing the puppy to a variety of people, places and situations, puppy raisers help to prepare CCI puppies for a lifetime of great work.

Between the ages of 15 to 18 months, the puppy travels to Canine Companions training center, to receive 6 to 9 months of professional instruction and master over 40 commands.  The puppy then enters Team training to be matched with an adult or child with a disability.

BE A VOLUNTEER PUPPY RAISER

• Provide a safe environment for a puppy who will be the only dog under 1 year old in the home.
• Work closely with CCI monitoring the puppy's progress and submit monthly reports.
• Attend CCI approved obedience classes.
• Teach the puppy manners and basic commands.
• Provide financially for the puppy's food, medical and transportation expenses.
• Feed the puppy a diet recommended by CCI.
• Provide a kennel or crate for sleeping indoors.
• Provide the puppy with age-appropriate socialization opportunities such as public outings and medical appointments.
• Keep the puppy on a leash at all times unless in a securely fenced area.
• asupervise the young puppy throughout the day.
• Agree to return the puppy upon request.

Raising exceptional dogs; the journey of a hero,

Founded in 1975, Canine Companions for Independence (CCI), is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.

Birth to 2 months ~ Labrador and Golden Retriever puppies are born and cared for in the homes of volunteer breeder caretakers.

2 to 18 months ~ Puppies are raised by volunteer puppy raisers across the country.

18 to 24 months ~ Puppies receive 6 - 9 months of professional training at Canine Companions.

Adult Dog ~ Assistance dogs provide increased independence for people with disabilities.

Retirement ~ Retired dogs live the life of leisure with loving and responsible caretakers.

Connect with CCI

www.cci.org

North Central Regional Center

4989 State Route 37 East

Delaware, OH 43015-9682

740-833-3700