Service Puppy Raisers/Sitters Needed!

Help raise a hero! The National Institute of Canine Service and Training is seeking dedicated volunteers to help raise or puppy sit service dogs-in-training. These dogs will go on to provide life-saving medical alert support to individuals with diabetes and other disabilities.

Whether you're available for a weekend or a year, we have a role for you. Choose the commitment level that fits your lifestyle:

• Puppy Sitters
• Provide short-term care (a few days to a few weeks) when full-time raisers are away. Perfect for dog lovers with less consistent availability.
• Co-Raisers
• Share the responsibility of raising a puppy 50% of the time (minimum of two weeks per month). Great for those who want regular involvement but can’t commit full-time.
• Puppy Raisers
• Take the lead in raising a service dog candidate full-time during its training period. Puppy sitters and co-raisers are here to support you when you're away.

Responsibilities:

• Attend twice-monthly puppy training meetings
• Complete required volunteer and handling training
• Take the puppy on 3+ age-appropriate public access outings per week when the puppy is in your care
• Provide daily attention, love, and structured training

Requirements:

• No prior dog handling knowledge required!
• Ability to attend meetings and training in the Concord area
• Commitment to consistent and compassionate dog care
• A safe and stable home environment
• Time and flexibility to provide structured care and training

Why Volunteer?

• Be part of a community changing lives through service dogs
• Learn positive dog training techniques
• Enjoy the unique joy of shaping a puppy’s future
• Know that your time and care helps someone gain independence and safety

Join us in preparing these pups to become life-saving companions for people with disabilities. Whether you're in it for the short haul or long run, you’ll make a lasting difference.

Click "I Want to Help!" to learn more and get started.

Watch our video to learn more: Our Medical Alert Service Dogs Save Lives