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Help with the next generation of service dogs as a Canine Caretaker!

Canine Companions for Independence
Hybrid, Volunteer must be in California, US
Apply

    • Details

    Start Date:
    August 25, 2025
    Available Times:
    Weekdays (daytime, evenings), Weekends (daytime, evenings)
    Commitment Details:
    This is an on-going opportunity while the dog is actively in our breeding program.
    Recurrence:
    Recurring
    Volunteers Needed:
    25
    Cause Areas:
    Children & Youth, Civic Engagement, Disability, Family, Veterans
    Benefits:
    Training Provided
    Good For:
    Teens, Age 55+
    Participation Requirements:
    Driver’s License, Attend Orientation
    Other Requirements:
    Must be able to house a dog safely in your home.

    Description

    Help with the next generation of service dogs as a Canine Caretaker!

    If you're in Northern California, imagine bringing a loving dog into your home, who will contribute to the next generation of service dogs destined to help people with disabilities gain greater independence! By caring for a carefully selected Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever or cross in our breeding program, you'll play a vital role in helping the next generation of future service dogs to transform lives.

    What’s in it for you?

    • A Heartfelt Experience: Surround yourself with unconditional love and contribute to a meaningful mission.
    • An Incredible Community: Collaborate with our dedicated veterinary, breeding and canine care teams, and connect with other passionate volunteers who’ll support you along the way. Receive comprehensive training and support, no matter how long you help out in the journey.
    • Wagging tails & furry love: Once retired, the dog will be spayed or neutered and offered to you as a cherished pet.

    How do you know if it's a match?

    • Location: Reside within a reasonable distance from our headquarters in Northern California (Santa Rosa), including areas up to Reno, Nevada, and down to Central California.
    • Teamwork: Open to working closely with our expert staff and fellow volunteers.
    • Responsibilities:
      • Health & Wellness: Provide a healthy diet and regular exercise for the breeder dog.
      • Regular Visits: Bring the breeder dog to our HQ in Santa Rosa for (this means minimal vet bills):
        • Males: Breeding dates and vet appointments
        • Females: Heat cycles, and potentially assist with whelping and delivery following our guidelines. Option to whelp at our Canine Health & Wellness Center.
    • Guidance: Follow Canine Companions guidelines and protocols, with options to work alongside experienced volunteers.
    • Training & Meetings: Attend required training sessions and meetings (virtual options available).

    Discover how you can be a part of this heartwarming journey by joining an upcoming canine caretaker info session or by reaching out to us today.

    If you're in Northern California, imagine bringing a loving dog into your home, who will contribute to the next generation of service dogs destined to help people with disabilities gain greater independence! By caring for a carefully selected Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever or cross in our breeding program, you'll play a vital role in helping the next generation of future service dogs to transform lives.

    What’s in it for you?

    • A Heartfelt Experience: Surround yourself with unconditional love and contribute to a meaningful mission.
    • An Incredible Community: Collaborate with our dedicated veterinary, breeding and canine care teams, and connect with other passionate volunteers who’ll support you along the way. Receive comprehensive training and support, no matter how long you help out in the journey.
    • Wagging tails & furry love: Once retired, the dog will be spayed or neutered and offered to you as a cherished pet.

    How do you know if it's a match?

    • Location…

    Location

    Hybrid
    Volunteer must be in California, US
    Associated Location

    Canine Companions Headquarters

    Santa Rosa, CA, USA

    How to Apply

    Please note this is an opportunity for those within 100 miles of Santa Rosa, CA.

    To learn more about this opportunity or to sign up for a virtual information session, please email breedingprogram@canine.org.

    You can also learn more & fill out an application by visiting our Breeder Caretaker FAQ page:

    https://canine.org/get-involved/ways-to-volunteer/become-a-volunteer-breeder-caretaker/

    Please note this is an opportunity for those within 100 miles of Santa Rosa, CA.

    To learn more about this opportunity or to sign up for a virtual information session, please email…

    Illustration

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