Those who love dogs and community service can combine their two passions into a new volunteer opportunity with Autism Dog Services.
The organization is looking for volunteers in Guelph to help provide a foster home for puppies training to become service dogs for individuals with autism.
Foster families, also called ‘puppy raisers’, will be provided with dog food, equipment and vet care by ADS.
A release from ASD said this is a good opportunity for those semi retired, retired, stay at home parents, young active families, individuals with flexible schedules, those who work from home or can bring a dog with them to the office.
“Puppies are being added on a regular basis,” said Dianne Nyeboer, puppy program manager, in the release. “We are in need of individuals or families that will house the pups, socialize them by taking them everywhere and attend ADS run training classes every two weeks.”
Vicky Spadoni, executive director of ASD, mentions they have puppies coming in for their training program in 2022.
The time commitment as a puppy raiser is 12 to 18 months before puppies are called in for advanced training.
When it’s time for the dogs to go to families, Spadoni said they will provide a good quality of life for residents in need and so much more.
“Yes, you need to give the dog back to ADS, but it is such a rewarding volunteer experience, especially when you attend graduation, and see your once pup now grown and supporting a child with autism and their family,” said Spadoni in the release.
ADS is southwestern Ontario’s leading provider of service dogs for children and families with autism or other related disorders. Service dogs are specially trained for and provide safety for the child, constant friendship and behavioural support.
Those who are interested in applying to be a puppy raiser can do so here. To learn more about volunteering, residents can contact ADS volunteer manager, Janine Brubacher, at [email protected].