Raise Future Service Dogs
Raise Future Service Dogs
We are seeking mission-driven volunteers ready to make a life-changing impact. The K9s For Warriors Puppy Raiser program gives community members a fulfilling experience of helping a puppy become a highly trained Service Dog to save a Veteran's life.
Why Raise a Puppy?
Raising a K9s For Warriors puppy is a richly rewarding experience that provides you with the opportunity to see an eight to twelve week old puppy grow into a well trained, lifesaving Service Dog. As part of our puppy raising program, you’ll become part of our K9s family — a community of people who share your passion for saving Veteran lives. You’ll have access to resources, guidance, and the camaraderie of like-minded individuals on this rewarding journey.
Our staff of puppy program trainers will be there every step of the way — from potty training and basic manners to the skills and behaviors that make a dog a hero.
By raising a puppy for a Veteran in need, you are empowering Warriors to get a new leash on life, like Marine Veteran Anthony, a 2023 Warrior graduate paired with his Service Dog Mando who was a part of K9s’ puppy raiser program.
“My demeanor has been so joyful. I’ve been smiling and just grateful since being paired with Mando,” says Anthony.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of Veterans in need.
Puppy Raiser
Puppy raising is one of our longer-term volunteer opportunities, with up to 14 months of commitment. K9s For Warriors provides hands-on training and all supplies needed to raise a puppy including, but not limited to crates, treats, food, medical care, etc.
Puppy Raiser Volunteer Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (Minors are accepted with a parent as a co-applicant *student volunteer hours available)
- A 14-month commitment without leaving the puppy unattended for more than a few hours
- Attending the Puppy Raiser Orientation with weekly training classes for the first six weeks (once per month thereafter)
- Live within 60 miles of K9s For Warriors National Headquarters in Ponte Vedra, FL
- Have regular access to a car
- Be willing to attend classes with trainers and fellow puppy raisers regularly out in the public for vital Service Dog training
- Must agree to return the dog upon request
Puppy Sitter
Only have a few days to help out? Become a puppy sitter! All you have to do is be on-call when our Service Dogs in training need a place to stay for a few days.
Puppy Sitter Volunteer Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (Minors are accepted with a parent as a co-applicant *student volunteer hours available)
- Live within 60 miles of K9s For Warriors National Headquarters in Ponte Vedra, FL
- Have regular access to a car
- Attend Puppy Raiser Orientation & human-only classes with K9s trainers as needed
- Provide a safe environment
- Must agree to return the dog upon request
- Provide age appropriate socialization (i.e. taking the pups to public places)
Real Volunteers. Real Stories.
