Working with wonderful woofers, the sort of furry joy-bringers that make a difference in people’s lives?
Pitching in with a pack of incredible pups can make a lasting impression on a person’s mind, outlook, and, for sure, their spirit, too.
And that chance to lend a hand, your time, some empathy and understanding, and a whole lot of love is coming up, on Dec. 11, thanks to a “puppy raiser” training session with Guide Dogs of America.
This is a virtual happening, via Zoom, and it will be the final online information event before in-person gatherings return to the Sylmar campus in 2022.
Guide Dogs of American pairs trained pups with “… individuals who are blind/visually impaired and service dogs for veterans and children with autism,” with dogs also being placed in “hospitals, schools, and courtrooms.”
“Our highly skilled canines become trusted companions that increase people’s confidence, mobility, and independence. All programs and services, including transportation, personalized training, room/board, and postgraduate support, are provided at no cost to the recipient,” states the organization on its site.
And helping the organization achieve its mission?
Puppy raisers, those dedicated volunteers who are among some of the first people a young, in-training dog gets to know, trust, and adore.
If you choose to pursue volunteering for this life-changing role, there’ll be a few initial considerations, as well as matters you’ll want to mull.
One consideration? Where you reside. You and the puppy in your care will need to call upon the Sylmar campus on occasion, and attendance at both monthly puppy group meetings and “puppy kindergarten classes” is required.
The Dec. 11 information session will address what you can expect from meetings and classes, as well as what at-home life will be like with the future guide dog you’re helping to raise.
Questions covered include the breeds and types of puppies that volunteers raise, what can be expected in terms of puppy proofing and such, what out-of-pocket expenses might look like, and how long the puppy will live in your home.
And, yes: “(W)hat happens when the dogs ‘go off to college’ to begin formal training” is also a central topic of the session, as well as how dogs are paired with their forever people once they’ve graduated.
The word straight from Sylmar? “We ALWAYS need puppy raisers,” says Stephanie Colman, the coordinator of the puppy program.
So even if you can’t join the December Zoom, you can plan to attend an in-person information session on the Guide Dogs of America campus, in early 2022.
Could this be your new year’s resolution?
An Emotional Anniversary: The First Birthday of an Aging Dog After Nearly a Decade
Life’s most poignant moments typically revolve across the love and companionship we share with our furry associates. On this heartfelt story, we rejoice the primary birthday of an ageing dog who has been a trustworthy companion for almost a decade. As we delve into this story, be ready for tears, laughter, and an entire lot of affection.
For almost ten years, this ageing dog has been a relentless presence of their proprietor’s life. By thick and skinny, the dog has provided unwavering loyalty and unconditional love.
Because the dog reaches their first birthday of the brand new decade, it’s a momentous event. Their proprietor decides to commemorate the day with a particular celebration, absolutely conscious that point is valuable.
The bond between the ageing dog and their proprietor is in contrast to another. It’s a connection solid via shared experiences, numerous walks, infinite video games of fetch, and moments of silent understanding.
The dog’s birthday celebration is a day stuffed with love and pampering. There are home made treats, a brand new toy, and loads of snuggles. The ageing pup could also be slowing down, however their spirit and enthusiasm for all times shine brightly.
Because the day unfolds, there are tears of pleasure and moments of reflection. The proprietor is deeply moved by the dog’s resilience, loyalty, and the reminder that even within the face of ageing, love stays unchanged.
The primary birthday of the brand new decade serves as a poignant reminder of the reward of time. It prompts the proprietor to cherish each second with their ageing companion and to proceed creating lovely reminiscences collectively.
The story of this ageing dog’s first birthday is a touching reminder of the profound classes our four-legged associates educate us. They present us the facility of affection, loyalty, and the great thing about rising previous collectively.
The primary birthday of an ageing dog after almost a decade is a celebration that tugs on the heartstrings and highlights the enduring bond between people and their furry companions. It’s a second to replicate on the worth of time, the teachings our pets educate us, and the profound impression they’ve on our lives. As we honor this big day, could all of us be impressed to cherish the love and loyalty of our pets, whether or not they’re younger or ageing gracefully.
Send birthday wishes to the dog.
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