Alternative Puppy Raising Models

There are valuable benefits of raising a puppy within a Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) puppy club, including support and camaraderie. We recognize, however, that participating in a club is not always possible or preferred. With approval from a staff puppy raising field manager (PFM), some volunteers may raise or co-raise a puppy by participating in an alternative raising model.

Hybrid Puppy Raising 
Hybrid puppy raising groups are formed in cohorts by PFMs in a specific geographic area on a rotating basis. Hybrid puppy raisers attend both virtual and in-person workshops based on puppy age. Hybrid raisers can be experienced or new to the GDB program, and they work directly with their PFM (as opposed to a puppy club leader). Hybrid puppy raisers in the same cohort begin raising their puppies at the same time, so each group has puppies of approximately the same age. Raisers in the cohort participate in Walk & Talks and in-person workshops together. Successful hybrid raisers:

• Understand, support, and follow GDB’s Values and Behaviors, the Puppy Raising Guiding Principles, and all policies and procedures.
• Maintain a solid understanding of GDB protocols, with a self-starter attitude toward learning and applying new skills as techniques evolve.
• Are proactive in reporting and communicating with their PFM.
• Are willing and able to utilize virtual technology for support and communication with their PFM (may include virtual meetings, check-ins, submitting progress videos, etc.).
• Agree to attend all hybrid group activities, including Walk & Talks and in-person workshops.

Satellite Puppy Raising
Satellite puppy raisers generally have previous experience raising GDB puppies. They must be located within 6 hours driving distance of a PFM or puppy club. Satellite puppy raisers work directly with their PFM and do not attend club activities or receive support from puppy sitting volunteers. Successful satellite raisers:

• Understand, support, and follow GDB’s Values and Behaviors, the Puppy Raising Guiding Principles, and all policies and procedures.
• Maintain a solid understanding of GDB protocols, with a self-starter attitude towards learning and applying new skills as techniques evolve.
• Live within three hours driving distance of emergency veterinary care.
• Travel at their own expense to meet with their PFM for any necessary one-on-one meetings and scheduled Walk & Talks.
• Are proactive in reporting and communicating with their PFM.
• Are willing and able to utilize virtual technology for support and communication with their PFM (may include virtual meetings, Walk & Talks, submitting progress videos, etc.).
• Additional agreements may apply based on individual circumstances.