|
Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Responsibilities of puppy raisers
How long it takes to raise a guide dog
The breeds of dogs we raise
Where our puppies come from
Why we raise guide dog puppies (and yes, it is
hard to give them up)
Who to contact for more information
Learn more about Guide Dogs for the Blind
Q: What are the responsibilities
of a puppy raiser?
Puppy raisers are primarily responsible for raising and socializing
guide dog candidates. Puppy raisers take their pups to malls, grocery
stores, theaters, school, and work, to name a few. Raisers are taught
appropriate ways in which to expose their puppies to a wide range
of experiences.
Q:How long does it take to raise a guide
dog puppy?
Guide dog puppies are in a raiser's home for 14-18 months. Guide
Dogs for the Blind determines how long the puppy needs to be socialized
before returning to campus for formal training.
Q: What breeds of dogs does Guide Dogs
for the Blind use as guide dogs?
Guide Dogs for the Blind currently uses German Shepherds, Golden
Retrievers, black and yellow Labrador Retrievers, and a cross breed
of Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers.
Q: Where do these puppies come from?
Guide Dogs for the Blind maintains its own breeding stock out of
its campus located in San Rafael, California, and all of the breeding
stock is registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Q: Isn't it hard to give up a puppy once it's ready for its
formal training?
It is very hard to say goodbye to a puppy you have raised. Although
raisers know from the outset that the dog belongs to Guide Dogs
for the Blind and will be working to help someone else, puppy raisers
do become attached to their dogs. However, it is rewarding to see
your puppy graduate and see the impact that dog has on the life
of the person he is matched with. The freedom your dog provides
to his visually impaired partner makes it all worthwhile.
Q: I think I'm ready to raise a puppy. Who
should I contact?
To find out more about Contra Costa County Puppy Raising Club, please
call us at 925-689-4989 or contact us via
our online form. If you don't live in Contra Costa County, California,
you may contact Guide Dogs for the Blind for information about a
puppy raising club local to your area.
Q: How can I learn more about Guide Dogs
for the Blind?
Find out more about Guide Dogs for the Blind by visiting
their website or by calling 800-295-4050. Tours of the campus
are available.
|
