Puppy raising clubs also need volunteers to help with tasks other than actually raising a pup, such as public relations, puppy sitting, event coordination, clerical work, etc. Once the dogs have been returned to our school, they spend approximately five months in formal guidework training with professional licensed instructors. Public graduation ceremonies mark the completion of this training, and puppy raisers are invited to officially present the Guide Dogs they had raised to their new partners. Guidance and Support Puppy raisers are all members of local puppy raising clubs. Clubs hold regular meetings where raisers gather to share ideas and information, and to work on puppy training techniques.
Clubs also host socialization outings to expand the puppies' experiences.
In addition, each raiser is provided with a comprehensive puppy raising manual and some supplies to assist them in the project. Puppy raising clubs are directed by one or more club leaders who receive ongoing specialized training as well as a reference manual from Guide Dogs. Professional staff advisors work closely with these leaders to provide direct communication, guidance and support from the Puppy Raising Department.