Most puppy raising programs have evaluation stages built in, but medical and other problems can develop that may make a puppy unsuitable for guide work. Puppy raisers are responsible for feeding the pup a well balanced diet, grooming it daily and making sure the pup is taken to the veterinarian when required. The puppy raiser takes the pup on daily walks to ensure it maintains its fitness and health, and also to increase the pup's socialization. This is so it learns to feel comfortable in a wide range of environments with lots of different sights, sounds and scents. The ultimate goal of the puppy raising program is to encourage the development of pups so that they will one day become successful Seeing Eye or Guide Dogs.
Some dogs make wonderful family pets.
Schools have long waiting lists to adopt career change dogs as they are already trained with basic house manners and are generally good dogs. Some programs hold a graduation ceremony during which the raiser passes the dog on to its new master. Other programs give basic information about the new handler. During its initial guide training, most schools provide updates on the puppy and some information when it is about to be placed with a blind person. In many programs if the blind person cannot keep the dog or find a home for it, the dog may be returned to the school.