The Patriot K9s Puppy Raiser Program is a volunteer opportunity to help raise and develop future service dogs for veterans. Puppy raisers provide a loving home and daily structure for a puppy or young dog, building the foundation they need to succeed as a service dog.
After this phase, the dog returns to Patriot K9s for advanced training and eventual placement with a veteran.
What Do Puppy Raisers Do?
Puppy raisers focus on foundation development, not advanced service training.
Responsibilities include:
- Daily care (feeding, grooming, exercise)
- Socialization in real world environments
- Reinforcing basic obedience
- Teaching house manners and calm behavior
- Attending training classes
You will help the puppy become:
Confident
Well behaved
Comfortable in public
Ready for advanced training
Who is a Good Fit?
We are looking for individuals or families who:
- Can commit to consistent training and care
- Have reliable transportation
- Live within 30 mi of Wausau facility
- Do not have other dogs in the home
- Want to make a real impact
This can be emotionally challenging, but it is also incredibly meaningful.
Why It Matters
Every service dog starts somewhere.
The work you do as a puppy raiser directly impacts a veteran’s independence, safety, and quality of life.
You are not just raising a puppy;
You are building a future service dog.
