The Guide and Assistance Dogs in the training programs need good homes whilst in training.
During the puppy stage (8 weeks – approximately 12 months of age), the pups live with volunteer Puppy Raisers, who teach them basic puppy obedience and prepare them for life as a working dog.
At about 12 months of age, the puppy will be ready for Formal Training. During this stage, the pup will move on to live with a volunteer Bed & Breakfast Boarder.
Puppy Raisers look after an 8-week-old puppy, in their home, for a period of approx. 16 months. You will require a degree of physical fitness, which includes being able to negotiate steps, walk 3 – 5km per day and frequent bending and lifting (up to 20kg). We require the puppy to be exposed to different environments including public transport, shopping centres, steps/stairs, schools etc… This role is also available as a shared care/co-raising role for is perfect for FIFO workers or people that cannot commit to a full time Puppy Rasing role.
Bed & Breakfast Boarders look after an older puppy during early and advanced Formal Training. Dogs are required to be dropped off and picked up from Victoria Park each weekday for a period of 6 – 8 months. Drop-off is between 7.00am – 9.00am, pick-up is 3.00pm – 5.00pm. This role is best suited for full time workers.
Remote Boarders look after a young dog in our formal training program for a period of 6 – 8 months. Remote Boarders must be at home most of the time and have the dog available to be picked up by a Guide Dogs WA trainer 5 days per week, for a period of approximately 2 hours per day.
Temporary Boarders provide a short-term home to a puppy or a dog on an ad hoc basis, to cover events such as holidays, emergencies or illness.
What is Provided?
Guide Dogs WA provides everything the dog will need – including bedding, food, toys, collars, leads and veterinary costs.
