Puppy Raising

Foster a Puppy. Change a Life.

Give a puppy the best start — and give someone else a whole new future.

Fostering a puppy is a unique and rewarding way to make a real difference. As a Puppy Raiser, you'll welcome one of our puppies into your home and help guide them through the early stages of training — building the foundation for their future as a Guide, Assistance, or Community Dog.

With your care and commitment, that puppy could one day bring freedom and independence to someone who is blind or vision impaired or provide a life-changing support to a family of a child with autism.

And don’t worry — you’ll never be on your own.

"The dedication of my Guide Dog's Puppy Raiser has given me the gift of being able to walk my daughter to school. That's priceless.” - Guide Dog owner

We're With You Every Step of the Way

Raising a puppy is hugely rewarding, but we know it’s a big commitment, and that’s why you’ll be fully supported every step of the way by our puppy raising team.

You’ll receive:

• Full training and ongoing guidance from your local Puppy Raising Supervisor
• All food, veterinary care, and essential equipment is provided by us
• 24/7 support when you need it
• Access to our friendly community of Puppy Raisers nearby to connect and share the journey with you.

Whether this is your first puppy or your fifth, you’ll have everything you need to succeed — and we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Who can be a Puppy Raiser?

Our Puppy Raisers come from all walks of life:

• Working from home or in a hybrid job
• Retired and looking for purpose
• Raising a family with children or pets at home

No prior dog training experience is needed — just your time, love, and commitment.

You’ll care for a puppy from 9 weeks old to about 14 months, helping them learn basic obedience, socialisation, and how to behave in public spaces — all under our expert guidance and support.

"You meet so many people through the organisation and walking with the dog. You have the fun and joy of a puppy in the house, but you know when you say goodbye that someone who needs a dog will be so happy to get them. It really gives your life purpose.” Zita O'Brien, Puppy Raiser

Why It Matters

By fostering just one puppy, you're changing many lives:

• The life of the dog you help nurture, and
• The life of the person or family who will one day rely on them for independence and support.

Your life will change too, for the better! You’ll gain:

• The joy of seeing a puppy grow, learn and thrive
• A new set of dog-handling skills
• A deep sense of purpose and community connection