What do I need to be a puppy raiser?
HHCD does not require puppy raisers to have any previous dog training experience. The techniques used are different than regular obedience classes for pets. Puppy raisers are those that are willing to learn and willing to spend time training and socializing the pup.
Does HHCD require a fenced in yard?
HHCD prefers that the puppy raisers have a fenced in yard, but it is not a requirement. HHCD pups in training are not allowed to run in yard that does not have a fence. The long leash would be used.
I work outside of the home, can I still be a puppy raiser?
The pup in training needs someone to take the dog out during the day to relieve itself and get exercise. All HHCD Facility Dogs are crate trained.
Are HHCD Facility Dogs in training treated the same as pets?
The HHCD Facility Dogs have different rules than pets. They are not allowed to be in the yard unattended and unsupervised at any time. The dogs are not allowed on furniture and not allowed any people food. The dogs are not allowed in the front seat of the car and are taught not to beg for food, toys or attention. The dogs are not allowed to jump on people or furniture and must learn to accept affection and touching under control.
Do HHCD Facility Dogs in training have the same access rights as service dogs?
No, the Facility Dogs are not given access rights of a service animal. The puppy raiser may be denied access or asked to leave a public place.
What are the age and other requirements for being a puppy raiser?
All puppy raisers must be 18 years old or older. Being a puppy raiser volunteer is a lot of physical work. A puppy raiser must be able to walk at least 2 miles a day and have good physical flexibility, balance, and mobility. The puppy raiser does a lot of bending, kneeling and getting up and down off of the floor. Time availability is also important because the dog needs time to train, socialize, exercise, and play.
How long would the dog in training be in my home?
The dog will live with you till they are between 18 months and 2 years old. The puppies start training at 8-10 weeks old. The same pup might not remain with you the duration of his or her training. HHCD reserves the right to rotate the dogs at least once during the training process for exposure to different environments.
Is it okay to have other dogs in my home?
Yes, we do accept puppy raisers that do have their own dog but the dogs do need to be well-behaved, obedient and fully vaccinated. The dogs in the home should be at least one year of age and dog friendly.
Can I take the HHCD Facility Dog in training to the dog park or doggy daycare?
HHCD does not permit the pups in training to go to dog parks or doggy daycare. We do not want the dogs to pick up bad habits from other dogs or risk injury. We also do not want to risk the dogs picking up a virus or parasite from other dogs.
I live in an apartment, may I still train a puppy?
HHCD prefers that the dogs live in a townhouse or house, but a condo or apartment is acceptable.
What are my expenses in training an HHCD Facility Dog?
Dog food, treats, toys, and ordinary veterinary expenses.
What happens when I go on vacation?
We will work to place your puppy with another puppy raiser. Depending on where you are going on vacation, we encourage you to take the puppy with you to expose the pup to a new learning experience.
How often will I need to attend class?
- Class is once a week for 1-1.5 hours.
- Each week the dog and puppy raiser attend class.
- Classes and lessons are held in Orland Park, IL
- During the week the puppy raiser works daily training, socializing, exercising, shaping and caring for the dog.
- As the dog advances in its training, the puppy raiser and the Facility Dog in training will attend field trips with the class and individually.
- The Facility Dogs are not pets but are working dogs that have an important role in the community.
- The Facility Dog in training will live with apprentice training. Structure in the home is important of the dog’s training.
- Once the dog has completed its training and its final evaluation, it will be placed as a HHCD Facility Dog to work in a church, school, funeral home, emergency center, first responder office, rehab center, courthouse or other facility.
- The Facility Dog will go out with its handlers to be the bridge for the handlers and ministry partners in the community.
Who owns the puppy in training?
Healing Hearts Comfort Dogs owns the puppy until he or she has completed training.
How long is the wait to begin training a Facility Dog?
HHCD does the best to provide puppy raisers with puppies within a timeframe that is accommodating to schedules, but timing of litter availability is a factor in this process.
What are the next steps if I am interested in being an puppy raiser?
- Complete online application
- Complete interview with trainer
- Attend orientation
- Complete background check
