Could you help raise the next generation of life-changing assistance dogs?
It takes many caring people to help an assistance dog reach their potential. Our Puppy Training Volunteers are an important part of that journey, supporting young dogs as they learn, grow, and develop the confidence they need for their future as an assistance dog.
Julia’s enthusiasm for volunteering shines through as she talks honestly about the challenges, rewards and reasons she continues to support Canine Partners as a Puppy Training Volunteer. Read on to discover what it’s really like to help shape the future of an assistance dog in Julia’s own words.
“Hello, my name is Julia…
I am a Puppy Training Volunteer currently training Cherry, a 13-month-old Labrador Retriever cross. She is my third puppy, and, in just a few days, I’ll be welcoming my fourth!
So, what is it like doing this role?
I won’t lie – it can be challenging at times. One of the questions I was asked when I first started volunteering, and one I am still asked today, is: “How do you part with the puppy at the end?”
The honest answer is that it isn’t easy. I wouldn’t go as far as saying it breaks your heart, but it does bend it a little.
What you always must remember is that the puppy is not yours. They are destined to enhance a disabled person’s life in so many ways. My job is to love and care for the puppy, giving them the very best start in life possible, so that when it is time to say goodbye, I can be proud in the knowledge that I have done my very best.
I know I am sending a happy, confident and sociable dog on to complete the next stage of training, where they will hopefully go on to qualify as a Canine Partner.
Yes, there are tears, and of course you miss them. After all, they have been part of your life for around 14 months. But then your dedicated Canine Partners trainer arrives with your next puppy, and the journey begins all over again.
I can only describe the pride I have felt when ‘my’ puppies have succeeded with their Assistance Dog Training, as similar to when my children graduated from university!
Why do I do it?
It is hard work and a big commitment. You need patience, perseverance and plenty of praise – what I like to call the “three Ps”.
Time with your puppy is varied and rewarding. You’ll attend training classes every fortnight, receive home visits from your local trainer, and make regular trips on trains and buses into towns to visit places such as shops and cafés. All of this helps the puppy become confident, well-behaved, and comfortable in different environments.
Of course, there are also plenty of lovely walks along the way, which are good for both of you.
However, just when you think you’ve got everything under control, the puppy reaches adolescence! If you’ve ever had teenagers, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
Suddenly it’s “I can’t hear you” and “I don’t want to.”
But, just like their human counterparts, they come out the other side. Before long, they remember everything they’ve learned, and all your hard work is rewarded with a happy, willing puppy once again.
You’re never on your own
Throughout my volunteering journey, I have always had help and support from my trainer. They have been there whenever I’ve found things difficult or felt upset because something simply wasn’t clicking for me or the puppy.
After all, these dogs aren’t machines. They have personalities and feelings, and sometimes they just need help understanding what you’re asking them to do.
I have never felt that I was expected to take on a puppy and simply get on with it by myself.
Alongside regular visits from my trainer, Canine Partners provides webinars covering different aspects of caring for a puppy. They’re informative, practical and enjoyable, and I’ve picked up lots of useful tips over the years.
Even at weekends and bank holidays, there is always someone available to provide support and advice if needed. We also have local WhatsApp groups where volunteers can connect, share experiences, and support one another.
More than volunteering
Canine Partners is very much a community.
Through volunteering, I have met wonderful people and been privileged to go places I never imagined. I’ve been humbled when meeting and talking to people with their Canine Partners and hearing about the difference these amazing dogs make to their lives.
That is why I do this – knowing I have played a small part in enhancing someone’s independence and quality of life.
Being part of Canine Partners has also improved my own life immeasurably. After losing my husband suddenly, volunteering gave me purpose and something positive to focus on.
I have always lived with dogs and know how much comfort and companionship they can provide.
I can honestly say that becoming a Puppy Training Volunteer is one of the best things I have ever done in my life, and I am 75 years old.
I love training these puppies.
So please don’t think that you couldn’t do this. With the right mindset and the support available, you absolutely can.
Like all dogs, these puppies don’t ask for much – just love, cuddles, and the chance to be happy. But they are extra special puppies because they go on to do extraordinary things.
Please think about doing this role – you could help change someone’s life.”
Could you be our next Puppy Training Volunteer?
Julia’s story shows how a volunteer’s dedication today can change someone’s life tomorrow. By helping to raise and prepare young dogs for their future roles, Puppy Training Volunteers play a crucial part in creating the life-changing partnerships at the heart of Canine Partners’ work.
While the role requires commitment, patience and dedication, you will never be alone. Our experienced trainers, volunteer community, and support network will be there every step of the way.
Right now, we urgently need more Puppy Training Volunteers to help raise the next generation of life-changing assistance dogs.
If you’ve ever thought about making a difference, enjoy spending time with dogs and can provide a puppy with a loving home and positive experiences, we’d love to hear from you.