The South African Guide-Dogs Association (Sagda), based in Bryanston, is calling on all animal lovers to open their hearts and homes to the organisation’s pups in training.
Called ‘puppy raisers’, selected volunteers have the enviable job of raising puppies to eventually go into service as guide dogs, and are responsible for training them basic obedience skills and accustoming them to various social settings. This is all done under supervision, and the training spans one year, after which the dogs are returned to Sagda for placement.
Christine Voigt has helped raise and train over 10 dogs, and is extremely proud of all of them. “It is difficult to see the dogs go after 12 months. They become a part of your family. They go where you go, sleep when you sleep, and a bond forms between you and the dog, but I am always extremely proud when they go into service, helping people live a better life.”
Puppy-raising supervisor, Monica Steen, said anyone with time to spare, and a love for dogs can apply to become a puppy raiser. “We are looking for animal lovers who have dogs of their own.
“To become a puppy raiser means attending training sessions during the week, so you must have a flexible schedule. It is a very fulfilling job and your hard work will result in a person in need living a better life.”
The South African Guide-Dogs Association covers the veterinary costs incurred for pups in training, in addition to vaccinations, deworming and micro-chipping. When puppy raisers go away on holiday or bitches are in season, the association will board the pups in their boarding kennel. Food for the pups is also sponsored.
Details: www.guidedog.org.za; 011 705 3512.
