Working with wonderful woofers, the sort of furry joy-bringers that make a difference in people’s lives?
Pitching in with a pack of incredible pups can make a lasting impression on a person’s mind, outlook, and, for sure, their spirit, too.
And that chance to lend a hand, your time, some empathy and understanding, and a whole lot of love is coming up, on Dec. 11, thanks to a “puppy raiser” training session with Guide Dogs of America.
This is a virtual happening, via Zoom, and it will be the final online information event before in-person gatherings return to the Sylmar campus in 2022.
Guide Dogs of American pairs trained pups with “… individuals who are blind/visually impaired and service dogs for veterans and children with autism,” with dogs also being placed in “hospitals, schools, and courtrooms.”
“Our highly skilled canines become trusted companions that increase people’s confidence, mobility, and independence. All programs and services, including transportation, personalized training, room/board, and postgraduate support, are provided at no cost to the recipient,” states the organization on its site.
And helping the organization achieve its mission?
Puppy raisers, those dedicated volunteers who are among some of the first people a young, in-training dog gets to know, trust, and adore.
If you choose to pursue volunteering for this life-changing role, there’ll be a few initial considerations, as well as matters you’ll want to mull.
One consideration? Where you reside. You and the puppy in your care will need to call upon the Sylmar campus on occasion, and attendance at both monthly puppy group meetings and “puppy kindergarten classes” is required.
The Dec. 11 information session will address what you can expect from meetings and classes, as well as what at-home life will be like with the future guide dog you’re helping to raise.
Questions covered include the breeds and types of puppies that volunteers raise, what can be expected in terms of puppy proofing and such, what out-of-pocket expenses might look like, and how long the puppy will live in your home.
And, yes: “(W)hat happens when the dogs ‘go off to college’ to begin formal training” is also a central topic of the session, as well as how dogs are paired with their forever people once they’ve graduated.
The word straight from Sylmar? “We ALWAYS need puppy raisers,” says Stephanie Colman, the coordinator of the puppy program.
So even if you can’t join the December Zoom, you can plan to attend an in-person information session on the Guide Dogs of America campus, in early 2022.
Could this be your new year’s resolution?
“The Heartwarming Tale of a Young Hero: 7-Year-Old Rescues Homeless Dog, Proving the Miracles of Empathy”
A torrential rainstorm unleashed its fury upon the town, drenching everything in its path. The relentless rain seemed to have caught everyone off guard, as people hurriedly sought shelter and protection from the elements. Amidst the chaos, a seven-year-old boy named Ethan found himself caught in the downpour, with his loyal canine companion, Max, by his side.
With tears streaming down his face, Ethan clung tightly to Max, refusing to abandon him in this moment of adversity. The little boy’s determination was evident as he navigated through the flooded streets, searching desperately for a safe haven. Passersby looked on, their hearts swelling with a mix of concern and admiration for the brave young boy.
Ethan’s devotion to Max was unwavering, and he wouldn’t let the heavy rain deter him from finding a place of refuge. Despite his small stature and the weight of the dog in his arms, Ethan pressed forward, his only goal to keep Max safe and dry. The sight of this small figure carrying his furry friend became a poignant symbol of love and compassion.
Word of Ethan’s brave act quickly spread throughout the community, and before long, a crowd had gathered to witness the inspiring scene. Strangers were moved to tears by the profound bond between a young boy and his loyal companion. The image of Ethan’s determination and selflessness resonated deeply with everyone who witnessed it, reminding them of the power of love and the importance of standing by those we care about, even in the face of adversity.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Ethan spotted a small sheltered area beneath a nearby tree. With renewed hope, he made his way towards it, shielding Max from the relentless rain as best as he could. The crowd watched with bated breath, their hearts pounding in unison, as the boy and his dog reached the shelter.
The collective sigh of relief that escaped from the onlookers was palpable as Ethan and Max found respite from the storm. The crowd erupted in applause, their tears mingling with the rain on their faces. In that moment, the bravery and love displayed by a seven-year-old boy had touched the souls of many.
News of Ethan’s remarkable act spread beyond the local community, reaching far and wide. The story of a young boy who carried his dog through a torrential rainstorm became a symbol of resilience, compassion, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. Ethan’s act of selflessness served as a reminder to all that even in the darkest of times, acts of love and kindness have the power to bring hope and unite people in a shared sense of humanity.
Conclusion: The story of the seven-year-old boy who carried his dog through a fierce rainstorm left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it. It served as a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of love and the extraordinary lengths we are willing to go to protect those we cherish. Ethan’s unwavering determination and selflessness became an inspiration to many, reminding us all to hold on to compassion, even in the face of life’s harshest storms.
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