Requirements & Support

What are the requirements to puppy raise?

• There should be no more than two dogs in the home. All dogs should be over 12 months old, neutered/spayed, up to date on all vaccinations, and well-behaved around other dogs.

• The puppy must not be left alone for more than four hours.

• You have a fully enclosed garden with walls or fences minimum 5ft high.

• Puppy will live inside, day and night.

• Children in the home must be over five years of age.

• You must be 18 years or older, but the whole family can get involved.

How do we support our Puppy Raisers?

We provide training in public environments and online for Puppy Raisers to aid their knowledge and assist them with dog handling skills.

Our Puppy Raising Supervisors work closely with each Puppy Raiser, keeping in regular contact to support and monitor the puppy’s progress – all to enable our volunteer Puppy Raiser to successfully socialise their puppy.

All veterinary fees and feeding costs are covered by Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. You will receive a crate, leads etc. and when you go on holidays we’ll find a volunteer Temporary Boarder for your pup.

"Puppy-raising was part of family life growing up. We all got involved, helping each pup to socialise, learn the basics of obedience, and experience everyday activities such as travelling on buses, trains, and even going to some of my games."

Jack Crowley, Munster Rugby & IGDB Ambassador