Become a Puppy Parent

Puppy Parents raise our service dogs for approximately two years before the dogs graduate and are placed with a forever Veteran. Each puppy goes home with their Puppy Parent between the age of 8-12 weeks. To be considered for this important task, you must be willing and able to provide the following support and training for the WCC service dog in training:

• Provide a stable, safe, consistent and loving environment
• Provide the dog with access to new places, new people and new experiences
• Supervise the dog throughout the day
• Teach the dog manners and basic commands
• Keep the dog on a leash at all times or supervised in a securely fenced area
• Closely monitor the dog’s progress and submit monthly reports
• Attend weekly training classes, including social outings that build skills and confidence
• Provide the dog with age-appropriate socialization opportunities
• Ensure that the WCC dog is the only dog under the age of one in your home
• Agree to return the dog upon request
• Transport the dog to the veterinarian when necessary
• Depending on program location, you may be required to drop off/pick up the dog at the training office during the work week.

*Some locations require the puppy parent to take the service dog in training to work.

Requirements

• Main handler must be 18+ years of age
• Dogs in the household must be well-mannered, older than one year of age, fully vaccinated and be well cared for
• Provide documentation and reporting when required
• Participate in ongoing communications with WCC staff

If it seems like a major commitment, it is — but it is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever undertake. For an inside look at the life of a puppy parent, please watch both of these videos, one featuring WCC’s Donnie and the other featuring WCC’s Stacy.

Warrior Canine Connection Covers

• The cost of approved veterinary visits
• Medications (including monthly Heartgard and Nexgard)
• Basic equipment (leash, harness, vest and crate)
• Dog Food

Puppy Parent Covers

• Toys
• Replacement items
• Transportation costs; we cannot reimburse for mileage or gas at this time
• Treats

Application Process

• The first step in the process is to complete and submit a volunteer application
• You will be contacted for an interview with WCC staff
  • The interview will include insight into our training processes and style. You will also gain knowledge of the dedication required to raise one of our future service dogs.
• Attend Basic Training classes
• Be patient until a dog becomes available
• Consider becoming a Puppy Sitter in the interim

Questions? Contact puppyparent@warriorcanineconnection.org