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?
Kindness Beyond Borders: The Uplifting Saga of a Dog’s Heroic Rescue in the ‘Miracle on the Tracks
In a world often marked by challenges and uncertainties, a heartwarming story has emerged to restore our faith in the innate goodness of humanity. The tale, aptly named “Miracle on the Tracks,” centers around a loyal dog whose heroic actions transcend the ordinary.
The narrative takes root when the canine, known for its unwavering loyalty, stumbles upon an abandoned baby near a set of train tracks. Without hesitation, the dog springs into action, barking and attracting the attention of passersby. The heroic effort unfolds as the faithful companion stands guard over the defenseless infant, a living symbol of vulnerability amid life’s tumultuous journey.
As the news of the loyal dog’s rescue mission spreads, the story captivates hearts worldwide, sparking a wave of empathy and kindness. Social media platforms buzz with discussions, and the once-fragmented online community unites in shared appreciation for the dog’s selfless act. The image of the protective dog and the rescued baby becomes a beacon of hope, reminding people of the profound impact small acts of compassion can have on a global scale.
The “Miracle on the Tracks” saga serves as a powerful testament to the enduring qualities of empathy and kindness. In a world often inundated with negativity, this story becomes a rallying point for those who believe in the transformative power of compassion. It prompts individuals to reflect on their own capacity for benevolence and consider the positive change that can arise from even the simplest acts of caring.
Ultimately, “Miracle on the Tracks” resonates beyond its immediate narrative, becoming a universal symbol of hope. It reinforces the idea that, irrespective of our differences, we are all connected by a shared humanity that thrives on compassion. In this heartening tale, the loyal dog becomes an unwitting ambassador for the innate goodness within us all, rekindling our collective belief in the power of empathy and kindness to create miracles, both big and small.
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