GETTING STARTED
It’s official—you are part of the pack! We’ve outlined the next steps on your journey to raising and training an assistance dog.
Complete the Waiver and Release Form
To begin, we ask that you complete the required waivers and agreements.
Complete the Host Agreement Form
Forms must be completed before you can host a dog.
Access the Puppy Program Portal
All of our training materials, program standards, request forms, and relevant updates are found on our Puppy Program Portal. This portal is password protected by Memberspace. You will be prompted to create an account when you visit the portal. A staff member will approve your request within 2 business days.
A great first page to explore when you gain access to the site is our Program Standards page.
Below is a screenshot of the login/account creation page.
Host a Dog from Our Kennel
If you live near our facility in New Hope, MN, we would like your first dog hosting experience to be with a dog from our kennel. The dogs in the kennel are in for final training, which means they are now focusing on behaviors and skills needed to be placed with a client. These dogs are over a year old and have a strong obedience foundation. The kennel is located at the Can Do Canines facility. Pick-up of a kennel dog is available on Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The dog should return on Monday between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. If you live near our facility, program staff will reach out to you to schedule your first-time dog-hosting experience.
If you do not live near our facility, this step is optional. Email to let us know if you want your first hosting experience to be with a dog in our kennel for its final training.
Supplies
When you host, you will be given information specific to each dog. While we can provide some supplies needed while you are hosting, you will want to purchase stainless steel food/water bowls, a 42" crate (wire or plastic), and toys. We recommend a non-edible Nylabone (large or giant size) and a red Kong, size large. Please download the Supplies List for more detail.
Optional | Register to Observe a Few Training Classes
Step 1—Once you gain access to the Puppy Program portal, navigate to the Training menu and choose Training Opportunities from the dropdown.
Step 2—To be added to the schedule, complete the form at the bottom of the page.
Please sign up to observe Group Classes Only. Seminars, Outings, and One-On-One's are reserved for volunteers who have a program dog assigned to them.
Staying Connected
Want to share pictures and updates with other volunteers? Join the private Puppy Program Group on Facebook
Check your Spam filters.
We send out emails to communicate opportunities and program updates.
Contact Us
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