Getting Started MN

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 and Submit Two Online Forms

To begin, we ask that you complete the required waivers and agreements. Can Do Canines does need to receive your completed paperwork before you can take home a puppy or dog.

Forms can be completed online by visiting the two links below. Be sure to complete both forms.

Waiver and Releases

Host Agreement

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.

Screenshot of Memberspace login/account creation page

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.

Host a Dog from Our Kennel

We would like your first dog hosting experience to be with a dog from our kennel if possible. 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. Program staff will reach out to you to schedule your first-time dog-hosting experience.

When you host, you will be given information specific to each dog. While we are able to 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.

Download Supply List