PAALS PUPPY/DOG RAISER, FOSTER FAMILY JOB DESCRIPTION Title: Foster/Raiser (best people we know!) Manages: One lovable puppy/dog in training for service work Salary: Unconditional canine love Overview of Responsibilities and Duties: The PAALS foster position is extremely important to the PAALS program and its success. As a puppy or dog raiser, you establish the foundation of training and socialization critical to a service dog’s future success as a lifelong partner to someone in need. During your time as a foster PAALS’ will help you accomplish the following: PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Socialization Acceptance of hands-on grooming Basic Obedience Preliminary task training (service dog skills) Pass Canine Good Citizen Test PR work in the community QUALIFICATIONS: Loving and safe home for 4-22 months (must be raised indoors) Have no more than 2 pet dogs who can be proven to be healthy and friendly (other pets are great for our PAALS dogs as well). Ability to separate PAALS dogs from pet dogs for large portions of the day for training purposes. Ability to attend weekly training session in downtown Columbia (right now scheduled on Fri’s 4:00- 5:30, but subject to change). If we have several people in an area further from Columbia we will arrange for alternate training spots and schedule, but these puppies/dogs must be made available in Columbia for special events and programs. Time to take puppy on twice daily walks and exercise in safe enclosed area off leash once a day. Ability to take puppy to public places for training at least twice a week after trained and approved by PAALS staff. Daily training of PAALS puppy at home according to PAALS protocols. Flexible schedule that allows someone in the family to be home during at least half the day so that the puppy is not left in crate for more than 4 hours at a time. Ability to cover cost of obedience class (PAALS has several discounted trainers that we recommend), food, heartworm medication, flea/tick prevention, toys, treats, and travel expenses incurred due to travel to and from training sessions. (Each foster decides whether or not they will cover the discounted veterinary services for their foster dog). REQUIREMENTS: Before placement: home visit by PAALS, pets tested with PAALS dog(s), orientation with PAALS, and when schedule permits, be a “sitter” for a PAALS dog in training, fill out a PAALS application, and sign the foster agreement. No previous training experience required FLEXIBILITY: PAALS SWITCHES DOGS AND HOMES BASED ON NEEDS Complete and submit weekly and monthly reports Assist with at least two PAALS related special events each year Take puppy/dog to vet as scheduled and during emergencies. Contact PAALS in event boarding is needed so PAALS sitter can be assigned or PAALS approved boarding facility can be scheduled. The ability to return the dog to PAALS just as you perfect their abilities knowing that they will go on to make a difference like nothing you have ever imagined thanks to your love and support! DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION NOW! For more information, please contact us!