America's VetDogs, New York Jets, partner to raise future service dog
The collaboration aims to bring in more volunteers; no prior training experience is necessary.
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Ten-week-old Jet is out to capture hearts and raise awareness about the need for volunteers to raise puppies just like him.
A Labrador retriever, Jet is being raised and trained as a future service dog by America's VetDogs, a non-profit organization that raises dogs like Jet to place with veterans in need, at no cost.
America's VetDogs has partnered with the New York Jets and Dime Bank to underwrite some costs of raising these puppies—which can total more than $50,000 per dog—and recruit more volunteers. The organization has about 165 staff members and 1,400 volunteers, but is in urgent need of volunteer puppy raisers near Harrison.
Volunteers must welcome a puppy at about 8 weeks old and teach basic obedience, house manners, commands, socialization, and more. No prior dog training experience is needed, and America's VetDogs regional puppy advisors support volunteers throughout the process. The organization covers all necessities, including veterinary care. Volunteers just pay for the dog's food.
At 14 to 18 months old, puppies return to America's VetDogs' campus in Smithtown, New York, for formal service dog training before placement with a veteran or first responder with disabilities.
To learn more or volunteer, visit America's VetDogs website.
