Putnam Service Dogs, a recognized 501(c)3, looks for rescue animals with the proper temperament and then takes the time to train the dogs as service animals, according to the nonprofit's website.
Once the dogs are ready, they are given at no cost to people with a physical disability other than blindness, according to the sight, which said that follow-up support services are offered once a dog has been awarded.
Currently, Putnam Service Dogs is looking for people willing to raise and help train a black labrador mix puppy, according to the group, which did not specify how many dogs are available.
Those who volunteer for the task must be willing to raise the dog until it is between 14-16 months old, the age at which formal training can begin. Volunteers will be provided guidance from top dog trainers at weekly classes, the nonprofit said.
The organization's leaders say about one in every three dogs completes the training. Those animals unable to do so are still better off because the extra attention leaves them more readily adoptable.
Anyone interested in volunteering with Putnam Service Dogs can attend one of three Puppy Raiser Information Lunches scheduled to take place in March.
According to Putnam Service Dogs, the lunches start at 12:30 p.m. and will take place at:
- Mill Plain Diner, Danbury, Connecticut -- Saturday, March 11.
- Carriage House, Mahopac, New York -- Saturday, March 18.
- Putnam Diner, Patterson, New York -- Saturday, March 25.
For more information, visit Putnam Service Dogs or email info@putnamservicedogs.org.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Putnam and receive free news updates.