The Pet Parent Hotline

What Guide Dog Puppy Raisers Do to Train Future Heroes


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Ever wonder who helps train the dogs that change lives for people who are blind?

Most people don’t realize that before a guide dog is matched with their handler, there’s a volunteer family behind the scenes laying the foundation for that dog’s success.

In this episode, you’ll meet two longtime puppy raisers and a guide dog recipient as they share what it really takes to raise a future guide dog—and how you can help, too.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• How guide dog puppies are selected, raised, and trained before formal school
• What it’s like to foster and then say goodbye to a dog you’ve raised
• Why the need for puppy raisers is greater than ever

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering or just want a glimpse into the journey of a guide dog, this episode will leave you inspired.

CONNECT WITH DONNA MACK:
LinkedIn | www.disabilitydiplomat.com

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook | www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Guide Dogs for the Blind | www.guidedogs.com

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

Love the show? Share it with a pet parent who’s tired of chaos. Drop a 5-star review so more people can find the real advice they need.

🎧Get your free guide: 10 Tips for Bonding With Your Pet

Follow:
🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵Spotify


Big pet challenges we help pet parents solve include: saving money on pet food, saving money on pet care, puppy training, cat behavior, behavior problems, pet budgeting, stress-free vet visits, solutions for multi-pet households, and more.

Contact: [email protected]

©Ⓟ 2025 by Amy Castro.

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The Pet Parent HotlineBy Amy Castro, MA, CSP

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