- FAQ's
How does CaPR get its puppies?
Generous breeders donate the majority of CaPR puppies. Occasionally individuals and rescue organizations donate puppies.
At what age are puppies accepted into the CaPR program?
Puppies are accepted between 2-3 months of age.
Who trains the puppies and for how long?
A Volunteer Puppy Raiser trains a young puppy for about 16 months while it lives in his/her home. The Raiser teaches manners and basic commands and also introduces the puppy to a variety of social contexts. At about 18 months of age, the puppy moves to the home of an Advanced Trainer for approximately 6 months. The Advanced Trainer polishes the basic skills, teaches more advanced skills as well as specific service dog skills.
Who is financially responsible for the puppy?
The Volunteer Puppy Raiser is responsible for the cost of raising the puppy while in his/her care. Examples of expenses are food, toys, crates and veterinary care including inoculations and having the puppy spayed or neutered.
How does a Volunteer Puppy Raiser learn how to train the puppy?
CaPR provides a manual as well as on-going training classes and outings for puppies at all levels.
What type of training methodology does CaPR use?
CaPR is dedicated to using positive reinforcement training methods.
Is it hard to let go of the puppy?
Without question, it is difficult to give up a puppy. Volunteer Puppy Raisers and Advanced Trainers bond strongly with a puppy as part of their effort to help the puppy thrive in a loving and nurturing environment. Nevertheless, there is a great sense of pride and accomplishment when "their" dog is placed in a working partnership.
What happens if the puppy doesn't make it through the CaPR program?
CaPR offers the released puppy to the Volunteer Puppy Raiser for adoption as a pet at no cost. If the Raiser declines, the puppy is listed with the Released Dog Program.
Can anyone adopt a released CaPR puppy?
Someone interested in adopting a released CaPR puppy or mature dog can apply to the Released Dog Program. Released puppies and dogs are matched with adopting families to insure a safe and appropriate adoption.
Will the puppy ever spend time in a kennel situation?
Throughout training, CaPR puppies always live in a home environment.
How long does an Applicant have to wait for a CaPR service dog?
The length of time an Applicant waits depends on when a suitable CaPR service dog is available. Dogs and Applicants are matched based on the right dog for the right person for a great partnership.
How does an Applicant learn to partner with the service dog?
Before receiving a dog, an Applicant is provided with recommended reading for study and is encouraged to observe CaPR’s on-going training classes. When an Applicant is matched with a service dog, the partnering phase of training begins. It is a combination of hands-on experience with the dog, lectures and self-study. Sessions may be individualized or in group settings.
Why does CaPR place service dogs only in Colorado?
First and foremost, there is a great need for service dogs in Colorado. In addition, by limiting the geographical area, CaPR is able to effectively provide the critical follow-up and support services needed to insure the continued success of the partnership.
How much does CaPR charge for a service dog?
CaPR charges each Applicant $3,500 to help offset the cost of the partnership training. CaPR supports Applicants with fund raising endeavors; however, the Applicant is ultimately responsible for payment of the fee prior to receiving training or a dog.
How can I help?
You can help by making a financial contribution to CaPR and by volunteering your time. For more information, please go to the “Donate” and “Volunteer” pages on this Website.
