A puppy raiser family is responsible for providing a loving and nurturing home environment for about one year.
BASKING RIDGE, NJ — A Basking Ridge local has earned a scholarship from Seeing Eye for raising at least two Seeing Eye puppies.
Marion Annette Sblendori of the Somerset County Puppy Raising Club demonstrated a "high level of academic achievement and community involvement," according to Seeing Eye.
She’ll be using her scholarship to attend the University of Tampa.
“Seeing Eye Family Day is one of our most cherished traditions. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the incredible commitment of our volunteer puppy raisers," said Seeing Eye president and CEO Karen Leies. "Our volunteers play a vital role in shaping the future of each puppy, offering them a nurturing home, early training, and the social experiences they need to grow into confident guide dogs."
"As we prepare for several new litters in the coming months, we’re inviting dog lovers to become part of our mission," said Leies. "Whether you’re interested in raising a puppy or helping out as a sitter, there’s a place for you in our community. The Seeing Eye covers the cost of veterinary care, preventatives, and puppy food so you can focus on the important task of nurturing a puppy with an important purpose."
A puppy raiser family is responsible for providing a loving and nurturing home environment for about one year.
During that time, the raiser is responsible for teaching basic obedience, house manners, bringing the puppy to Seeing Eye puppy club meetings and socialization trips in their area.
The Seeing Eye puppy could be a German shepherd, Labrador retriever, golden retriever, or a Labrador/golden retriever cross.
Puppy raisers must live within New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware or New York so they can attend regular puppy club meetings where they will receive help and coaching with their puppies.
All veterinary and food expenses are covered by The Seeing Eye. If a Seeing Eye puppy does not graduate from the program, the family who raised the puppy is offered the first option to adopt the puppy they raised.
For more information, visit seeingeye.org/raise.
— Submitted by Seeing Eye