Celebrating Our Volunteers
The Heart of BC & Alberta Guide Dogs
This National Volunteer Week, we’re pausing to say one thing to every volunteer in our community: thank you.
Thank you for opening your homes, your hearts, and your lives to help raise, train, and support the future Guide and Service Dogs who go on to change lives. Whether you’re training a young pup, socializing dogs in new environments, assisting at events, or lending your time behind the scenes, your dedication is what powers our mission forward.
Raising a Guide Dog or Service Dog is an incredibly meaningful experience. Every moment you spend guiding, encouraging, and caring for these puppies helps prepare them for the important work ahead. Because of you, lives are changed, confidence is restored, and doors open for people who need it most.
At BC & Alberta Guide Dogs, we are continually inspired by the passion and heart of our volunteers. You are the reason we can do what we do, and this week, we want to shine a light on some of the wonderful stories you’ve shared with us.
Here are just a few reflections from members of our amazing Puppy Raising community:
I am currently training service dog number 11. One of the things they teach us puppy trainers is to “train the dog you have,” and I have had such diversity. Apple practically trained herself and made everyone think I was the dog whisperer. And then there was Simba. My fellow puppy trainers could see that I was struggling. My pack had my back. With their help, he became one of the most gratifying service dogs I have ever trained.
Thank you, Bill, Linda, Laura, Matthias, Sam, Nancy and especially my fellow PT’s for making me feel appreciated over the years.
Danielle
Puppy Raiser
“I am currently raising my third pup. My first two have graduated and are now working as OSI/PTSD service dogs. My third pup will go into Advanced Training later this year.
It is a happy occasion to be given your new 8-week-old pup. I look forward to teaching them all the basics, exposing them to every situation we can think of that they will encounter in their working life.
It has its challenges, requires patience, and is such a joy when they successfully demonstrate what they have learned.
I have met many new friends as a result of training with other Puppy Raisers. There is a whole community here that cares about the pups, cares about BCAGD and cares for and helps each other.”
Cathy
Puppy Raiser
In between a busy schedule of puppy classes and socialization activities, Barney holds down the position of Vice President (Canine Relations) at YMCA Calgary, teaching how service dogs (and their handlers) can experience recreation and bringing smiles to all he encounters. I have found the Puppy Raising process to be marvellous, with plenty of support from the BCAGD staff team and a very dedicated group of volunteers. Whenever I have had a question (and there have been plenty), I have found answers, support and friendship.
Learning about how these pups change lives motivates me to give Barney the best that I can, and to become a better trainer.
Nick
First Time Puppy Raiser
Since joining this wonderful organization 12 years ago, I have raised 5 dogs and anxiously awaiting my sixth. All my girls are working or are a retired breeder, and I miss and love each one.
Lynn
Puppy Raiser
To All Our Volunteers:
Your time, energy, and love allow us to provide life-changing dogs to those who need them. You are truly the heart of BC & Alberta Guide Dogs.
From all of us, thank you.
With deep appreciation,
Your BC & Alberta Guide Dogs Family
