Raising a service dog can be both fun and fulfilling. But there are also the moments . . . at 3 am when your little one needs to piddle or when you come home and find your favorite rug chewed to bits. Before you decide to commit to raising a dog of any sort, ask your self if you have the time and energy to devote to the task. And be sure the rest of your household doesn't mind the disruption! There are many organizations devoted to service dogs and choosing which to volunteer your time to can be difficult. If at all possible visit a training and see first hand how the dogs are treated. Here are some questions to ask:

1. How are your puppies chosen? Do you have a breading program, or do you use donated and shelter dogs? Do you ever transport your puppies or dogs as cargo on commercial airlines?
2. What percentage of dogs that enter your program do not pass and why?
3. What kinds of clients do you serve? Do you place dogs with children? The elderly? Classrooms and nursing homes?
4. What kind of support do you offer your puppy raisers? Is there a chance to meet other puppy raisers? If I have a problem with my puppy who do I call?
5. Who does advanced training with the dogs when they are returned and how long does the training last?
6. Am I allowed or encouraged to meet the client with whom my puppy is eventually partnered?