I love raising service dog puppies

1. I make a difference in the life of Someone l' will never know

2. Getting a puppy And teaching it skills that will make a difference in someone s life

3. People always ask. Isn't it hard to give them back?

Yes it is sad to return them

Happiness comes back when I get a new puppy with puppy breath to train

Barb and Tom 

Our family is new to fostering a puppy but we are glad took the plunge. We have babysat dogs for friends for many years since our family dog passed away. We were introduced to VIP by some friends and agreed to foster Gremlin a Poodle / Golden Retriever mix for what we promised would be a short and limited time. After we met this adorable and obviously smart puppy we started asking about getting more involved with the organization. We wanted to be a part of training Gremlin to be a key part in supporting a disabled person. We did not know who would become Gremlin’s person but we decided our family wanted to be a part of a successful placement. Gremlin became a part of our lives and particularly mine for about 8 months. He joined me at work and our family for activities including shopping and eating at restaurants. We learned about what it means to be a service dog together. He and I both made mistakes along the way but all the leaders and other foster families helped us to learn what to do. Gremlin and I succeeded week after week and finally he was paired with a child that needed the help that Gremlin could provide. Dog and child met for the first time and I could see the immediate connection. Gremlin found his purpose in life and I was able to be part of the introduction and transition to his new person. I have to say it is very hard to fall in love with the little fur ball and then have to give him to another family. That feeling of loss is overwhelmingly replaced with warmth and pride as I witnessed in real time when a special dog finds his purpose in life. I know for sure that Gremlin will have a great long life helping this special child navigate school and the challenges of life.

Blair and Deb P.

 I have raised 8 puppies with VIPs guidance, all the puppies will be fondly remembered by my family and coworkers. They shared Christmas and other holidays with us and always brought joy to every event. As normal we miss them, however it is rewarding to learn how the time and love you put into the puppies can be passed on to someone in need of physical or emotion support.  

Gail