Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping days of the year. I was never one to leave Thanksgiving early to hop in line at my local retailer. I’ve always been more of a stay at home, drink hot cocoa, and wait for the crazy stories about the fights breaking out at Walmart over the […]
New Puppy Checklist 2021 – I’m Getting A New Puppy, What Do I Need?
“I’m getting a new puppy, what do I need? Do you have a new puppy checklist?” –C.M. On January 7th, 2005, I asked those questions to the employee at the local pet store…wait a second, lets rewind… That morning I didn’t know it, but in the afternoon I’d be bringing home an adorable, little Aussie […]
What Are The Best Chew Toys For A Puppy? [Our Top Picks For 2021]
Before getting my first puppy I never bothered to ask: “What are the best chew toys for a puppy?” I just went to the nearest pet store, grabbed the cutest, squeakiest, squirrel toy and brought it home to Linus. Two years later, before bringing home my first guide dog puppy, our group leader suggested I […]
What Should I Expect From My 8 Week Old Puppy?
Last week we brought home an adorable 8 week old puppy. It’s our first puppy since we lost our black Lab, Stetson a little over a year ago. This time we got a female Labrador puppy. Exciting times ahead! 🙂 This is not our first rodeo. In fact, we’ve raised dozens of puppies, mostly Labrador […]
What Commands Do You Teach A Service Dog?
Have you ever wondered or thought to ask: “Colby, what commands do you teach a service dog?” As guide dog puppy raisers we teach our puppies 9 basic obedience commands before they start their formal training. Adelle’s service dog training manual lists 30 commands! That’s right THREE – ZERO!!! We’ve been raising and training guide […]
Can You Have Two Service Dogs?
I’ve been raising and training service dog puppies for over 13 years and the question of one person bringing multiple working service dogs into a public place never crossed my mind until today. A few weeks ago someone asked me “Can I have two service dogs?” After giving the question a little thought it made […]