Hike for Hope | The People Behind The Journey
[Image Description: Group of Volunteers standing holding puppies.]
Behind every See Differently Guide & Assistance Dog is a community of people helping them take the journey from puppy to life changer.
For every puppy learning their first commands, navigating their first tram ride or discovering the world around them, there’s a volunteer helping them along the way.
At See Differently, our volunteers are an essential part of the Guide & Assistance Dog journey. With either short- or long-term opportunities, volunteers help give their time, patience and care so our dogs are ready for their future careers.
[Image Description: Volunteers Andrew and Liv laying on a dogbed with some sleeping puppies]
Helping A Puppy Find Its ‘First’ Paws
A puppy’s journey starts with learning the basics.
Our Puppy Raisers help young dogs with toilet training, basic obedience and becoming comfortable in the world around them. They take them on walks and outings, introducing them to the environments they may one day need to navigate with their handler, from public transport and busy streets to shops and everyday activities.
Even learning to settle calmly at home is part of their training. And you don’t need to be a professional dog trainer to get involved.
See Differently provides support and guidance along the way. What matters most is consistency, patience and a willingness to learn alongside your puppy.
“The people who give to See Differently, either with their time or with their money, the difference that they’re making is indescribable to people like me.” – Nicole | Guide Dog client
[Image Description: Person sitting at an event smiling.]
Every Puppy Is Different
Just like people, every dog has their own personality.
Some puppies pick things up quickly, while others need a little more time. There are challenges and surprises along the way, yet watching those small moments of progress is one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering.
Puppy Raiser Lindsay, who has volunteered with See Differently for many years, says seeing the dogs graduate is the ultimate reward.
“The most rewarding part is seeing them graduate and go with a client. The difference it makes, not just to that client’s life, but to the whole family.” – Lindsay
Could You Help A Puppy Take Its Next Step?
Find out more about volunteering with See Differently and discover how you can help.