Service Dog Puppy Fosters

BluePath Service Dogs is looking for Volunteer Service Dog Fosters to provide a loving and supportive environment for future service dogs for young adults while the dogs are in training. Once dogs are around 18 months old and begin training with a professional BluePath trainer, they are fostered in the homes of volunteers for about 6-12 months. BluePath dogs are typically Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or Golden-Lab crosses.

Volunteer Fosters must transport their dogs to and from training at BluePath's location in Wappingers Falls approximately three to five days per week (dogs are dropped off in the morning and picked up in late afternoon). This allows all of the dogs to live in homes and not in kennels, and the foster provides exercise, engagement, direction, and relaxation for the service dog outside of its daily training routine.

Volunteer Fosters follow BluePath protocols in continuing the already-established basic skills and house manners to prepare the dog for life supporting a child with special needs. No experience is required and BluePath provides veterinary care, supplies, instruction, and support.

Volunteer Fosters will also be invited to attend service dog graduation where they will have the opportunity to connect with the dog's recipient family.

"Fostering for BluePath has been an amazing experience for our entire family. We are a link in the chain of many BluePath volunteers who give a family of a child with autism the freedom to be out in the community safely." — Allison Armstrong, volunteer foster

"Fostering for BluePath is a true joy. The dogs are excellent "coworkers" in my remote job, providing levity and companionship throughout the day. I love being part of an organization that makes such an important difference in the world." — Ryan Corde, volunteer foster