Foster a service dog in training

Canine educators (foster families) are vital to Circle Tail’s mission. Canine educators contribute an essential service by providing a means to house, train, and nurture Circle Tail assistance dogs-in-training. With the close guidance of Circle Tail staff, canine educators carefully socialize pups and dogs, teach manners and reinforce basic and advanced obedience.

What is required?

• Volunteer canine educators must devote time each day to oversee the complete care of the dog including: feeding, grooming, socialization, and exercise as recommended by the staff. Fostering these wonderful dogs is an important, rewarding and memorable experience!
• You must be at least 18 and have no more than 2 pet dogs in your home. Your dogs must be at least 1 year old. Cats are welcome.
• You will need to attend obedience training classes and follow the Circle Tail training, manners and socialization guidelines.
• You provide toys and treats. Circle Tail can provide food, collars, leashes, and crates as needed. Veterinary care is also provided by Circle Tail.

How do I get started?

First step is to attend a campus tour and info session at Circle Tail. Check our calendar for the next campus tour.

You’ll then schedule your training classes and work with a Circle Tail volunteer or staff member to answer any questions and prepare you for your first Circle Tail dog!

Our on-campus volunteer opportunities are for dog lovers 16 years of age and over. Although we cannot accommodate volunteer groups of young children at our facility, Circle Tail always appreciates groups who gather donations of items from our wish list, and we are happy to schedule a volunteer to come to your organization with one our dogs to talk about our programs. We strongly support scouts achieving their Eagle Scout or Gold Award at Circle Tail. We can also accommodate service hours required for many local schools. If you would like more information on opportunities for children or a speaker at your school/ group, please contact us.