What’s better than a birthday party? A birthday party for a puppy!
South Africa (27 October 2025) – A special group of volunteer puppy raisers and their pack of future heroes all got together to celebrate a young litter’s first birthday as SA Guide-Dog Association guide and assistance dogs last week.
It was as adorable as it sounds – a real bash with doggy bandanas, treats, and party hats.
The litter of seven looked dashing alongside their human puppy raisers, who go through great lengths to raise future generations of hero dogs.
“To celebrate the “L” pups turning one, we had a birthday party and our very own Fun Awards. From Class Clown to Most Likely Puppy Raiser to Talk in a Baby Voice, every pup and raiser showed that joy and connection are just as important as training,” shared the association. “The pups were spoiled with birthday treats, and the puppy raisers had their treats too.”
The work of being a puppy raiser deserves to be celebrated just as much as the doggies are.
Puppy raisers are everyday people who volunteer and commit their time and love towards caring for the association’s future four-legged guide and assistance heroes, who eventually go on to become forever companions to those with visual impairments and disabilities.
Pups stay in their raiser’s care from around eight weeks until they’re 16-18 months old.
It’s generally a year-and-a-half-long period, in which puppies get to learn basic obedience skills – like how to walk on a lead, being comfortable around distractions, and getting used to new environments. Volunteers of the same litter often meet up with doggies in tow for events and social time, just like the recent bash.
Life-long friendships are made in puppy raising circles.
“A special bond is formed when you puppy raise, and along the way you end up with wonderful friendships and lasting connections,” shares the association.
Once the pups reach the 16-18 month mark, they graduate to formal training at the SA Guide-Dog Association’s centres in Johannesburg or Cape Town. There they learn the highly specialised skills that allow them to become Guide Dogs, Service Dogs, or Autism Support Dogs.
It’s a big step, and one that wouldn’t be possible without the foundation laid by the puppy raisers. They play a big role in preparing pups for a life of service.
Every dog moves on to change someone’s world by giving them independence, safety, mobility, and companionship. Puppy raisers get to be part of that journey, knowing their efforts ripple out far beyond their own homes. A bonus is the cuddles they score along the way.
Does puppy raising sound like something you’d be up to? The SA Guide-Dogs Association is always looking for volunteers. They cover the food and vet bills, you bring the love, patience, and time. An extensive application process does apply to ensure that the future’s four-legged heroes land in the right hands.
If you’d like to support SA Guide Dogs Association in another way, you can purchase their 2026 calendar. It’s a good stocking filler that contributes towards an even greater cause.
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