Guide Dogs of the Desert urgently needs volunteer puppy raisers

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - Guide Dogs of the Desert is looking for volunteer puppy raisers almost 20 new puppies. The organization says that puppy raisers are an integral part in carrying out their mission to improve independence for those who are visually impaired.

Lisa Coleman, a former puppy raiser and current volunteer with the organization, says that she discovered she had an eye disease shortly after her partner started working for Guide Dogs of the Desert.

"Once I was diagnosed legally blind, I was all in. I was all in for every individual out there that visually impaired or blind. I knew that feeling," she says.

Puppy raisers keep puppies for up to a year. "They're housebreaking, they're teaching basic obedience. We have a lot of events for them to go to, whether it's a structured event or community event at a coffee shop," says Angel Coleman, the medical director of Guide Dogs of the Desert.

After that, puppies return to Guide Dogs of the Desert to receive formal guide dog training.

"When I watch handlers cross the stage and gain that confidence and freedom that a guide dog brings, I have hope," says Lisa Coleman.

If you're interested in volunteering, here's a link to their website.