Support our ‘Heroes on Both Ends of the Leash’ Campaign
Make a Difference, One Paw at a Time
Volunteer with Hawaiʻi Fi-Do Service Dogs
Hawaiʻi Fi-Do Service Dogs is looking for dedicated volunteers to help us raise, train, and support life-changing service dogs for individuals with disabilities across the islands. Whether you've got a few hours a week or room in your home for a full-time furry companion, there's a role that fits your life.
Beginning Your Puppy Raiser Journey
Your experience begins even before your puppy comes home. As a first-time puppy raiser, you’ll be paired with a Hawaiʻi Fi-Do mentor —an experienced volunteer who provides guidance and support every step of the way. You’ll also connect with fellow puppy raisers in your local community.
The application process typically takes a few weeks and includes:
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A general volunteer application
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A detailed puppy raiser application
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A phone interview with Program Director
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A meet-and-greet with your Hawaiʻi Fi-Do mentor in your area
Volunteer Opportunities
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A Closer Look: The Puppy Raiser Program
Raising a Hawaiʻi Fi-Do puppy is a 12–24 month commitment, and it's the foundation everything else is built on. Here's what it actually involves.
Documentation & Communication
- Submit monthly progress reports/journal entries to the Program Director
- Complete evaluations at designated training milestones
- Stay in regular contact with trainers and program staff
Daily Care & Environment
- Provide a safe, nurturing home with consistent love and clear boundaries
- Set and hold behavioral expectations from day one
- Dedicate real daily time to training, socialization, and exercise
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Training & Socialization
Attend mandatory weekly or monthly meetings with trainers and fellow raisers- Participate in obedience classes built to ADI (Assistance Dogs International) standards- Bring your puppy into everyday life — errands, community events, social gatherings- Expose your puppy to the range of environments they'll encounter as a working service dog> Important: Puppies in training don't have automatic public access rights. Always ask permission before bringing one into a business or facility.
Behavioral Standards
Every puppy needs to learn:
- Chewing only designated toys
- Staying off furniture and beds
- No begging or counter surfing
- Calm, controlled greetings — no jumping
- Appropriate barking behavior
Raiser Requiremnets
Essential:
- Primary raiser must be 18 or older (minors can serve as secondary raisers)
- Enough strength and energy to handle an active, growing puppy
- Consistent daily availability for training and socialization
- Commitment to positive reinforcement — food rewards only, no exceptions
- Full, Part, Short-Term MUST go through a home inspection and have an enclosed yard or approved outdoor area
Preferred, not required:
- Previous dog training experience
- Willingness to learn and apply professional training techniques
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset
Personal attributes that help:
- Patience and persistence
- Flexibility and adaptability
- A genuine commitment to the mission
What We Provide
You don't need to be a professional dog trainer to join us. We set every volunteer up for success with:
- Comprehensive training — weekly classes, hands-on coaching, and ongoing support from program staff
- Supplies & medical care — approved medical expenses, preventative medications, crates, vests, and training gear
- A supportive community — a network of fellow dog lovers who genuinely have your back
Your Impact
Every raiser is a partner in giving someone their independence back. The work you put in during that first foundational year shapes the success of the entire partnership that follows.
Ready to Join the Pack?
Every hour you give helps open up a world of independence for someone in our community.
How To Apply:
1. Visit our website and fill out a brief volunteer application
2. Attend an upcoming orientation and handler training session
3. Get matched with a role that fits your schedule and your life
Questions? Reach out to the Hawaiʻi Fi-Do team any time.
Volunteer Opportunities
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