2012 Graduation and Turn-in Dates:
Friday, February 17, 2012
Friday, May 18, 2012
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Friday, November 10, 2012
2012 Puppy Raising Workshops:
Saturday, March 31, 2012 Pittsburgh, PA
Saturday, April 28, 2012 Kalamazoo, MI
Saturday, June 23, 2012 Chicago, IL
Saturday, July 21, 2012 Kansas City, KS
Saturday, August 18, 2012 Volunteer Appreciation Picnic
Saturday, September 8, 2012 Indianapolis, IN
Puppy Training Challenge: When you began your puppy raising journey, the puppy manual was your guiding light. As soon as you received it you poured through the pages taking in as much information you could. As you progressed through this experience and became more confident, the puppy manual was left by the wayside.
The puppy manual is a wonderful resource when your puppy program manager is not available. I encourage you to dust off your manual and review each of the sections. There is a reason why CCI has specific rules and guidelines. Your homework for the next week is to review CCI's socialization guideline section and safety section. Please contact CCI if you have any questions.
Puppy Raising Tip: "Keeping it all in perspective!"
For centuries the Pyramids of Giza were a mystery to the modern world. Archaeologists spent decades trying to figure out how and who built them. Many people had their own perspective and made assumptions: aliens, slaves, paid workers. In time archaeologists learned the complexities of what it took to build these modern wonders.
The ancient Egyptians mastered the art of pyramid building. They had come a long way from the step pyramids, and eventually learned to build their tombs underground. These Egyptians helped transform and redefine architecture.
CCI staff are often asked "why" to many decisions, rules, policies and guidelines. To the puppy raiser an issue seems so simple or not important. "I let my pet dog off leash, why can't I let CCI puppy off leash, I've never had an issue." "I volunteered for another organization, and they let me do this!" "I like dogs that bark at the door, a graduate would like that." "He won't get hurt, I'll make the experience positive."
What might seem simple or straight forward, in reality is not.
Michael King - Apprentice Instructor- at the Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
It is in the details that explain CCI decisions.
Michael King - at the base of the pyramid
When you hear about a CCI decision, or read a policy, rule, or guideline, the reason may not be clear. The decisions CCI has made, have been made for a reason. The details and scope of that decision, policy or rule may be more than what meets the eye.
By volunteering for Canine Companions for Independence, a puppy raiser agrees to the decisions, policies, and rules that are set. In order for an organization to run smoothly, and that organizations goals met, everyone must work together. Puppy raisers are encouraged to ask questions so there is no mystery.
The pyramids of Giza, were built by many. As you carry (raise) your one rock (puppy), keep in mind your frame of reference. From much trial and error, CCI has learned and implemented what works for CCI's goals. Your contribution to CCI is one of many, but no less important. If the rocks are not layered and organized correctly, the pyramid will crumble. Unlike the pyramids, CCI's inner workings are not a mystery. The details may not be clear at first, but with time, trust, and openness, understanding will come.
Happy Training,
Suzanne Sliclen
Puppy Program Manager
