If you want to combine the joys of raising adorable puppies AND doing your bit for charity - we may have the perfect solution.

Irish Guide Dogs are looking for puppy raisers in Leinster and Munster... and all you need to provide is love as all bills are covered. "We need kind families who are willing to foster an Irish Guide Dogs puppy from age 7-8 weeks to 12-15 months," a message on the Irish Guide Dogs website reads.   It adds: "At seven weeks old our puppies begin their journey to becoming a Guide Dog for a person who is vision impaired, or an Assistance Dog for a family of a child with autism. This journey starts in the homes of our Puppy Raising Volunteers. "The puppy will live with your family in your home. Under the direction of our Early Training Team puppies learn basic rules and obedience." https://twitter.com/irishguidedogs/status/1025109502205616129 The organisation stresses that this "is a full-time volunteering role". The Puppy Raising Programme is currently available in the following areas: Cork, Limerick, Tralee, Killarney, Waterford, Dublin, Wicklow, Kildare, Meath, and Westmeath.   All veterinary fees and feeding costs are covered by Irish Guide Dogs organisation. https://twitter.com/irishguidedogs/status/1025070993969176577 Other considerations include:

• Other dogs in the home are fine once they are sociable and neutered.
• The puppy must not be left alone for more than four hours.
• You must have access to a secured outdoor area.
• Children in the home must be over five years of age.
• You must be 18 years or older, but the whole family can get involved.

It is furthermore highlighted that "retired people and families with children generally make good Puppy Raisers, but anyone can apply, and having pets doesn’t necessarily exclude people. The important thing is that the person is able to spend time caring for and teaching the puppy." https://twitter.com/irishguidedogs/status/1025106269999443968 If you want to apply, you're asked to complete a Volunteer Application Form. A member of the Early Training Team will then contact you to discuss the role in more detail. If you would like to talk to one of our team, you can call 1850 506 300 or email volunteer@guidedogs.ie.