How Guide Dog Puppies Are Trained To Become Heroes

Ever wonder what happens before a guide dog ever meets the person who needs them?
Most people picture formal dog training, but the real foundation is built first by volunteer puppy raisers, the families who teach the basics, build confidence, and expose these pups to the real world.

In this episode, you’ll hear from longtime puppy raisers Roxanne (and her husband Jim), now raising their 11th puppy, and Donna Mack, a guide dog handler and disability access leader, whose guide dog Wella has changed how she travels, works, and moves through the world.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
 • What puppy raisers actually do from 8 weeks to 14 to 18 months, and why exposure matters more than perfection
 • Why some dogs don’t become guide dogs, and the meaningful roles they can play instead
 • What the application and training process is like for a guide dog handler, and how the dog learns routes and decision-making
 • Why guide dog schools always need more puppy raisers, and how to get involved

CONNECT WITH DONNA MACK:
LinkedIn | www.disabilitydiplomat.com

LEARN MORE FROM AMY CASTRO:
Facebook | www.starlightoutreachandrescue.org

OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Guide Dogs for the Blind | www.guidedogs.com

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

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Each week, get practical pet parenting advice and expert help for behavior issues, rising pet costs, vet visits, training, and everyday life with dogs and cats.

From puppy biting and cat aggression to separation anxiety, emergency vet decisions, and saving money on pet care, this show helps you cut through the noise and find real solutions.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical help so you can enjoy your pets and your life again.

Contact: [email protected]
©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro