Volunteer - Paws Giving Independence - Paws Giving Independence

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Volunteer

Want to Become a volunteer?

You will learn to handle and train in our weekly classes and work with the dogs as they learn their new skills. Here is our volunteer application- this is the first step in getting started!

Date / Time *

Your information

Name *

First

Last

What is your pronoun gender identity? Common pronouns include she/her/hers, he/him/his, and they/them/theirs.

Are you a: *

A community volunteer
ISU Trainer
Bradley Trainer

DOB:

Are you over 18 years old?

Email *

Phone *

Current Address *

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State

Zip Code

Do you own your home? *

Upload a photo of the front, back and inside of your home *

Click or drag files to this area to upload. You can upload up to 3 files.

I live in a *

Single family home
Townhouse
Apartment
Other

Do you have a fenced yard? *

Yes
No

If you rent do you have permission of your landlord to have a dog on property?

If you rent, please unload proof of landlord approval (via email or direct communication)

Click or drag a file to this area to upload.

Please list all people and ages of who lives in your home. *

Does anyone in the home have a disability? If yes please explain. *

Please list all animals and ages that live in your home. *

My current pets are (check all that apply) *

Dog friendly
Spayed/ neutered
Up to date on vaccinations
NA- I dont have any pets

How active is your family? *

Very activie- we have many visitors, chidlren and animals in and out of our home
Somewhat active- we have a few people visit
Quiet- our home does not see many animals, children or other visitors

Where do you plan to keep a dog? (check all that apply) *

In Family home – loose
In Family home- kennel
In back yard full time or more then 60% of the day
In a garage or kennel setting alone

Vet Name, City and Phone Number

Please upload proof of vaccinations for pets currently in home

Click or drag a file to this area to upload.

If you are a student please list your family home address here:

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State

Zip Code

If you are a student, do you have parent approval to have a dog at this address?

Have you ever been convicted of animal cruelty or neglect? *

Yes
No

Are you over the age of 18 years? *

If no- how old are you?

My interest in PGI

Which programs are you interested in volunteering for? (check all that apply) **Any volunteer who will have the dogs in their home must complete a home check by our staff** *

General volunteer- unable to have a dog in my home
Dog/ Puppy Sitter- short term dog sitting if fosters are out of town
Furlough trainer- have a helping paws dog one week per month
Puppy raiser
Foster home
Transition trainer
PGI volunteer committee
Fundraising
Public Events
Wags for Mags- Bradley
Indy-pendence Service Dogs- ISU
Other

How long are you able to keep a dog for in your home? *

If other…

Please list any relevant experiences you have that you feel would benefit any of the above programs or events. Include dog training experience and general dog care. *

What dog behaviors are you NOT willing to work on through with training with a new in your home? (check all that apply) *

Barking at noises around the home/ yard
Pulling on the leash
Barking in a kennel
Excited behaviors with visitors to the home
Chewing
House training
Fear of new people or things
Car sickness
*** I understand the dogs are in training and I am willing to work on all these behviors with a new dog to my home

How many hours a day would a dog be left alone?

0-2 hours
2-5 hours
6-8 hours
8 -10 hours
10 hours+

How many hours per week would you be able to dedicate to dog training? *

3 hour or less
3 to 5 hours
5 to 10 hours
10 to 20 hours
20 or more hours

What days of the week are you available? *

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Are you available Tuesday nights for trainings? *

Yes
No

Are you interested in getting certified to handle our service dogs in vest in public settings? *

Yes
No
Unsure at this time

Are you avilable on Tuesday evenings for training? *

Yes
No

How did you find out about our organization? *

Direct mail
Advertisement
Online Search
Friend / Family
Business Colleague
Other

If other…

Please list a personal reference. Name, phone and email.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer *

By signing this I understand Paws Giving Independence reserves the right to deny any applicant for any reason. I understand Paws Giving Independence does not have to give me a reason for a denial of an animal. In my participation with Paws Giving Independence and Helping Paws I do hereby agree to hold free from any and all liability the Paws Giving Independence/Helping Paws and its members, staff members, trainers, board members, volunteer staff, volunteers and officers. My family, members of my household and myself waive the rights and claims for damages and injuries, which may come from connection and participation with PGI. I declare myself to be physically sound to participate with the PGI. I understand PGI can remove a dog from my home at any time due to failure to fulfill these terms, conditions, policies, and procedures of Paws Giving Independence. I understand any dog that is placed with me through Paws Giving Independence will legally belong to Paws Giving Independence. By listing my vet information I am giving PGI permission to contact them.

Inspection/ Rights of PGI *

I understand that Paws Giving Independence and the IL Department of Agriculture has the right to come and inspect my home if needed at any time without notice. PGI may also remove a dog at any time for any reason. PGI can remove me as a volunteer at any time for any reason.

Photo Release

I hereby authorize and grant permission to Paws Giving Independence to reproduce my first name (or my child) and/or photographic image, and/or any video footage of me, provided such photograph or video shall have been taken by Paws Giving Independence, or obtained by them either from me or with my consent. I agree that such reproduction may be edited as desired. I consent to the use of my first name, photographic image, video footage and biographical material about me in any promotional materials. I represent that I have the right to enter into the Agreement and that my rights I have granted in this Agreement will not violate any commitment or understanding I have with any other person or entity. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Paws Giving Independence, its officers, members, executors, assigns, and/or any other parties or entities employed by it in relation to the usage of the aforesaid information against all claims, losses, expenses and liabilities of every kind including reasonable attorney’s fees, arising out of the inaccuracy or breach of any provision of this Agreement. I expressly release Paws Giving Independence, its officers, members, executors, assigns, and/or said other parties or entities from any and all claims arising out of the use of my first name and/or photographic image and/or video footage. This Agreement represents the entire understanding of the parties and shall be permanent unless revoked by me in writing. Should I wish to revoke this agreement, I may do so by writing to Paws Giving Independence at PO BOX 9572, Peoria, IL 61612-9572.

Signature

Clear Signature

Disclaimer: “Successfully attending and completing our animal care workshop, public access and required training does not signify that this person is a service/assistance dog trainer or qualified to train and/or place service/assistance dogs.

Assistance Dogs International has specific standards that an individual must meet in order to be a certified assistance (service and or hearing) dog trainer – and taking part in this class or seminar does not meet these requirements.”

PGI prohibits discrimination based on race, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), religious creed, color, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, sexual orientation, citizenship status, military service or veteran status, gender identity and gender expression or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance or regulation.

Can You Help?

Paws Giving Independence is run completely on public donations. We are unique because our service dogs are placed free of charge and we currently have no paid staff. That is why we need your help to keep our program running. Many of our dogs are all rescued from shelters but we need your support to pay for the vet bills and everyday care.

We are a 501(c)(3) corporation and all donations are tax deductible.

Instagram

pgidogs

Teaser Tuesday!

Did you know that service do

Teaser Tuesday! 🌟

Did you know that service dogs can help people with invisible disabilities? Find out more tomorrow! 🐕‍🦺
#ServiceDogSupport #TeaserTuesday
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Myth vs Fact: Service Dogs Need a Special Vest M

Myth vs Fact: Service Dogs Need a Special Vest

Myth: Service dogs must always wear a vest. Fact: Service dogs don’t need a vest to be recognized, but they may wear one for identification.

Paws Giving Independence working dogs and those in training wear their vests in public for identification purposes but service dogs are not required to wear a vest in public!

It is also important to note that there are many different types of vests as well for different service work like mobility vests, sight, medical response, and many more!
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

What is a “task” for a service dog? 🐕‍🦺

Task: this is a trained behavior that the dog does on cue (or command) to mitigate its partner’s disability. The cue can be verbal, a hand signal, something in the environment and/or some behavior exhibited by the partner or another person. Examples of a verbal cue could be “take it” and a hand signal could be pointing at an object to indicate to the dog to retrieve it. A cue in the environment might be a strap on a door, a car in the road or an alarm clock ringing. The behavior of a person could be falling to the ground, hand shaking, or emitting odor of low blood sugar.
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

FUN FACT FRIDAY!! Did you know that working serv

FUN FACT FRIDAY!!

Did you know that working service dogs are trained to handle all kinds of environments when they travel? From crowded airports to busy city streets, these dogs must remain calm and focused no matter the situation!

They even learn how to navigate through security checks, stay relaxed on planes, and adapt to different climates—all while staying ready to assist their handler at a moment’s notice. Talk about the ultimate travel companions! 💼✈️

These pups are ready to take flight❤️🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Help Keep Our Service Dogs Cool! Our Helping Paws

Help Keep Our Service Dogs Cool!

Our Helping Paws program at idoc_illinois Logan Correctional Center provides training for future service dogs, but with rising temperatures, we need your help to keep them comfortable!

We’re collecting box fans to keep the dogs cool while they learn and grow. You can donate directly through our Amazon wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1UW0EGBE491IE?ref_=wl_share

Every fan makes a difference in keeping our hard-working pups safe. Thank you for your support! 🐾💙 #HelpingPaws #StayCoolPups #ServiceDogs

Myth: Rescue pups cannot be service dogs 🐕‍🦺

Fact: Rescue pups can be amazing service dogs! At PGI we have many successfully placed facility and service dogs who were rescues. Sometimes we get the rescues at a couple weeks old, other times we get them at over a year old. Temperament and willingness to work are the more important factors for determining whether a dog can be a service dog!

#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #didyouknow #servicedogfacts

Myth: Service dogs can only go to certain places

Myth: Service dogs can only go to certain places

Fact: Service dogs are allowed in all public places where people are permitted, thanks to the ADA law that states “ Under the ADA, State and local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that serve the public generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is allowed to go”

In the state of Illinois, service dogs in training are also allowed in public- our volunteers that have completed the needed training to handle our dogs in public! “ In Illinois, the Service Animal Access Act and White Cane Law guarantee the right of individuals with disabilities and service animal trainers to be accompanied by a service animal or service animal in training in public places”
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Thank you to our volunteers!

Thank you to our volunteers!🐾❣️

We would like to say a HUGE thank you to everyone who volunteers their time to help keep our program running smoothly! Without our amazing volunteers we wouldn’t be able to do what we do! We are so very thankful for each and every one of you!🐕‍🦺
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

From Ace and David adventures:

DOG DIARY❤🐾

From Ace and David adventures:

Ace and I went to support disabilities at a youth volleyball match. We also went to Star Wars night with the Peoria Rivermen hokey team. Ace has a job to do for me, he does so spectacularly. Ace and I have now partnered for 18 months, I am continually impressed by your training. We do work at training to keep sharp. Ace is a stellar ambassador for Service Dogs and their ability to assist those with disabilities.

Go Team Ace!!
PGI Ace
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#PawsGivingIndependence #ServiceDogJourney #ServiceDogTraining #HelpingPaws #ServiceDogsInAction #LifeChangingDogs #ServiceDogsInTraining #ChangingLivesOnePawAtATime

Myth: Service dogs never get to have fun or enjoy

Myth: Service dogs never get to have fun or enjoy playtime.

Fact: Service dogs love playtime, relaxation, and bonding with their furry and human friends! Our page is full of our pups being silly and enjoying playing with their friends!

#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #servicedogfacts

Myth: Service dogs do not need ongoing training!

Myth: Service dogs do not need ongoing training!

Service dogs and service dogs in training need ongoing training! Our PGI working service dogs attend yearly training and outings! This gives the dogs a chance to polish up on some skills with their recipient outside of their normal work!

Great work teams with everything and your continued dedication❤️🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

THANK YOU!! Thank you to Forever Home Resale Sho

THANK YOU!!

Thank you to Forever Home Resale Shop for donating harnesses, leashes, grooming supplies, bowls, and so much more to PGI and Helping Paws Program! It is greatly appreciated and all of our service dogs and service dogs in training will put it all to great use❤️🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Upcoming Event!! Sunday, March 30th- swing on do

Upcoming Event!!

Sunday, March 30th- swing on down to Tres Rojas for a midday pick me up of Twirl & Sip!! Some proceeds benefit PGI ❤️🐾

TICKET INFO:
Use the link and scroll down to March 30th event( there are multiple events), click “get tickets”, purchase your tickets, then await for the exciting day!

LINK: https://www.youngdanceinc.com/

Thank you to Young Dance Inc. for choosing Paws Giving Independence to donate too!
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Congratulations to Team Bunker on pa

CONGRATS🥳

Congratulations to Team Bunker on passing their annual recertification ADI test! They can now continue making a change in the community❤️🐾

Go Team Bunker🤩🦮
Bunker the Facility Dog
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

What’s the difference between a working dog and

What’s the difference between a working dog and a pet?!

Benny (first picture) is one of PGI’s working pups in training! A working/assistance dog is a dog that has been individually trained to perform work or tasks to assist a person with a disability. These dogs must pass a public access test granting them access to public places that animals are not allowed in and usually require about two years of training before being placed with a recipient!

Ivy (second picture) is one of PGI’s career-reassigned pups now living as a family pet! She now enjoys her days at home with her family and only visits pet friendly places, like Petsmart and Homegoods! Ivy does not need to perform specific tasks to help her family and is just a companion. Pets are not allowed in public places, like grocery stores, and public access is meant for working teams only.

It is crucial that pets remain in the home or in pet friendly places to protect the safety of both assistance dogs and their handler!
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Did you know you can support Paws Giving

🐾💙 Did you know you can support Paws Giving Independence with every Kroger purchase?🛒

It's easy and there is no cost to you! Just link your Kroger card to Paws Giving Independence through their Community Rewards Program. Log into Kroger.com, access your account, and select Paws Giving Independence as your Community Reward charity. Don't have a card? Grab one at any service desk and create an account. Not only do you save on Kroger purchases with the card, but every purchase you make helps us to receive a donation. Please tell your friends!!!

#PawsGivingIndependence #CommunitySupport #Kroger #KrogerCommunityRewards

Myth: Service dogs are just pets. Fact: Service

Myth: Service dogs are just pets.

Fact: Service dogs are specially trained to assist people with disabilities. They are working animals that preform crucial task everyday. However, service dogs still enjoy (and need) time to decompress, play, and be silly!

#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #servicedogfacts

Welcome PGI newest service dog in

NEW PUPPY‼️

Welcome PGI newest service dog in training!! We would like to thank Puppy in Flight volunteer with American Airlines Diane for helping with the successful transport to his puppy raiser!

Thank you KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc for trusting us with his training and care ❤️🐾
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Myths vs. Facts March is all about debunking myt

Myths vs. Facts

March is all about debunking myths about service dogs and service dogs in training! Stay tuned this month as we reveal the facts and share how service dogs and service dogs in training train to truly help their handlers❤️🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Congratulations!! Congratulations to our newest

Congratulations!!

Congratulations to our newest student trainer at Wags for Mags for successfully completing their testing and certification to work with our dogs in vest❤️🐾

Thank you for being apart of PGIs mission to change a lives, one service dog at a time!!
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

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Contact Info

Donna Kosner

Email: dkosner@givingindependence.org

Phone: 309.839.2754

©Paws Giving Independence 2024. All rights reserved.

PO BOX 9572 Peoria, IL 61612-9572

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