Volunteer with PGI - Paws Giving Independence - Paws Giving Independence

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Volunteer with PGI

Did you want to get involved in PGI? We have many opportunities and would love your help!

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.

DOB:

Are you over 18 years old?

Email *

Phone *

Current Address *

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State

Zip Code

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.

Do you own your home? *

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.

I live in a

Single family home
Townhouse
Apartment
Other

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

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

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.

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

Yes
No

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?

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) *

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. *

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

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

How did you find out about our organization?

Direct mail
Advertisement
Online Search
Friend / Family
Business Colleague
Other

If other…

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 *

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.

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

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

DOG DIARY🐾📚 Message from Ace and David: I

DOG DIARY🐾📚

Message from Ace and David:

In our first year, I have improved my health. I still push and fall. Ace gets me back up, physically and mentally. I have had several other people recovering from a stroke or working with someone recovering ask, "How do you get going again?" My simple response is, "I get up." Get up, then you can do the next step. At one point getting up for me was exhaustingly moving one finger on my left hand. With Ace, I get up and get out. What is next? I am not sure, but it'll be fun.

From Ace;
I can sleep anywhere. I rest to be ready for anything that is needed! We recently spent hours and days in the hospital. I was the star in maternity ward, while we waited for our granddaughter! I brought smiles and refreshed all the hospital staff members. We had a second longer hospital stay with my dad’s mom. Everyone was amazed how calm I was during the long days. When David and i volunteer to help with Seniors, schools, and other places- my dad says that I am just as helpful, if not more helpful, to the staff❤️🐾
PGI Ace
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

🐾 A huge THANK YOU to Rescue Pack and proplan f

🐾 A huge THANK YOU to Rescue Pack and proplan for helping us keep our hardworking service dogs happy and healthy with high-quality, reasonably priced food! 🦴🐶

Your support ensures our four-legged heroes have the nutrition they need to thrive as they train and work. We’re so grateful for your dedication to making a difference in their lives! 💛💙

#PawsGivingIndependence #ServiceDogs #GratefulHearts #Purina #RescuePack purina purina Purina

🎁🐾 Looking for a way to spread some holiday

🎁🐾 Looking for a way to spread some holiday cheer? Our Helping Paws prison program would be so grateful for your support this season!

If you’d like to send a gift, here are their holiday wish lists:

📦 Supply Donation: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2OOFWKV69GLM?ref_=wl_share

📚 Reading List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/12MVYATIBY979?ref_=wl_share

Gifts can be shipped directly off amazon but can’t be for specific dogs/ trainers- they will go to the general group! Feel free to include a note to brighten their day! 💌

Your generosity makes a difference in training service dogs and supporting the program participants. Thank you for helping us spread kindness this holiday season! 🐕❤️

#HelpingPaws #HolidayGiving #ServiceDogs #CommunitySupport

Talk about style! 🤩 Benny wants to show off hi

Talk about style! 🤩

Benny wants to show off his sweater. lt even features his favorite animal, squirrels! Who said service dogs in training can’t have style? If you ask us, he’s rockin’ it! 🐿️
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgiho

DOG DIARY 🐾📚 From Agnes: I have become th

DOG DIARY 🐾📚

From Agnes:

I have become the mascot & best friends to all of the students at the school I am a facility dog at!! I attend recess and chase and retrieves balls most of the day. Last year my handler and I took our school picture together and they put my name in the yearbook as Agnes Hayes❤️
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#pgi #servicesdog #pgidogs #service #servicedogintrainingpuppy #servicedogintraining

We are so grateful to Uftring Automall and Uftring

We are so grateful to Uftring Automall and Uftring Subaru for choosing PGI as one of their local charities again this year for the Subaru of America, Inc.Share the Love Event.

Over the years Subaru has donated over $60,000 to PGI through this program. If you buy a Subaru from Uftring Subaru between now and January 2nd and choose Paws Giving Independence as your charity we will receive a donation of $300 per car. Please share and help to support our service dogs in training. Uftring has been one of our longest running community partners. We appreciate their continued support!!

LINK FOR MORE INFO: https://www.subaru.com/our-commitment/share-the-love.html
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

🌟🐾 Meet the newest star of Paws Giving Indep

🌟🐾 Meet the newest star of Paws Giving Independence! 🐶✨

Our amazing Helping Paws groomers have worked their magic again, giving this sweet pup a well-deserved spa day to look and feel his best! 🛁✂️ From paw-dicures to a shiny coat, he’s ready to shine as he begins his journey in the PGI family.

Stay tuned as this little one grows, learns, and prepares to change lives! 💛

#HelpingPaws #PGIFamily #ServiceDogInTraining #SpaDayPup #ShinyAndNew

Holiday Parties🎅🏼 If you are hosting holida

Holiday Parties🎅🏼

If you are hosting holiday parties with many guests this season it is important to introduce your dogs to new people properly!

You Should:
1. Take it slow! Don’t rush the dogs into approaching new people.
2. Let dogs approach on their own time! Don’t force them to approach new people if they seem uncomfortable!
3. Introduce them one at a time or in small groups! Introducing a dog to many new people at a time could overwhelm them!

Following these steps can help your holiday parties go smoothly for you and your pups!🐾🎄
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #holidayguests #dogmanners #petfreindly

Holiday Season❤️🐾 As the holiday season qu

Holiday Season❤️🐾

As the holiday season quickly approaches, here's a reminder of foods to keep out of reach of our curious four-legged friends!

For a full list of foods that are safe and unsafe for dogs, follow this link: https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/health/nutrition/holiday-human-foods-dogs-can-and-cant-eat
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

DOG DIARY🐾📚 From Gunner: I am a shining

DOG DIARY🐾📚

From Gunner:

I am a shining light at The Mary Culver Home for the Visually Impaired. In my role as a facility dog, I spread warmth and happiness to everyone that meets me. With my sweet demeanor and loving nature, I bring comfort to residents and staff alike, fostering a sense of connection and joy throughout the home. My ability to brighten a room is truly special, and my presence has become an integral part of the community. I am not just a dog; I’m a cherished friend to all.

The Mary Culver Home for the Visually Impaired
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

Holiday Calm🎄 Holiday season can be stressful

Holiday Calm🎄

Holiday season can be stressful not only for us, but for service animals as well! Whether it be shopping, loud parties, or just the stress of the season sometimes a break is needed. It is important to have a quiet stress free environment for service animals incase they get overwhelmed! Whether it be a quiet place in a store or a comfy cozy kennel at home, service animals need somewhere calm so they can destress! 🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #dogretreat #holidaycalm

Tis’ the season! 🎄 As we decorate our homes

Tis’ the season! 🎄

As we decorate our homes or businesses for the holiday season, it is important to keep the decorations service dog friendly! Make sure to keep clear walkways that won’t interfere with their harnesses/leashes! Any place a service dog may need to access for their work should have a clear unblocked path! This will ensure the dogs can do their jobs safely and efficiently! Happy holidays! 🎅🏼🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #servicedogsafety #holidaydecor #servicedogcare

Congratulations 🐾❤️ Congrats to Mojo and h

Congratulations 🐾❤️

Congrats to Mojo and his handler for passing their level 1 test!

This allows them to train in public locations as they work towards final certification to be a working team😊🦮
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi

With the cold weather here, it’s important to kn

With the cold weather here, it’s important to know safety tips to keep your pup happy and healthy! ❄️

Consider boots for your pups! 🥾This helps protect their paws from the elements and also makes for a mess-free entrance back inside!

In subzero temperatures, dogs’ feet are at risk of frostbite on their pads! Make sure trips outside are short and wear boots!

Wipe paws at the end of the night to get off any salt left on their paws!

These are just one of the few ways to help keep your pup safe during the cold weather! Snow can be so much fun, but it’s important to remember pet safety! ❄️
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #servicedogsafety #holidaydecor #servicedogcare #petpawcare

Mark your calendars, next week Tuesday!🍔 Come

Mark your calendars, next week Tuesday!🍔

Come join us December 10th at Red Robin in East Peoria for a tasty fundraiser! 20% of all food sales will go directly to our organization. Simply show the flyer or mention the fundraiser to your server! For online carry-out orders, follow the instructions on the second page or the flyer! See you there! 🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #redrobin

Happy Howl-idays!🎄 As the holiday season comes

Happy Howl-idays!🎄

As the holiday season comes into full swing it is important to remember to respect service animals you may see at your holiday gatherings!🎅🏼

You SHOULD NOT approach the dogs without asking, take photos without permission, talk directly to the dogs, or try to feed the dogs! ❌ You SHOULD ask before petting, approach the handler first, and understand if the handler says “no”!✅

Tis’ the season and remember to be respectful of service animals this holiday season!🐾
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #servicedogetiquette #respectserviceanimals #holidaytips

GIVING TUESDAY! Giving Tuesday is TODAY! You can

GIVING TUESDAY!

Giving Tuesday is TODAY! You can make an impact by supporting Paws Giving Independence today.

Your donation empowers the training of service dogs that provide life-changing independence to individuals with disabilities. These incredible pups offer not just companionship but also essential assistance in daily tasks🐕❤️ Join us in creating a world where people with disabilities can enjoy greater freedom and a stronger bond with their furry companions. Give today and be a part of this incredible journey❤️🐾
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LINK TO DONATE: https://www.facebook.com/donate/907176851477981/?fundraiser_source=external_url

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

🐾 Puppy Public Access Alert! ‼️ Congratul

🐾 Puppy Public Access Alert! ‼️

Congratulations to Pepper for passing her level one access test! She is now allowed into public spaces with her vest! We are so proud of this pup and everyone who help her achieve this milestone!

Go Team Pepper 🐕‍🦺
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#servicesdogsintraining #pgidogs #dogs #servicedogs #servicedogsofinstagram #dogsofpeoria #pgi #pgiclover

December is here, and we’re excited to reflect o

December is here, and we’re excited to reflect on a year full of milestones, teamwork, and growth! At Paws Giving Independence, we’ve celebrated the hard work of our dedicated trainers, the support of our incredible community, and the achievements of our service dogs. This season, we’re focused on keeping both our four-legged and human friends ready for the holidays—with tips on safe décor, stress management, and routine care to ensure a joyful season for all! 🎄🐾✨ #HolidayPrep #ServiceDogCare #ThankfulForOurCommunity #pgidogs

🎉 Another ADI Public Access Test passed—great

🎉 Another ADI Public Access Test passed—great work, Sampson! 🐾👏 We’re so proud of all the hard work and dedication that went into this milestone. Next year he will be fully retiring! It’s great seeing a well working team! See their adventures Sampson the Service Dog in Science and watch Pax too!

#ServiceDogInTraining #PublicAccessTest #PGIProud”

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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