Putnam Service Dogs

06/03/2026

Holly said, “You lift. I’ll lie here supportively.”

While trainer Adrienne gets her reps in at the gym, Holly is getting her own training reps in too — practicing calm focus, settling in, and learning how to stay steady in a busy environment.

Different workout. Same dedication. 💪

05/27/2026

8 months old. Big ears. Big focus. Big “I got it!” energy. 🐾

Isaac is learning to retrieve with our trainer Adrienne, and yes — it’s as cute as it looks. But this training is actually a big step toward future service dog skills, not a game of fetch.

Today: learn to hold an object and bring it back
Someday: help someone live with more independence.

Go, Isaac, go! 💙

You can learn more about our retrieval training process with insights from Adrienne here: https://www.putnamservicedogs.org/.../how-to-train-a-dog.../
See less

05/26/2026

A dropped phone. A set of keys just out of reach. A piece of mail on the floor.

Small moments can become big barriers.

That’s where retrieval training comes in.

At Putnam, our rescue dogs learn how to pick up, carry, and return everyday items with care and confidence. It may look simple when it’s finished, but behind every retrieve is patience, repetition, trust, and a dog learning how to make daily life more manageable for their future partner.

Take a closer look at the training behind everyday independence:
https://www.putnamservicedogs.org/blog/dog-retrieval-training-the-skill-behind-everyday-independence/

Dog retrieval training teaches service dogs to pick up, carry, and deliver everyday items safely. Learn how Putnam Service Dogs builds this skill with rescue dogs.

05/13/2026

Happy trainers. Happy dogs. Stronger teams.

Iceman and Ike are both still under a year old, but they’re already learning the most important part of service dog training: trust.

Training works best when dogs feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.

And these two? They’re off to a pretty great start.

05/11/2026

Haiden is working with his raiser, Fern — and one day, Fern will also become his recipient.

With a newer hybrid model, some applicants can spend time raising a service dog puppy as part of their own journey toward partnership. Fern will raise Haiden for 6+ months, helping him build the foundations he needs before graduation.

Once they complete training and pass the Public Access Test, Haiden will officially become Fern’s service dog.

This model can help shorten wait times while supporting the larger mission of raising and placing more service dogs.

For applicants who are open to raising a pup for a period of time, this can be a meaningful way to be part of the process from the very beginning.

Learn more about raising a service dog puppy: https://www.putnamservicedogs.org/get-involved/volunteer-to-be-a-puppy-raiser/

05/06/2026

For the last 10 years, rescue dogs have become life-changing service partners, independence has been restored, and a community of supporters has helped lift up lives together.

This June, were celebrating a decade of stories, partnerships, and purpose.

Join us for an unforgettable evening at our Gala featuring:

🐾 Service dog teams
🐾 Dogs currently in training
🐾 Dinner & cocktails
🐾 Silent auction
🐾 Dancing & celebration

Most importantly, you’ll experience firsthand the impact behind every partnership, every placement, and every life changed.

🎟️ Tickets + sponsorships available now: https://www.putnamservicedogs.org/events/anniversary-gala/

05/05/2026

Stairs are the focus for Iceman right now.

At 11 months old, he’s learning to take them one step at a time—and ignore those tasty sandwiches left on the ground, too.😉

He’s back from three months at Rutgers University and currently staying with our trainer, Wendi as he keeps working through his next set of skills.