When Elli became a Puppy Raiser for Dogs for Better Lives (DBL), she embarked on a journey filled with challenges, growth, and pride. Raising Star, who is now in professional Service Dog training at DBL’s Northeast Campus, was a rewarding experience for Elli—and her story highlights the heart and dedication it takes to be a Puppy Raiser.
A Proud Puppy Mom Moment

Elli shares a snuggle with Star, early in their journey together
“My favorite story from my time with Star was when she first mastered the cue, ‘outside,’ by ringing the bell at the door. It took a long time for her to grasp the concept, but with hard work and patience, Star learned how to tell us when she needed to go outside. It was truly amazing to see her brain grasp the training over the months we had her and watch her grow into a brilliant Service Dog. It was truly a proud mom moment for me,” Elli shared.
A Passion for Helping Others
For Elli, becoming a Puppy Raiser wasn’t just about raising a dog—it was about joining a mission that aligned with her own passion for supporting individuals with disabilities.
“I am currently going back to school to receive my Master’s degree in Special Education. I have always had a passion for helping children with disabilities. When I learned that Dogs for Better Lives helped children with the use of Autism Assistance Dogs, I immediately wanted to join their team. It warmed my heart to know that there is a program out there that wants to train Service Dogs to help not only adults but children as well,” she said.
Overcoming the Challenge of Letting Go

Star patiently waits for her cue during a training outing with Elli.
Many people wonder how Puppy Raisers can give the dog up after 14-16 months. For Elli, this was a difficult question to answer. “To be honest, no one can prepare you for the day you have to say goodbye to the dog you trained and watched mature for the past year. After all, they do become a part of your family,” she said.
One thing that gave Elli perspective about Star leaving for professional training was knowing what great things she is going to do for someone who needs her support and guidance.
“Every time I saw Star grow and master her cues, I knew she would use those tools to help someone in the future. I am grateful for my time with her and, as hard as it was to say goodbye, I am proud of how far she has come and I am eager to see what happens in the next chapter of her life,” said Elli.
Though saying goodbye is tough, Elli’s perspective shows how focusing on the impact these dogs will have can ease the transition.
A Supportive Community
The support Elli received made all the difference in her journey as a Puppy Raiser, helping her balance responsibilities while building a strong connection with the DBL team.
“There has been an immense amount of support from DBL throughout my time working with them. Donna was amazing in helping prepare me for a new puppy and supplying me with tons of toys, grooming supplies, and supplements. She always checked up on me to make sure Star and I were doing well and helped me if I had a question about Star’s training and care,” she said.
“I’m also grateful for Michael for finding a way for me to raise another future Service Dog this Spring. DBL is more than just a program, they are a community. I am very pleased to have met such kind and considerate people while volunteering to raise future Service Dogs.”The
Reward of Giving Back

Future Service Dog Star works on her down stay command
For Elli one way she stays connected to Star is by watching DBL’s Dog Blog, an exclusive site for Puppy Raisers.
“The most rewarding part of raising a DBL puppy is seeing how they flourish in their training after you give them up.”
“Whenever I check her status on the Dog Blog, it brings tears to my eyes to see her check off the boxes of training stages she has mastered with her new trainer. I am so proud of her and seeing her succeed makes all the difficult days I may have once had when she was just a puppy all worth it.”
Elli’s commitment to DBL goes beyond raising Star—it’s about the difference she knows her efforts will make.
“Many people also ask me why I would want to volunteer for this program if I am not receiving compensation from it. For me, the money is not what matters. I would volunteer no matter what just because of the amazing experience it is to raise a Service Dog to help someone out there. It is an indescribable feeling to know that what I did to prepare this dog for their future person is going to make a difference. I made a difference. There is no better feeling than to know that I am making a positive impact in this world. That’s all that I can ask for!”
Join the Puppy Raising Program

Star working on her training program with Elli.
Elli’s story captures the heart of what it means to be a Puppy Raiser: dedication, resilience, and the joy of knowing you’re changing lives. If you’re considering becoming a Puppy Raiser, Elli’s journey offers inspiration and insight into how rewarding the experience can be.
To learn more about volunteering as a Puppy Raiser during Puppy Love Month this February, visit our website. Together, we can train more amazing Service Dogs like Star and help create brighter futures for those in need.