LIBERTY, NY — Guiding Eyes for the Blind, known around the globe as one of the foremost guide dog schools, has announced the opening of its newest puppy raising region in Sullivan County. The nonprofit is inviting residents to open their homes to raise a future guide dog puppy. An open house will be held on Monday, December 8 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Liberty Senior Center.

The volunteers welcome eight week-old puppies into their homes and teach them basic obedience and house manners and provide numerous socialization opportunities. They receive full support from the nonprofit, including training classes and free vet care. Ultimately they send the pups off to their calling as guide dogs for men or women who are blind or visually impaired.

At the open house event, prospective volunteers will have the opportunity to learn more about the program and meet some pups. Those wishing to move forward and become puppy raisers will be invited to attend an orientation series on January 5, 12 and 26. Potential raisers must attend all three classes.

The Liberty Senior Center is located at 119 North Main St. in Liberty. To RSVP for the open house or to learn more about the Sullivan puppy raising region, contact Nicole Guite at 845/230-6406 or nguite@guidingeyes.org. For additional information on Guiding Eyes’ Puppy Raising Program, call 1-866-GEB-LABS or visit www.guidingeyes.org/volunteer/puppy-raising.