New Milford Couple Raises Puppy To Make A Difference

NEW MILFORD, N.J. – Robert and Ann Benson have a new roommate in their New Milford home.

<p>Robert and Ann Benson of New Milford pose with their dog, Hannon.</p> — Robert and Ann Benson of New Milford pose with their dog, Hannon.
Photo Credit: *Contributed*

10/17/2017 5:30 a.m.

But only temporarily.

For the coming months, the couple will be raising an assistance-dog in training for Canine Companions for Independence, a non-profit that provides assistance-dogs for children, adults and veterans with disabilities.

The puppy – a Labrador Retriever named Hannon – will one day know over 40 advanced commands, and be matched with a person with disabilities.

Puppy raisers, as the organization refers to them, take puppies into their homes at 8 weeks old and teach them basic commands and socialization skills.

When the dogs reach about 18 months old, they are returned to the organization’s regional headquarters, where they begin 6 months of professional training, and are then matched with a person with disabilities.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

Click here to follow Daily Voice Bergenfield and receive free news updates.