Puppy Raiser / Trainer Since: 2013
Karen lives in Muskego, Wisconsin and enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse and Nursing Manager at Columbia-St. Mary’s Hospital. She graduated with her BSN from UW-Milwaukee and received her MSM (Masters of Science in Management) from Cardinal Stritch University. She is recently retired and volunteers several days a week, taking her WAGS pup with her. In addition to raising and training dogs for WAGS, she and her husband John enjoy spending time with friends and family. The support and assistance from her husband John enhances her experience as a volunteer puppy raiser & trainer.
Why WAGS? Service dogs of all types have always impressed me with their dedication to service and awesome skills. When I began to investigate how I could be part of something special, I came across WAGS and found that their mission matched my own values. The reward of guiding and teaching a small puppy obedience, socialization and specialized skills until they are mature enough to be matched with someone who will rely on them is incredible. Watching the dog begin to learn a new skill and helping them grow to master it is a wonderful journey. And when its time, I don’t focus on ‘giving them up’, but rather relishing their success and knowing they are where they are supposed to be. I encourage anyone who wants to make a real difference in someone’s life (and your own!) to consider being a volunteer Puppy Raiser/Trainer for WAGS.