Canine Companions for Independence in Medford trains dogs to help disabled regain their independence
Dogs in Medford are helping people with disabilities regain their independence.
Canine Companions for Independence in Medford gave News 12 an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how exceptional dogs are matched up with students and then trained to live a life of service.
Students waited almost two years on a long candidate list to get partnered with a dog. Then, they lived with their dogs in dorms for two weeks during an intense boot camp training.
The service dogs learned up to 50 commands.
Students and their obedient four-legged friends graduated after the two-week training session.
Canine Companions for Independence doesn't charge for the dogs, training or follow-up classes.
For more on the dogs, watch the clip to the left or click News 12 Extra on Optimum TV channel 612.