OCEANSIDE (CBS 8) - Canine Companions for Independence held a special ceremony in Oceanside Friday, pairing dozens of assistance dogs with their new owners.
The event was a graduation for service dogs after they completed an intense, two-week team training program.
Canine Companions for Independence is a nonprofit organization that provides service dogs free of charge in an effort to make everyday life easier for adults and children with physical and developmental disabilities.
"One of my favorite things is the companionship side. Just her being able to be there when I'm out in public and whatnot. It just kind of relieves some of the tensions I have as people stare and are not sure how to approach me," service dog recipient Michael Johnston said.
Volunteers were also recognized Friday for raising the Canine Companions puppies for the past 14 to 16 months.