Service dogs graduate in top form

February 23, 1997
Web posted at: 11:15 p.m. EST

SANTA ROSA, California (CNN) -- About 50 dogs marched across the stage in a special graduation ceremony Sunday.

The dogs were trained to be companions for people with physical disabilities other than blindness.

Dogs graduating

672K/17 sec. QuickTime movie

Volunteer trainers with the group "Canine Companions for Independence" turned the dogs over to their new owners in an emotional ceremony.

"Just attending these graduation ceremonies gives me a sense of meaning that defies any description I could give," said trainer Scott McKelvey.

The group has been training service dogs since 1975.

CNN affiliate KTVU contributed to this report.

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