An assistance dog class for families of children with autism started here at the Centre this week. People often ask us whether we're sad when the dogs we have been caring for the last few months go on class? Even though we do get very attached to our dogs in training, we are always thrilled when they get handed over to their new owners.  This just confirms the purpose of our work.  It's really exciting to see how our clients progress during the week and to hear how the dogs affect and improve the whole family's life after they leave the Centre. It's especially rewarding because we get to know each pup so well over the first two years of its life and we get to see just how much time and effort is put in by everyone, from our volunteer puppy walkers, to our trainers and kennel staff.  When you think of that, it's not too hard to let any thoughts of missing a dog you have cared for be swept away.  Especially when you see the look of accomplishment on an Assistance Dog owner's face when they mastered a 'heel' or 'sit' instruction with their new dog!