There’s something magical about pre-match day at Canine Companions. It’s a moment when years of anticipation culminates in meeting the dog who will become an integral part of your family’s story.

The training team approaches each match with such intention and care. You could feel the excitement building in the room as each person was introduced to their future partner. Even though it’s technically a pre-match, there was nothing preliminary about the emotions in the room. Watching each person meet their dog was deeply moving – a reminder that these partnerships are about so much more than just assistance. They’re about connection, independence, and new beginnings.

What strikes me most is how uniquely suited each match seems to be. The training team’s deep understanding of both the dogs’ personalities and each recipient’s needs shines through in these thoughtfully crafted partnerships. While we’re all here for different reasons, there’s a common thread of hope and possibility that binds us together.

As we spent the afternoon learning commands and recipients beginning to bond with their matches, you could see partnerships starting to form. But the learning doesn’t stop when formal training ends. Each evening, many of us gather in the kitchen, sharing stories, asking questions, and supporting each other through this journey. These informal moments are just as valuable as the structured training – it’s where we learn from each other’s experiences, share concerns, and celebrate small victories.

There’s something special about being surrounded by people who get it – who understand both the challenges and the possibilities that come with having a service dog. Whether someone’s journey looks like yours or offers a completely different perspective, there’s so much to learn from each other.

As I reflect on this significant day, I’m struck by how this experience is about more than just the recipient receiving a service dog. It’s about becoming part of a community that understands, supports, and celebrates each person’s journey toward greater independence and inclusion.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this incredible journey together.