A Dog's Life: In Training to Serve

Clifton family's effort will benefit others

Someone with special needs will soon have a better life, thanks to the efforts of a Clifton, Virginia, family.

Michele and Mark Masters are training Sara Lee as a service dog. Sara Lee will be part of their family for about a year-and-a-half before being placed.
 
The Masters are teaching Sara Lee more than two dozen commands -- a lot more than just "sit."
 
Sara Lee also must learn extreme control, like not to eat food from the floor.
 
The Masters are training Sara Lee for the group Canine Companions for Life. It's not known yet exactly where Sara Lee will be placed.
 
Another dog groomed through the same organization is now serving the Prince William County Department of Social Services.

Michele Masters told the Fairfax Times  her motivation for training service dogs started with an observation on a flight.

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