EL CENTRO — Access to Independence hosted a Service Dog Awareness and Resource Fair on September 30 at the El Centro Library, bringing together law enforcement, trainers, and community partners to educate the public about the roles of service, therapy, and emotional support animals.

Daniel Flores, program manager for Access to Independence, said the event was designed to clear up any confusion many community members have about the differences between various support dogs.

“It’s a time to educate the community on what a service dog is, what a therapy dog is, and what a comfort dog is,” Flores explained. He added that while the organization doesn’t directly register animals, it helps guide them through the process and connect them with resources, such as Imperial County K-9 Institute.

Flo

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