We first met Yori in the fall of 2010. He’s a service dog helping autistic nonverbal students in Elizabeth Olson’s Hope Elementary School.

In May, the class got to meet and thank Donna and Abbie Specht, who raised Yori as a puppy. Volunteers with Canine Companions for Independence care for the service dogs from 8 weeks old until they are approximately 16-20 months old before returning them to CCI’s regional office in Oceanside. Saying goodbye to Yori and their latest dog, Hendrix, hasn't been easy for Donna and Abbie.

"As hard as it is to turn the puppies in, it’s so heartwarming to see what they can do—the impact they make. That really is why we do it," explains Donna.

Olson is forever grateful. "For me to get to meet them and say thank you was just huge. I can’t put into words what a gift he’s been."

Yori is in the running for the American Humane Association’s Hero Dog Awards. If you wish to vote for Yori, click here.