The Wilmington-based paws4people foundation recently announced it has achieved its five-year reaccreditation by Assistance Dogs International (ADI).

ADI is the leading authority in the assistance dogs industry, according to a news release.

"It establishes and promotes standards of excellence in all areas of assistance dog acquisition, training and partnership. paws4people’s placement program is designed to provide customized assistance dogs to children, adolescents, and adults living with physical, neurological, psychiatric, or emotional disabilities," the release stated.

After training more than 1,300 assistance dogs with one or more certifications, paws4people "has walked alongside and supported clients in their recovery toward a normal life. Over the past 23+ years, paws4people has developed specialized training designed to offer a unique experience for every client," according to the release.

“We are proud to be recognized for adhering to the highest standards in all aspects of our operations, including ethical treatment and training of dogs, ethical treatment of clients, solid service dog training and follow-up care” said Kyria Henry Whisenhunt, founder and executive director, in the release. “It is an honor to be affiliated with outstanding service dog organizations that recognize the life-changing impact assistance dogs provide.”

Once accredited, an assistance dog organization becomes an official member of ADI, the release stated.