Use this space to discuss training issues -- brag about successes, lament setbacks or bounce a question off the group.

Saturday is a big day for Jillie and my wife, Kelly. They're taking their Pet Partners (formerly Delta Society) test in hopes of becoming a therapy dog team that can visit hospitals, etc. Kelly already passed the test with Eddie, but this would mean she has her choice of dogs on hospital visits. I have no doubt they're going to rock it. Kelly and Eddie got a far better score than Eddie and I did earlier this year.

A lot of people ask me what it takes for a dog to pass the therapy dog test. In a nutshell, it doesn't take an obedience champion. It just takes a dog that can walk on a loose leash, sit, stay, come and stay calm with a multitude of distractions.

Here are the stages they have to pass:

Stage 1: Pet Partners Skills test

Stage 2: Pet Partners Aptitude test

Most people tell me their biggest trepidation to taking the test is the reaction to neutral dog test. It can be tough, but you're allowed to talk to your dog throughout the exercise. If you've got a dog that listens to you, it's imminently doable.

If you're interested, there's more information at petpartners.org

But enough about my pack. What's up with your gang?