When Anna Penn takes Flopsee, her 18-month-old dog, for a walk, it often seems like the other way around. It's the energetic golden doodle that thinks she's taking her owner on a walk.
"She pulls really hard on a leash," Penn said.
So she decided to go to Sunday's Paw-Tastic Dog Training event at the Jefferson City Jaycees Cole County Fairgrounds.
The event was sponsored by K9s on the Front Line. Jason Howe, the organization's Midwest coordinator and service dog handler, worked with Penn and Flopsee to give her more control over her dog.
"I feel like she's listening a little better," Penn said at the end of the program. "He gave us some homework. It's a really awesome program that he has."
K9s on the Front Line is a not-for-profit organization that's had a Jefferson City presence since June. It provides fully trained Post Traumatic Stress Disorder service dogs to military veterans who are affected by PTSD and/or traumatic brain injury, at no cost to veterans.
Howe is a veteran who served five years in the Navy, then suffered from PTSD when he returned home. He worked with K9s in the Navy, and now wants to use that experience to help other veterans who are returning home.
The dog training class costs $75 for six weeks, and the money goes back to the organization.
Howe said the goal is to keep the cost low. "I'd rather have 1,000 doges in public that are well-behaved than make a lot of money," he said.
K9s on the Front Line will hold a March 21 fundraising gala at Capitol Plaza Hotel. The $60 cost includes a prime rib dinner and live and silent auctions. To register, visit Eventbrite.com and type in "Show Me Honor Mo."
Tony Giuliana has been bringing Ollie, his 6-month-old golden retriever, to the classes for awhile now. He said the program has helped teach Ollie some basic commands.
"He needs all the training he can get, because he has youthful exuberance," Giuliana said. "He has his own mind, so sometimes listening isn't his strong suit."
Lori Fowler brings Nova, her 8-month-old German shepherd, to the classes because she can't control Nova like her son, Dalton, can.
The trainers, she said, give her practical ideas that help. They have taught her to put Nova to one side of her and hold out a snack when training her to walk properly on a leash.
"K9s on the front Line is a great organization," she said.