DOGS MUST UNDERGO TESTS TO PARTICIPATE

Sadie the basset hound couldn't care less. Those people poking at her at Capaha Park and making funny noises were no bother.

Sunny, the blond golden retriever, rolled over on her back, as if encouraging the strangers to pet her more.

Pansy, the rottweiler awaiting her chance to show off her talents at the skills testing session, nuzzled happily against anyone that would offer her the chance.

Mitzi, an 11-year-old mixed breed with sure signs of spaniel in her, cozied up to every offered hand. Mitzi was adopted from the humane society when she was 3.

Sadie, Sunny, Pansy and Mitzi were among several animals of many breeds and backgrounds that underwent testing on a recent Saturday, on their way to becoming Pet Pals.

Yvonne Romann of Perryville, put her son's dog, Sam, through the moves. Sam and Romann have been involved in a Perryville program similar to Pet Pals. Romann has been assisting in the coordination of the Pet Pal training program.

The first test concentrated on skills. In it, the animal's training and obedience to the handler were measured, explained Carla Karr, a humane society volunteer who is spearheaded the training program. The second test involved aptitude and analyzed the animal's temperament.

Several dogs and one cat took part in the testing.

"I know how much my animals mean to me. I think there are people who feel the same as I do but can for one reason or another no longer have animals in their lives, so I'm sharing mine with them," Karr said.

Along with Karr and Annie, several other volunteers -- both animal and human -- are ready to share, too.