K9 Jersey and my wife Deputy Jen Yuhase hit the Franklin County Fairgrounds today for joint training with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus Division of Police, and a long list of other agencies from across the state. I wasn’t there to dodge flying fur or muddy paws, but Jen and Jersey represented well, like they always do. The reports coming back sounded like a reunion—old friends catching up, new faces learning fast, and veteran dogs reminding the rookies who runs the yard.

Jersey apparently showed off her seasoned moves, and Jen got to trade stories with other handlers, the kind that only people who’ve been bitten, barked at, and adored in equal measure can tell. It’s more than just training—it’s a reminder that behind every K9 team is a whole network of officers, trainers, and dogs working their tails off (literally) to keep things running right. For those curious about what kind of madness goes into these sessions, there’s a wealth of info at K9 Handler Resources—worth a look if you’re into the science behind the slobber.

Big thanks to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office for hosting and pulling so many agencies together for a day that actually makes a difference. Watching these K9s and their handlers work—especially when one of them happens to be my wife—makes you realize this isn’t just a job, it’s a calling!