If flies and lizards prove to be such wondrous distractions, what's it going to take for the Vicktory dogs to ignore a whole other dog? Practice. Lots and lots of practice.

Here's why all the practice is necessary in the first place. One main hurdle the Vicktory dogs must clear before they can be considered for homes is to pass the Canine Good Citizen test (or CGC). The CGC is a test that gauges basic training as well as how effectively a dog can listen to his or her person. Tricks like rolling over or playing dead aren't going to count for much. It's a test of obedience, not athleticism.

Here's one test from the CGC that might explain things further. In this test, the handler has a dog on a leash. Another person, a stranger, waits with an unfamiliar dog also on a leash. For the test, the two people have to walk up to one another and shake hands—with the testing dog ignoring the other person and dog entirely. Sounds simple enough, right? But it's not. Ignoring means they can't even say hello.

Remember, the Vicktory dogs are still so fascinated by bugs, lizards, rabbits, and other critters that they can barely get through a walk these days without lunging off the path in excitement. Which presents a two-fold challenge. Another part of CGC requires loose leash walking. It's been hard for them to walk on a loose leash when so many other things catch their attention.

So far, most of the Vicktory dogs are still busy discovering all the cool new things around them. They're not ready to start ignoring anything yet! But it's worth the effort to get them there. The real value of the CGC process is in the nature of the training. The CGC program teaches dogs to focus on their person and to think things through. To pay attention to cues and listen accordingly, rather than act on instinct or impulse.

The caregivers and trainers at Best Friends are a patient group. They know it will be a long road but they're willing to walk it right along with the Vicktory dogs. It might take a little while to get there, but if nothing else it's sure to be a fun ride!