Churchill, a cairn terrier, and his owner, Andrew McLaughlin, worked together on a long training lead at the Free Recall Clinic in Powder House Park on January 17 with City Dog Training. More photos are available on flickr.com.

In canine obedience training the ability to call your dog and get an immediate response at all times is known as "recall." A reliable recall can save your dog's life. Also, a dog that reliably comes when called is less likely to approach passer-by who may be fearful of dogs or simply uninterested in being approached by dogs.

This was the second free recall clinic offered by City Dog Training. The first was held in Nunziato Field in November. A third clinic is planned for March. The Somerville Dog Owners Group in partnership with the Somerville Youth and Recreation Commission co-sponsors the clinics.