The PAWS program at the Ron Jackson State Juvenile Correctional Complex pairs TJJD youth with K-9 partners, who come from the Corinne T. Smith Animal Shelter, for 12 weeks. During this time, the dogs learn basic commands, improve their socialization skills and earn the American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizenship certification. Youth learn empathy, compassion and responsibility. They are responsible for their dogs at all times and do all the feeding, grooming and training. The dogs live on the dorms with the students.
Nakita is a year and a half old Malamute Husky mix who weighs in at about 40 lbs. She is a very special dog who needs some time to warm up and build trust because of her history. Once Nakita does bond, she is a “one-person” dog. Nakita is very loving and friendly; she is happy to just go along with whatever is going on for the day. She would do best in a home with adults where she is the only animal. Like every “PAWS” dog Nakita has achieved her Canine Good Citizenship Certification and knows all the basic commands. She is kennel-trained and house-broken. Students have invested a lot of time and care into Nakita’s training and would really like to see her in a great home.
