I am a graduate of the FREEDOM TAILS Board & Train Program in partnership with Stafford Creek Corrections Center. This popular program pairs a duo of incarcerated individuals up with a PAWS of Grays Harbor pooch for 12 weeks. Each dog has a primary and secondary handler assigned to the same cell, giving the dog 24-hour care and attention to meet its needs. During their stay at SCCC, these dogs receive specialized training to prepare them for adoption to the public. At the end of their 12-week stay, they enjoy a special adoption ceremony with their new families to show off their skills as they start a new journey. Find out more at pawsgh.org/freedomtails.
5 River Highlights!
1. Walks really well
2. Is curious about new dogs-does well with off leash greetings
3. Good with strangers
4. Gets skittish when people run by him
5. Loves to cuddle
6/24/24
Balsamic here. Hey, I wanted to take a moment to talk about my buddy River. Man, he’s a cool cat(I mean dog). I wanna be just like him when I grow up. My handler is always saying what a good boy he is. He’s always doing his cues correctly, walking on leash so nicely, and minds his human so well. As much as I like this cat(I mean dog) he is kind of making me look bad. I bet he would love to come home with you and give you a chance to hang out with him. Boy, he sure would earn you some cool points. Not to mention, be your most loyal and best friend. I wish I could take him home with me, he is hands down the coolest can(I mean dog) in this joint. Balsamic out!
6/13/24
I wag my tail excitedly as I sit in my kennel, hoping today will be the day I find my forever home. I’ve been working hard at my training and learning cues that I hope will impress my future owner. I know I’m a catch; who wouldn’t want a handsome, intelligent, and loyal pup like me by their side?
I daydream about all of my future adventures I’ll go on with my new owner. Long walks, playtime in the yard, and snuggles on the couch will be the best.
I know I’ve got so much love to give and I can’t wait to find the perfect person or family to share it with. I’ll be a good boy and will always be happy to see you come home and ready for our next adventure. I’m River and I’m ready to find my forever home. Come meet me and see for yourself. -River
Hi there, I'm River, the goofiest pup around! Used to live by the river, hence the name. I ended up here at the shelter after chasing a squirrel, ended up in a doggy marathon, and couldn't find my way back! My love for pup cups is legendary, I can sniff them out from a mile away. I'm as sweet as they come, always ready for a cuddle and a game of chase! My jokes? Well, they're a bit ruff, but I guarantee they'll have you howling with laughter. I'm looking for a forever home where I can spread my joy and endless love. Adopt me, and let's create our own hilarious tales together!
4/25/24
I’ll never forget the day I was abandoned by the river. I was scared and alone, with no food or shelter. I had to fend for myself, searching for scraps and avoiding danger. But despite the hardships, I held onto hope that things would get better. One day, they did. One day I was caught and taken to a place I had never imagined - prison!
At first I was terrified, the loud noises and stern faces were overwhelming. But as the days passed, I realized this place was different. The people here are kind and gentle; they gave me food and attention. They even let me sleep inside. I felt warm and cozy. I began to feel a sense of belonging, I felt happy!
Now I spend my days playing with other dogs and getting endless belly rubs. The inmates tell me what a good boy I am. I can sense their own struggle and hardships, but despite our pasts we have found Joy and purpose in each other's company. I may have started my journey by a river and that's where I get my name, but I’m forever grateful for this new home and can’t wait to finally find my forever home.
05/09/24
I never thought I’d find myself in a place like this - prison dog training program. But it’s been a game changer for me. I’ve learned so much already, like how to sit and lay down on command! My favorite is when a handler says “down,” and I get to stretch out and relax. I love the “good boys” and treats I get when I do it right. The inmates give me lots of attention and I love that! I’m a quick learner and my handlers are impressed with my progress. I’m picking up new cues everyday like “stay,” “wait,” and “shake!” I like it when my handler hides treats and tells me to “find it” like a dog puzzle. I’m proud of myself and know I’m becoming a great companion for someone out there.
I may have started out as a stray by the river, but I’ve come a long way. I’m a loveable dog with a lot to give someone. I dream of finding a forever home. If you're out there please come visit me. I promise to sit and snuggle my way into your heart. I’m ready to bring joy and companionship to my human, will it be you?
River
5/23/24
" 10 Things You Should Know About Me"
#1 I love long walks and walk like a good boy. I pull a little bit but, just tell me "back" and I will back up to your side. You can also say "By me" and I'll reset and sit at your side.
#2 My name is River because they found me by the river. I don't mind water and I am good boy at bath time.
#3 I love my humans and I am good with kids. Other dogs I can leave or take. I love people and want to be petted a lot.
#4 I am a great house dog. I am potty trained and do not have accidents in the house. I do not get in the garbage, either!!
#5 I love treats and will do anything you want for a snack, two, or three!
#6 I love naps with my owners. Snuggling is mandatory, no exceptions!
#7 I am a smart dog and learn my commands quick. If you want me to do something, just ask.
#8 I love to run and play but when it is really sunny I like a cool spot in the shade to relax.
#9 I am really loyal and affectionate. I promise to bring smiles and doggy kisses to any home that wants to adopt me.
#10 I am 4 years old, so I have a lot of living to do. I hope it's in a forever home soon. Look at my pictures " I am a really good boy." Come visit me, it may change both our lives.
River
7/8/13
River, a handsome boy with a wagging tail, lays in his kennel dreaming of his forever home. In his dream he is surrounded by a loving owner, playing fetch and snuggling with his loved ones. He felt like he finally belonged.
As the sun rose over the prison, River’s dream faded away, he woke in his kennel. He stretched his legs and yawned, his tail slightly wagging. He thought to himself, “This could be the day I find my forever home!”
Despite the disappointment of not being adopted yet, River’s spirit is unbroken. He knows his forever home is out there. He is determined to find them. River shook off his slumber and barked loudly, as if to say, “ I’m ready, come find me!” His big brown eyes sparkled with determination, his tail wagged with excitement, waiting for the day his dream becomes a reality! This is River’s story
8/2/24
River, a curious and adventurous dog, loved nothing more than going on long walks with his owner. He would excitedly wait by the door, tail wagging, as soon as he sensed the leash being pulled out. As soon as they stepped outside, River would sniff and explore every nook and cranny, taking in all the sights and smells of the world around him.
Despite his energetic personality, River is well behaved on leash. He walks by his human’s side not pulling or tugging. River enjoys quality time with his human. He feels more alive on these walks. River is always ready for a good walk!
8/25/24
Hey, it’s Rive here. I am still sitting here in prison doggy school because I haven’t been adopted yet. It’s not because I am bad, in fact I am a good boy! I know all my cues, if you come see me I will do them all for you. I’ll sit, down, stand, wait, with me, and look. I also do by me, crate, place, stay, leave it, drop it, take it, up, off, back, go see, and my personal favorite “ Find It.” Yes, I’ll find all the treats.
I will be a good dog for you. If you want a handsome and well mannered Rottweiler..I am your guy!! Come visit me, I’ll be wagging my tail while I wait.
River
9/5/24
Woof!! My name is River and I’m a good boy - I promise!
I’ve been living in this prison for a while now, and I’m starting to lose hope. I dream of finding a forever home where I can snuggle up on the couch. I’m a gentle soul and I love people, but I have to admit I’m not fond of little humans (kids) - they can be loud and rowdy and are strange to me. I also don’t like other dogs that don’t understand personal space.
Despite these quirks, I’m a loyal companion and would thrive in a home with an owner that understands my needs. I love going on walks and discovering new places and am more comfortable when it is just me and my human. I’m a quick learner and know all of my commands; I’ll do whatever it takes to make my human happy.
If you’re looking for a devoted friend who will be by your side through thick and thin, I’m your guy! I promise to bring joy into your life - and love.
I can’t wait to meet my forever human. Is it you? Will you take a chance on me? I’ll be waiting here, wagging my tail and hoping for a second chance at a happy life.
Woof!
River
10/3/24
Hi, I’m River, and if you have been reading my story you already know I’m a good boy. I have learned all my commands and I still wait my turn as all the other dogs get adopted before me….but I’m doing well here in prison. I have a few dog friends and lots of humans who love me.
I know in my doggy heart that there will be a happy ending for this old hound dog. There is a human that wants me, are you that human? If so, please pick up the phone. I promise to bring some love into your life. I may have a bad past of abandonment but I still hold out hope that there is a forever home with my name on it. I’ll be waiting with my tail wagging.
Woof woof!
River
River 11/14
I’m River’s handler. I want to take this time to share with you what I have learned from this great dog…. If I had to sum it up in one word I’d say FRIENDSHIP! This friendship between man and dog goes all the way back to the stone age.
River embodies that loyal companionship. He is a true friend to his human. His friendship is also unconditional. He loves us for who we are. Dogs chose us humans thousands of years ago. They had an urge to be our friends. We have always sought friendship with dogs. River has shown me why.
If you are reading this, I urge you to come meet this great dog. Let him show you the kind of friend he is… I could tell you…but I want him to show you. He will be here with his tail wagging!!Please apply to adopt at: http://www.pawsgh.org
