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the Freedom Tails Program
As of April 2023, we are thrilled to have the Freedom Tails program return to Stafford Creek Corrections Center after years on hiatus. 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 will enjoy a special adoption ceremony with their new families to show off their skills as they start a new journey.
We completed the 4th round of the program on July 3 with 15 dogs graduating. THREE DOGS STILL NEED HOMES: Smiley, River, and Molly. The 5th round of the program began August 8 with graduation on October 31, 2024.
the current Freedom Tails crew
Cheddar
![](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ched.jpeg)
Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever - 1 year old - 75 lbs - Male
ADOPTED!
Drew Barrymore
![](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/drewj.jpeg)
Pit Bull Terrier - 5 years old - 57 lbs - Female
ADOPTED!
Mochi
![](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/mochi.jpeg)
Dachshund - 11 months old - 30 lbs - Male
ADOPTED!
How to Adopt
Property Verification
We will reach out landlords for permission to adopt or verify property ownership with the county assessor.
Home Check
You will be provided a list of photos needed. We review these to help point out potential safety concerns to help you prepare for your new pooch.
Schedule a Meet
We may have you meet the dog at the SPCC parking lot or at the shelter. Other dogs in the home will also need to meet the dog.
Adopt
Pay and sign adoption paperwork. You will be invited to attend graduation day at SPCC.
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Updates from our Dogs
Hey everyone,
My name is Watson and I am here to tell you all about who I am and how we can make each other’s lives better if I am chosen to become a member of your pack.
First off, if you’re not a fan of snuggling, hugs, petting, and constant loyalty and love, we may not be the best fit because that is what I bring to the table.
Now I know I am a dog but someone told me the other day that my pretty green-blue eyes are the cat’s meow, whatever that means… I am only about 19 weeks old but boy am I a smart one. I love training with my handler. I am more than willing to listen for a simple chin scratch as a reward. I was opne of 9 pups sonI developed a bit of a resource guarding issue but in just the first 2 weeks of my training, I have shown huge strides in learning how to share like a good boy.
For all of you who remember Scooby, I moved in with his handler, so I have some huge shoes to fill. Luckily my paws still have lots of time to grow.
I am looking forward to meeting you and showing off everything I will learn through this program.
Until my next update! Yours truly, Watson
4/25/24
Howdy Y’all,
This is your handsome boy Zion here. I am a pittie catahoula leopard hound mix. Yup, I kinda got it going on. Everyone seems to notice and compliment my gorgeous cloudy looking coat and my beefy physique. It tends to take a while to walk to and from the day yard here because people constantly want to know who and what I am.
I am about eleven months old and weigh in at a healthy eighty pounds. People who know me say I am oh so sweet and gentle. I’m always aiming to please. I am just glad they noticed because even though I’m handsome, I’m so much more than that.
I like to play fetch and tug-of-war, plus I am getting pretty good at both. I have been practicing my cuddle skills too. Well, it’s about time to go so this is it for now.
ZION
5/09/24
Hello World,
It’s your handsome, fuzzy faced buddy, Zion here and I do believe that this year is indeed my year. I just turned one recently. I am in a really cool dog training program that I love and I just know that I am about to be discovered and find my forever home.
My handlers were not sure of my exact birthday so they celebrated it on Star Wars Day, May 4th (May the fourth be with you. Get it?!) Apparently my Yoda sized head plus me always trying to use the force on them, has them convinced I am a Jedi. They kept saying, “May the fourth be with you” all day! Too funny.
I have been having a blast playing our learning games, and I am glad to say that I am REALLY good at them too.
Well, off to be a good boy now. Catch you later!
ZION
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
4/17/23
Bacon. That’s what they call me. I know, don’t ask. But everybody seems to like me, and they say I make everything better. Who doesn’t like some Bacon?
What’s not as appetizing however, is what I’ve been through in my two and a half years: kicked by a horse, reconstructive surgery, abandonment. I come with a story many aren’t able to stomach as easily as they do my name. But all I’ve ever wanted is someone to acknowledge my trauma and still choose to love me. All I require is a little patience and compassion.
A lab mix, back with some white on my chest and the tips of my paws, I weigh around 65lbs. Everytime I catch a glimpse of my reflection, I can’t help but remind my handler how good I’m looking these days! As much as I love to play fetch, I’m content with being with you for daily activities. My demeanor is so laid back, you’d think I taught Snoop Dogg how to chill – to the next episode.
As of right now, I’m at Stafford Creek Corrections Center undergoing training, receiving tender care. Things are going well. Just earlier today, my trainer gave me a treat just for being me! HE occasionally writes in his journal, and while he was gone the other day (hoping he wouldn’t mind) I took a quick peek and saw he noted I was making significant progress! That he believed in me!
Flattering. But to be honest, I just want my ears rubbed. I’m looking for someone to stand next too and lean on, someone to make me feel loved and safe. If you believe you’re capable of that, please give me a chance.
Hey there, I’m Balsamic! I’m just a puppy, but I’ve got a big personality. I’m brave, funny, gentle, goofy, curious, sweet, friendly, playful, energetic, and cuddly. I was found on the streets with my brother, Olive Oil. We were trying to start a canine culinary club, but apparently, we needed a permit for that! Who knew? Anyway, the shelter folks said we couldn’t just cook up a storm in the streets. So here I am, looking for a new home. I promise to bring joy, laughter, and possibly a few culinary disasters into your life. Adopt me, and let’s cook up some fun together!
4/25
Hey there, it’s your friendly neighborhood chief puppy here – Balsamic. Can U get a “woof woof”? I’ve been here in the slammer now for two whole weeks and I gotta tell you, this place is for birds. Seriously, they’ve got seagulls, crows, starlings, they’re even got a bunch of jailbirds here as well.
So far I’ve been learning to sit, lay down and walk nicely on a leash. Still need some work on that last one there, all of these dang birds around here can be quite the distraction!
I am the calmest at home, I like to lay around and sleep a lot.. I have so many playdates with my brother Olive Oil, my partner in crime. So far I haven’t chewed on one single thing and I am pretty sure I’ve got them right where I want them, the humans that is! Wanna come break me out?
Hello, I’m Olive Oil, a brave, funny, gentle, goofy, curious, sweet, friendly, playful, energetic, cuddly puppy. My brother, Balsamic, and I were exploring the world when we stumbled into a cheese factory. Balsamic was so excited, he tripped over a wheel of cheddar, setting off a Rube Goldberg-like chain of events that ended with us covered in cheese and escorted to this cozy shelter. We’ve had a blast here, but I’m ready for my next adventure. I’m not just a dog, I’m a friend, a confidante, a cheese connoisseur. Adopt me and let’s make our own hilarious stories!
4/25/24
Hi guys and gals this is your boy Olly checking in. Well who said prison was so bad. I am having a great time. Me and my brother Sal (Balsamic) are living it up in here – two hots and a cot, well crate in our case. And if I do a little work, I get all the treats I want. I am meeting a lot of new friends, sine with fur and a lot with no fur at all. I can’t wait to go to my next play date with my brother Sal. Wait a minute, here he is now! Check me out online, I’m the cute little yellow one. Bye for now!
Olly
Meet Roxy, a young bundle of joy who’s goofy antics will keep you laughing all day. Her gentle and sweet nature makes her the perfect companion for those quiet evenings at home. She’s friendly to everyone she meets, spreading joy wherever she goes. Roxy is the queen of playtime, her funny and playful demeanor is infectious, making every day a new adventure. She’s also a cuddly little snuggle bug who loves nothing more than to curl up in your lap and give you sweet kisses. Her beautiful eyes reflect her loving soul, making you feel cherished. Roxy’s affectionate and loving nature makes her the perfect addition to any family. She’s not just a pet, she’s a friend, a companion, a source of unconditional love and laughter. Adopt Roxy and bring home not just a pet, but a bundle of joy and happiness.
4/25/24
Hey there! Rox n’ Sox or Roxy for short, the ultimate mix of labrador love and pittie pizzazz! Yep, you heard it right, I’ve got the energy of a pittie and the cuddles of a lab, all rolled up into one cute package. You can catch me playing fetch and tearing up the yard with my best friend Smiley but I’m also happy to just cuddle up in the bed with you and take a long nap. Companionship is the main thing I’m after.
Here’s the twist: My journey to finding you hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. I was found abandoned by a river, but thanks to the help of Freedom Tails I’ve been able to turn my “ruff” days around and get a second chance at finding my forever home.
My handler and I are quite a dynamic duo. He loves me a bunch and I love him right back, which makes listening and following instructions really easy and fun. Although I wouldn’t be lying if I said that eating yummy treats doesn;t also help. We work on commands, tricks and even some fun games that keep my mind as sharp as my looks.
But enough about me, let’s talk about you. Are you ready for endless games, snuggles and adventures in the great outdoors? Because I sure am! All I want in a family is someone who is as fun, loving and social as I am, and maybe someone who isn’t too stingy with the belly rubs.
So what do you say? REady to make me the happiest pup on the block?
Hi!!! I’m Smiley, and I have A LOT to smile about! I am a parvo survivor thanks to my friends at PAWS. I have so much love to give, I wasn’t ready to stop fighting for my future! My friends say I don’t have a mean bone in my body, but I didn’t know bones could be mean, I just think they’re tasty! I have had some training, too. I can sit and sometimes I can “wait”, but that one is hard because I want to be near my people all the time! Do you want to be my people? I love new friends and am ready to see what all life has in store for my future!! Let’s go!
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4/12/24
Hello there, free world. My name is Smiley! I’m currently in the Big House taking a huge bite of crime. Yeah, I know that was a really corny joke but dry humor is my middle name. I think that might make me a Capricorn, I don’t know. Nevermind, I’m getting off topic again because I’m so busy! Anyways, I’m here in the Freedom Tails training program learning how to live more comfortably and obediently with humans. Humans can be strange creatures sometimes but that’s another off topic subject that we’ll talk about later. My first night in prison was ruff, ruff ruff but my human companions in here quickly helped me settle in and get adjusted to my new environment. They laid a few ground rules and said it’ll help me to get adopted. The first thing I learned was that not everything on the floor is a toy I can play with. Next I learned that windows and doors aren’t something for me to spy on and bark or goals at the world through. There is so much more to tell you about my Freedom Tails prison experience, so stay tuned until next week when I’ll let you know how I made it through bathtime!
Signing off with licks, smiles and nibbles until next time!
Lick, Lick, Ruff!
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4/19/24
Hi guys! It’s your favorite little Blue nose prison mix! You’ll be pleased to know I made it through my first bath time here just fine. The service in this slop hole sucks. There were no bubbles for the bath, no big fluffy robes to relax in after and, you guessed it, no rubber duckys. 🙁 There is a Ducky in here but she’s not yellow or made of rubber. She’s a poof ball with two different colored eyes. That’s a little weird and creepy if you ask me. I hear some people find that cute and adorable. If you find out who they are please let me know so I can block them! Other than that, the last few weeks have been pretty boring. I mean who likes being told what they can’t do all week? It’s not a bad thing to learn the rules and boundaries of living with my companions. I’m hoping it’ll find me a home.
Signing off again with licks, smiles and nibbles!
Until next time,
LICK, LICK, RUFF!
Mickey is a shy boy who needs some love and guidance to learn that it’s not that scary out there. A little bit of patience is needed but given the chance to warm up, Mickey has a great demeanor. He is still trying to figure out this next chapter in life as he has only had one previous owner. Lots of experiences here at PAWS are new to him so he hid his true self for the first few days. He is now starting to come out of his shell and loves showing us what a great dog he can be. He is still a bit skittish when meeting new people and he tries his best not to get spooked when he hears loud noises but he is starting to get comfortable with staff and it’s great to see how playful and goofy he really is. After some time, he has a hard time containing the real Mickey. The loving, playful, goofy goober Mickey.
Oh and he has HOPS (see photo for reference)
FREEDOM TAILS UPDATE!
3-21-23
DATING PROFILE:
Hello,
Hi to all, my name is Mickey and I’m new to the Freedom Tails program. I’ve only been here a few weeks but I’m already making strides. I’m a little shy at first but once I warm up I’m the life of the party. Some of my favorite things to do are go for walks, play fetch, tug-of-war, and keep away. I’m house trained and I don;t chew. I do love to snuggle however. I’m just a happy and fun loving guy on here looking to find my person. If that sounds like you, please get back to me so we can set up a date 🙂 I will be posting every other week until I find my forever person. Who knows, that just might be you. Until next time!
Mickey
4/25/24
Hello Everyone,
Let me introduce myself, I’m Heidi, a female lab mix who loves nothing more than being pet, loved on and hanging out. I am currently enrolled in the Freedom Tails Dog Program at Stafford Creek. I will be in the program for the next 10 weeks and will be training with a trainer. I will learn how to sit, lay, focus, come, wait, off, place, stay, leave it, by me, crate, take it, drop it, back, stand and return. This may seem like a lot for a girl to learn in such a short time, but I will be hard at it! So please keep me in mind and if you can find the time to and have a meeting with me, I will get myself together to come say hello. I can’t forget to give PAWS a shout for making this possible!
As always, PAWS UP
Heidi
5/9/24
A lot has been going on since my last post, so let me take the time and fill you in. I have been learning some commands and everything seems to be coming along well. I will sit, lay, focus,wait, come, and off pretty and have a lot more to learn before I graduate. There are some dogs in the program that I like to play with. I enjoy going on walks with my handler. I am a lovable girl who enjoys the water and getting my feet wet. And when it is time to chill I can lounge with the best of them. I cannot believe it has been 4 weeks since I arrived, and I have to tell you time flies. If you can take the time, I sure would like to meet you. I can be a little stand offish so just be patient please, and I promise I will not disappoint.
Waiting for my forever home,
Heidi
4/24/24
Ducky is a big Diva. She is picky with her food. You have to mix wet food with her dry food to get her to eat it. She loves to bark and sing when she is playing. She loves her naps, and would prefer to have them uninterrupted. Ducky loves to go outside and receiving love. Ducky is a very happy Diva and loves people. It takes her no time at all to warm up to people she likes. She really likes being by your side all the time.
This handsome young man is looking to hire a 24/7 belly scratcher! Dakota has the sweetest heart and the kindest eyes to match. He is still learning some basic manners, but overall, he is such a great companion already. He is a bit shy at times so new experiences take some patience but he is gaining confidence day by day. He has loved everyone that he has met thus far and enjoys going on walks. He CANNOT live in a home with kittens/cats but he loves to make new friends and play with other dogs in our play yard. Have you ever wanted to be able to talk to your dog? And have your dog answer you back?? Dakota loves to express his feelings and tell you what he’s thinking! He is a very talkative dog at times so his future family would have to be okay with the occasional husky howl. Huskies are known for their talkative nature and using vocalizations to communicate and his husky side is not afraid to make an appearance when needed. But don’t let that scare you away! He also loves to play with squeaky toys, play tug, or even just run around like a goof to get some puppy energy out. As long as he is getting some love and belly rubs he is happy, quiet, and quite content. Dakota is our youngest pup with so much joy and so much love to offer to anyone willing to be on the receiving end.
Fill out an application today and scratch that belly!
4/25
Meet Dakota: the energetic pip with a love for life. Dakota is a bundle of joy wrapped in white fur. At just 8 months old this playful pup is not just any ordinary dog. Dakota is a unique character with a zest for life that is as bright as the different colors of his eyes. Dakota’s energy is boundless. Whether it’s a game of fetch or playing with other dogs, Dakota is always on the move. His high energy is infectious and you can’t help but feel uplifted in his presence. Dakota is also incredibly food driven which has made training sessions both run and rewarding. This pup has mastered the basic cues and comes house trained, making him ready to be a well mannered member of a family. Dakota has no problem getting along with other dogs, but this is not the case when it comes to chickens and cats. Dakota loves his belly rubbed. It’s a joy to see him interact with others showcasing friendly and sociable nature. But the trick that gets everyone talking is Dakota’s favorite – playing dead with a dramatic flop and a tongue and cheek hair Dakota can perform this trick like a seasoned master. It’s a crowd pleaser and a testament to his intelligence and eagerness to please. One thing is certain, life with this pup is never dull.
5/21
At 10 months of age and just 10 weeks into Freedom Tails, this young pup is showing exceptional progress in his training. He has mastered a variety of cues including sit, down, look, wait, and place. His favorite activities include frolicking with his other canine companions, exploring the outdoors on walks, and indulging his curiosity through scent. He is in search of a forever home that offers a spacious yard for him to roam freely, a home where he won’t be confined and will be provided with an abundance of nourishing meals. Don’t wait any longer to bring this pu[p home. Tune in next week to hear from the little white furry pup himself.
Shop Our Wish List
You can help support the Freedom Tails program by purchasing and donating supplies. When selecting items, keep in mind that most of our dogs are large in size. Donations can be dropped off Tuesday-Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm at the shelter.
- Large Knuckle Bones
- Agility Course Obstacles
- Training Treats
- Dog Blankets
- Rope Toys
- Chuck It
- Buffalo Horn Chews
- Diamond Naturals Adult Dog Food
You can also download a PDF Wish List with specific items accessed through QR Code Links:
Thank you Freedom Tails Sponsors!
![](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Wesley-3.jpg)
Freedom Tails Graduates
![Zeus (July 2023)](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/zeus-e1685294626805-300x300.jpg)
![Wesley (July 2023)](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/wesley-300x300.jpg)
![T-Bone (July 2023)](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/tbone-300x300.jpg)
![Simba (July 2023)](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/simba-300x300.jpg)
![Inspector Gadget (July 2023)](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/inspec-300x300.jpg)
![Humperdinck (July 2023)](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/humperdinck-300x300.jpg)
![Allan (July 2023)](https://pawsgh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/allan-300x300.jpg)