Early Students were treated to a visit by a local service dog and local dog trainers who spoke of the positive relationships between animals and humans.

These Early students listened to presentations given by Donnetta Alexander and her therapy dog “Killa”, Leona Cleveland, and Holli Fenton and students in the local PAWS program.

The PAWS program at the Ron Jackson State Juvenile Correctional Complex pairs a select group of TJJD youth with K-9 partners from the local Corinne T. Smith Animal Center 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.  The youth benefit by learning to demonstrate empathy, compassion and responsibility.  They are responsible for their dogs at all times and do all the feeding, walking, grooming and training.  The youth and their companion form great bonds during this time, helping both of them.

The talks provided information about the treatment of animals and the positive bounds possible between humans and domestic animals.   The treatment of animals is one of the global issues that all Texas Problem Solvers are exploring this fall. Students donated over 125 pounds of pet food to the Corinne T. Smith Animal Center in appreciation.

Pictured above are Early High School Future Problem Solvers and Donnetta Alexander (center) with her therapy dog “Killa.”