Nico, Max become next participants in TAILS program
Published on July 30, 2025
The TAILS program is growing at Allegheny County Jail.
It took just more than a month for the program’s first foster dog, a female named Ellie (renamed from Ethel), to find her forever home. Now the TAILS training team is working hard to get two more dogs ready for adoption.
“Animal Friends is thrilled that we currently have two shelter dogs residing at ACJ,” said Katie Vecchi, Chief Shelter Officer at Animal Friends. “With the success of Ethel/Ellie, we knew that any dog who was transferred into the program would be shown endless compassion and dedication.”
The first of the two new canines, Niko, bounded into the jail on July 15 with somewhat less fanfare than his predecessor. But he did bring with him with much more energy as he greeted correctional officers working in the visitor’s lobby with leaps and licks.
Niko is a two-year old stray husky who arrived at Animal Friends underweight.
Since moving into the ACJ, staff have reported that they were able to get Niko onto a scale and he has gained about three pounds.
Max arrived shortly after Niko moved in.
A small mixed-breed male with dark black curly hair, Max let out a few high-pitched yelps when entering the ACJ.
Once on the pod, all the incarcerated females fell in love with Max as he couldn’t wait to get into the gym and check everything out.
“The two dogs there now are little more high energy (than Ellie) and need help with their basic manners,” said Vecchi. “We are confident that the handlers at ACJ will help to prepare them for their new homes.”
Media inquiries may be directed to Jesse Geleynse, Public Information Officer for the Allegheny County Jail
jesse.geleynse@alleghenycounty.us or by phone at 412-350-1267 or 412-760-4760 (cell).