Adopted by his handler, Jessica Paisley, from the Noah's Ark Rescue Project and Sanctuary (NARPS) in 2022, Breaker isn’t your average dog. This therapy dog in training is already a vital part of the school community, providing emotional support to students, faculty, and staff.
From a young age, Breaker has been preparing for this role. Beginning his journey at just 12 weeks old, Breaker has completed six rigorous certifications and is officially recognized as an AKC Canine Partner with an AKC Canine Good Citizenship Title. His training has been guided by Jessica, who, in addition to her handler training, is also certified through the PetSmart Organization. Together, they form a skilled therapy team poised to expand their credentials even further.
From a young age, Breaker has been preparing for this role. Beginning his journey at just 12 weeks old, Breaker has completed six rigorous certifications and is officially recognized as an AKC Canine Partner with an AKC Canine Good Citizenship Title. His training has been guided by Jessica, who, in addition to her handler training, is also certified through the PetSmart Organization. Together, they form a skilled therapy team poised to expand their credentials even further.
Jessica and Breaker are now working to achieve national registration through Pet Partners, a prominent non-profit organization focused on promoting health and wellness benefits through animal-assisted interventions. This achievement would allow them to bring even more support to the community. The process, however, is extensive: Breaker must pass a full health examination, and Jessica is required to complete a nine-module handler course with a final team evaluation to assess their skills as a team.
For the students of Tamaqua Area High School, Breaker’s presence has already made an impact. Students and teachers alike have reported feeling happier and less stressed when Breaker is around. His youthful energy, combined with his calm and friendly demeanor, helps foster a school environment where social and emotional development thrive. Many students say that they look forward to Breaker’s visits, feeling comforted by his playful spirit and encouraged to engage more fully in school activities. The district views Breaker’s involvement as a key addition to its efforts to support positive school culture and climate.
And Breaker’s story has a unique connection to the area’s rich coal region history. Named in honor of Jessica’s father’s coal breaker, the Mazaika Coal Company, Breaker pays homage to the “breaker boys” who once worked in the anthracite mines of Pennsylvania. This historical link is especially meaningful to Jessica, whose family roots run deep in Tamaqua’s coal heritage. Jessica and Breaker live on a property adjacent to the coal company, and locals fondly call him “breaker boy,” a nickname the coal company visitors gave him as he often accompanies them.
Submitted Photos / Tamaqua Area School District
