Jacko
From the word "Jack," which means donkey. An animal associated with wisdom, peace, and humility.

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Some of the dogs in our program are adopted before we get to know them. Some stay longer but require several weeks to show their character. Some dogs receive additional evaluations and training by professionals if needed.
We work hard to provide as much information as possible, but the process is not perfect. Our goal is to give the dogs the best chance to stay in their home for the rest of their lives so we are genuine regarding what we know about them. For MPR, quality of our placements takes precedence over a quick turnaround.
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Missouri Pit Bull Rescue makes no express or implied warranty, representation or promise to the age, health, breed, habits, disposition, behaviors, obedience, or safety of the dogs in our program. Our assessments are subjective and based on information we receive when selecting the dogs for our program, as well as observations and reports from our volunteers and caretakers. Adopters understand that no one can predict how a dog will act or react under all circumstances and situations.
Background Info:
We have been devastated by terrible news. Jacko's beloved owner, who adopted him from MPR three years ago, unexpectedly passed away recently. The family has been unable to keep him due to other pets in the house not accepting the big guy. With great sadness, they were forced to relinquish Jacko back to us and hope with all their heart he will soon find a home as loving as the one he had.
*LatchKey Pets is sponsoring Jacko’s adoption fee, so there is no cost for his adopters. They have also offered five FREE visits for adopters who live in the KC Metro. LatchKey provides daytime dog walking and vacation pet sitting services.
Adoption Fee: $0
Sponsored by Latchkey Pets
Breed: Pit Bull/Amstaff
Sex: Male
Age: 7-10 yrs
Weight: 75+ lbs
Health Condition:
When initially rescued in 2018, Jacko was in terrible shape, emaciated and badly injured. At first we thought he would lose his leg as a result, but he pulled through. Jacko is now back on his feet, healthy, and looking quite dandy, if we can say so. He doesn't even have a limp. In fact, he's become a big beefy guy who looks nothing like the skinny rabbit who first came to us.
Note that Jacko suffered from seasonal allergies a few years ago and we are currently assessing his condition in that regard. He looks so good, healthy and well cared for right now that we believe his previous issues might have been cause by the stress of being homeless.
Physical Description
Very stocky blue and white boy with the silliest ears and a HUGE head. Jacko is medium size but big boned. His transformation has been spectacular. He's actually quite the tank now and his presence just demands the attention of the room.
Living Situation
As expected, Jacko, who now simply goes by "J", is heart broken. His whole world came crashing down on him with the passing of his loving owner. He is now back at MPR shelter, confused and anxiously waiting for his dad to come back. We are crushed 😢😢😢 God only knows this dog didn't deserve that. After all he had been through in his life, he thought he finally had it made and it was all taken away from him. We can only hope and pray he wont have to wait too long and will soon find love again. Until then, he's doing his best to cope and we are doing all we can to mend his broken heart.
Other than occasional long howls of sorrow as he longs for his owner, Jacko does well in his kennel. He keeps it clean and uses his doggy-door to potty outside. He's no trouble at all, except for the emotional toll his situation is taking on the volunteers who helplessly witness his sadness.
Personality
This dog sure has been through a lot in his life. We know that he used to live with a family that neglected him until he vanished from their care. He then spent several months barely surviving on his own in the streets, exposed to the elements, starvation, loneliness, and the all around rough life of a stray until he finally was rescued. He then spent about a year with MPR recuperating from his injuries and the hard life until he was finally well enough to be adopted. It's beyond heartbreaking to think that he is now back with us through no fault of his own.
Jacko is upset right now and spends his time waiting for his dad. Normally, he is a big happy goofball - confident, outgoing, proud, and strong. Sometimes he even acts like a 10-week-old puppy in the body of an adult.
We remember him as a dog who loved butt-runs and zoomies and we are expecting him to do them again very soon.
While not a lazy dog, Jacko is easy-going and has an average energy level. He gets particularly playful in the evening but is quite chill the rest of the day. For the most part, Jacko is a happy-go-lucky boy but he does require a home with structure and leadership. He's a very powerful dog.
Behavior with people:
Jacko is very friendly and comfortable with everyone he meets. He was obviously born a good dog, but was dealt a terrible hand. He doesn't hold a grudge whatsoever. He greets everyone like a long-lost friend. Like a good Pit Bull dog should, J has a very solid temperament with people. He does tend to test boundaries though, if he perceives a weakness, especially when playing. His new owner should make sure roughhousing is kept under control and provide J with the structure he needs and craves. Indeed, Jacko thrives on leadership and likes to know someone is in charge.
Behavior with children
Jacko is at ease with everyone, so we're pretty sure he'd love children just as much. That said, he is very strong and not always the best at controlling his enthusiasm for roughhousing. He gets a little carried away sometimes and might use his mouth inappropriately to establish a connection or body slam for fun. We are working on it but he's a strong dog and doesn't always realize his strength. He doesn't mean any harm, but can be a little rowdy when playing. A home with adults is preferred. Older kids, such as teenagers, could be an option if the parents are on board with supervision and can provide adequate structure.
Behavior with other dogs
Jacko met some dogs while being in his recent home. With proper introductions and supervision, he did well with compatible females and smaller dogs that he did not perceive as a threat or a challenge. Jacko isn't good with other large or dominant male dogs.
Behavior with other animals
Unknown.
Training
J knows basic commands. He's responsive but occasional zoomies may take the best out of him. He has no malice but he is strong and plays a little hard. Our volunteers are working on impulse control with him. He is doing much better already. Jacko keeps his kennel clean and doesn't destroy his bedding.
Best Attribute
We for sure love the big head and silly ears, but it is Jacko's positive energy and lack of resentment towards those who did him wrong that we find so inspiring. This dog is a testimonial of what this breed is all about. - Friendliness, forgiveness, and happiness... And as we are witnessing now; loyalty.
Even if you can’t adopt this sweetheart, you can still help by donating for their care.
Can't adopt but want to help? Every dollar makes a difference!
