Thursday, December 10, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
PRISONERS AND PUPPIES GET SECOND CHANCE
Compassion for humans and dogs leads to the creation of programs to help both man and his best friend rehabilitate for better futures.
Prison bars are a common denominator for both inmates and shelter dogs. Both have led rough lives, and in most cases both have made quite a few mistakes before ending up in a cell. But the mistakes they’ve made may not determine the true character of the individual or the dog that resides within the concrete walls of these “prisons.”
Within the country’s heartland in Lansing, Kansas, a small team of animal lovers launched the Safe Harbor Prison Dogs Program in August of 2004. The program helps both shelter dogs and prisoners get a second chance at life, and gives them the opportunity to prove they’re worth the effort. Today, five years later, Safe Harbor is now in the process of rehabilitating 75 dogs with over 100 handlers from the Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF).
“We’ve been involved in this pretty much seven days a week for the last five years, and we’re still having a really good time,” said Brett Petersen, Safe Harbor Campus Registered Agent and program volunteer. Their dedication brings dogs from overcrowded shelters in the Lansing area into a program that prepares them with basic obedience for sucessful adoption into happy homes.
When brought into the program, the pups are assigned to a handler (inmate) and go in to live with their trainer in dormitories within the minimum and medium security facilities at LCF. There are no specific prerequisites for the match-up, described Petersen, who then chuckled and light-heartedly went on to say, “I always get a kick out of taking the biggest dogs for the smallest dog handlers in stature.”
Size in stature really doesn’t seem to matter in the Safe Harbor program, neither does it matter one’s level of “toughness;” it’s all about the size of the heart. Via the program, the men learn to fawn over their new best friends, especially the new puppy arrivals.
“We’ve had puppies born in the prison. I have a pregnant dog at the dormitory right now and I have 12 extremely worried inmates making sure she’s taken care of,” says Petersen.
Almost an oxymoron, these “scary” prisoners held for criminal offenses are finding themselves caring for another living being, possibly for the first time. The animal’s health and development is completely in the hands of the inmate, allowing the men to slowly regain their ability to love unconditionally.
One of Safe Harbor’s veteran handlers, 37-year-old Jeff, is serving over 58 years in prison, but in the last five years he’s made a huge contribution to society, all from his jail cell. Through the program, Jeff has trained 75 shelter dogs who’ve all gone on to happy forever homes.
Jeff, who did not want to disclose his last name or criminal charges, began his prison dogs journey with two small puppies named Gypsy and Cinnamon. “The training process for them was a little hard, especially the potty training. I was in a maximum security unit and had to wait to get out of my cell to take them out at times. The staff was extremely patient though,” said Jeff about his first handler experience.
Jeff is now a pro at this, though inevitably with every new dog there are new challenges. “Right now I have an 11-month-old deaf, white Boxer. She is afraid of hand gestures (probably from being smacked around by someone who thought she could hear and was just ignoring them), so teaching her basic commands is pretty challenging.” But Jeff perseveres and loves the animals he’s worked with, which have brought him a very long way from the man he was just five short years ago.
“There’s a lot of building them up, because most of the inmates are lacking in self-esteem. Many of them are closed to love and are learning about doggie kisses for the first time. And many of them have not touched a dog in ten years,” explained Donna Shawver, Training Director for PAL Humane Society’s Prison PALs program, which includes the Building Attachments Rehabilitating Kids (B.A.R.K.) program held at the High Desert Juvenile Detention Center in Victorville, California.
Fledgling programs, both B.A.R.K. and the Federal Correctional Institute’s Prison PALs were initiated by Sister Pauline Quinn of Pathways To Hope in partnership with Katherine Schlintz, President and CEO of the PAL Humane Society. Dedicated to the power of prison dog programs, Sr. Quinn enlisted Shawver to help start this particular program in Victorville. Shawver happily and selflessly volunteered her time and expertise as a certified service dog trainer to the programs.
B.A.R.K. tries to reach youth in two ways – by teaching humane education about various animals, including dogs, and by allowing those minors who’ve earned the privilege the opportunity to participate in dog training classes.
Shawver likened the minors in this institution to the shelter dogs that come through its program. “They’re shy or they’re overaggressive, or they’re trying to be tough or they’re scared of the world.” But, despite their rough beginnings, the youth learn about responsibility and unconditional love from the dogs that Shawver and Schlintz bring into the program, and in turn the dogs learn about patience, obedience, positive reinforcement, and that humans are truly a dog’s best friend.
The minors have shown great promise and many have refused to lose their privileges when baited to fight with other youth in the facility, and Shawver says that’s a good sign.
“These kids have all committed felonies. We don’t know what the kids’ offenses are, but I can tell you right now that a nine-year-old felon has some serious stuff going on and if I can bring a dog in and affect that child in a positive way then I’ve done something good,” said Shawver.
She’s also done something good for the dogs that have graduated out of this program. Because of their basic obedience, these dogs have a stronger likelihood of staying in their forever homes. “The chances of that dog coming back to the shelter are very slim,” Shawver said. Usually, lack of obedience training is one of the main reasons a dog returns to a shelter, and this program helps shelter dogs find a home and keep it.
The prison dogs programs are prompting positive changes across the board. In the Safe Harbor program, the health of prisoners was tremendously affected by the energy of the dogs. “We have dog handlers that have medical concerns,” said Petersen. “They may be diabetic, or have chronic care issues, or may be medically unable to work. But they can take care of a dog. Then they’re outside and they’re getting more exercise. We’ve seen some decrease in medications for people who are dog handlers.” Petersen explained that some may not believe the results – even he seemed astonished by them, but that the proof was apparent.
In addition, the socialization of the dogs among people of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds has actually led to increased positive socialization among inmates and even between prisoners and staff. Safe Harbor stocks treats in the prison store, and prisoners who are not in the program will purchase them to interact with the dogs, which then leads to positive interaction with the handlers, their fellow inmates.
“If you are walking a vivacious, 4-month-old boxer puppy on a leash, even the grumpiest of folks will stop and want to pet the puppy,” said Petersen with a kind laugh.
Safe harbor provides staff with free treats and it’s not uncommon to find prison personnel digging around in their pockets to treat a pooch walking by in the prison yard. “In prison, if you’re a staff person it wouldn’t be appropriate for you to have a conversation with an inmate about anything personal, but you can certainly have a conversation about a dog,” explains Petersen. The prison staff have truly embraced the program, and in fact are among the many that have adopted the dogs that have come through the prison dogs program.
The majority of the Safe Harbor dogs were on shelter death row at the top of the euthanasia list. Here, with the inmates, there’s no need to fear being put down. Truth be told, both inmates and staff are always on the dog’s side. If circumstances arise where a dog bites a handler (which is extremely rare), everyone’s quick to blame the humans.
“It’s never the dog’s fault,” says Petersen. “That’s what they tell me because they don’t want the dog to get euthanized. But we’re not about killing dogs, we’re about saving dogs.”
Sympathetic to the dogs’ plight, prisoners seem to believe whole-heartedly in giving the dogs a new “leash” on life. Inmate Jeff agreed and it’s obvious that the dogs have touched his life.
“My dogs are my best friends while they are here. They love you unconditionally and don’t ask for anything in return but love.” He went on to say that nothing compares to the sense of accomplishment felt when you’ve trained an obedient, loving pup.
To adopt the dogs in the Safe Harbor Prison Dogs program, visit them online here or call them at (913) 634-5955. Safe Harbor holds private showings of the dogs at the Lansing Correctional Facility prison yard Wednesdays at 6 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Please call before attending.
To adopt the dogs in the B.A.R.K. and Prison PALs program visit them online here or call them at (760) 240-6848.
Images courtesy of Safe Harbor Prison Dogs program and Katherine Schlintz of PAL Humane Society.
What do you think about putting puppies behind bars? Tell us about it here.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
The Courage to try...
Hi Sister Pauline,
I wanted to let you know about one of my pups who was slated to be a service dog/breeder. She had to be released due to prey drive, but this is what she's doing instead! She surfed with a 15 year old quadraplegic surfer, and completed the first ever tandem surfing ride between an adaptive surfer and a dog last Thursday!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Friday, August 21, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
PRISON DOG PROGRAM SAGO PALM WORK CAMP ~ PAHOKEE, FLORIDA
Major Lori Kibler on left ~Warden Robert Shannon on right ~ trainers and pupsThis is a NEW HORIZONS SERVICE DOG program in partnership with the Florida Department of Corrections where the inmates are doing a public service by helping to train future service dogs to help the disabled.
There are many disabled who waiting for a service dog to assist them and with the inmates help, more dogs are able to be ready to partner with someone who needs a dog to assist them.
Patty Armfield, an experienced dog trainer, comes twice a week to the prison to help the inmates learn dog training skills. She is teaching all aspects of dog care, which could lead further to employment once released. Her work is very much appreciated.
We need many items for this program: dog grooming supplies, crates, towels, dog toys, gift cards to buy dog food, plastic dog gates, leashes. A list of items can be obtained by contacting Janet Severt at New Horizons ~ 386 456-0408
JANET, PATTY AND THE TRAINERS
PATTY TEACHING THE MEN HOW TO CARE FOR THEIR DOG.THEY ARE INTERESTED AND LEARN QUICKLY
LEARNING HOW TO GROOM THEIR PUPS
Monday, July 20, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Heman G. Stark Youth Correctional Facility ~ PRISON DOG PROGRAM
Friday, July 10, 2009
Prison program gives second chance for man and beast
'Another Chance for Love' pairs dogs with men incarcerated in Chino.
By SAMANTHA GOWEN
The Orange County Register
Comments 0| Recommend 0
CHINO – In the visitors' center at the Heman G. Stark Youth Correctional Facility a young man sits with a small dog in his lap. He says hello in a high-pitched, sing-song voice most pet owners know well.
Squirt, a Yorkshire terrier mutt, wriggles happily and licks his face.
"If you stick around, you'll hear a lot of funny noises coming out of us," says Brandon Gilmore, laughing as he ducks another wet kiss from Squirt.
This is the beginning of a relationship that will rehabilitate both man and canine. For 10 weeks, Gilmore and Squirt will live together and learn from each other inside the walls of a facility that imprisons young men who ran afoul of the law.
Eight ill-fated dogs from the O.C. Animal Shelter in Orange arrived Friday at the correctional facility. The men, ages 19 to 23, waited anxiously for their new charges. It's been three weeks since a previous class of canines graduated from the popular program called Another Chance for Love.
Janette Thomas is the executive director of the program that pairs troubled and homeless dogs with men incarcerated with problems of their own.
"For many of these guys, it's the first time they have ever felt true love," Thomas says. The men echo her sentiments.
"I've never had this close a bond with anyone," says Josue Tellez as he strokes his assigned dog's head. Tellez of Santa Ana has been paired with Heidi, a skittish but friendly German shepherd who sticks close to his side.
It's hard to tell on arrival day who is having a better time, the men or the dogs. Smiles and happy chatter fill the yard outside the visitors' center. While beast and man get to know each other, Thomas gives these trainers – most of them veterans of program – some tips for the weekend.
"No training yet!" Thomas emphasizes. "Just get to know the dogs, and let them get to know you."
The dogs will live alongside the men 24-7 as they master behavior and training. After graduation, the dogs will be adopted to new families – minus the issues that likely sent them to the shelter in the first place.
Kevin Felan has trained six dogs with Another Chance for Love. The program veteran was given perhaps the toughest challenge: Spanky, a Cairn terrier, who struggles with control and basic dog manners.
"Love is a big part of a dog's life," Felan says. "Without the love, the dog isn't going to give love, and he's probably going to end up at a shelter."
The word love is used a lot here. Each of the eight men expresses a deep appreciation for a program that has taught them about affection, patience and parenting skills, all from four-legged fur balls.
Thomas avoids so-called bully breeds like pit bulls and Rottweilers to offset any past experiences of the men. She intentionally pairs these reformed tough guys with 3-pound terriers and petite poodles, which often require a more gentle approach.
Los Angeles native Eric Alvarado has renamed his dog "Dodger." The flat-coated black retriever doesn't seem to mind. While the dog barks and strains his leash, Alvarado calmly explains how the dogs have helped reform him.
"I had no patience before this program," says Alvarado, who is training his third dog. "As much as we teach them, they teach us twice as much."
Andre Griffin sums up the experience for most of the men: "We give them another chance," he says. "I like the rehabilitation work we do here to get these dogs to new families.
"And you get a lot of love from the dogs," he says with a shy smile.
Stay tuned. The Register plans to follow the eight dogs and their trainers as they progress through the training program. You can read more online at ocregister.com/pettales.
Friday, June 5, 2009
ANOTHER CHANCE FOR LOVE ~ CALIFORNIA YOUTH AUTHORITY PRISON DOG PROGRAM
Whittier Daily News, The (CA)
May 26, 2009
Dogs, youths get another chance at love Author: Bethania Palma Markus, Staff Writer
NORWALK - Dominique Perry bent down and tenderly scratched the scared, skinny dog that had just been entrusted to him.
The 18-year-old is like any other dog-loving teenager, except he's serving time for a crime at the California Youth Authority.
But because he and five other boys have demonstrated good behavior, they were selected to participate in "Another Chance for Love," a program run by dog trainer Janette Thomas in cooperation with the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority in Downey.
Perry's main job was to teach Bella, a 1-year-old border collie mix, basic obedience and behavior to help her find a good adoptive home.
"Being out on the streets a lot of people like pit bulls," he said. "This introduces us to a lot of different kinds of dogs."
Perry said when his time at the detention center is over, he is considering adopting a shepherd breed.
Another Chance at Love takes dogs from SEAACA's shelter and places them with selected youngsters at the California Youth Authority, who then train them in basic domestic obedience. Thomas and SEAACA staff on Friday took six dogs from the shelter to the correctional facility for training.
"It's the small victories that we cherish," said SEAACA Capt. Aaron Reyes. "It's a win-win situation."
The dogs get to spend months away from the kennel, learn skills that will make them more adoptable and get socialized, he said, while the youngsters learn important lessons in being responsible.
"They basically learn life skills," Thomas said. "They learn patience, empathy, team building. They've got to do everything."
The dogs are trained by two boys, a leader and a supporter, she said. They learn through positive reinforcement methods, like toys, treats and games.
Thomas spends a couple of weeks prior to the dogs' arrival teaching the teens training, grooming and care.
The program is supported by SEAACA, which provides necessities like food, veterinary care and medicine, she said. The Youth Authority provides oversight and support as well, she added.
"It's a three-part system," she said. Thomas remains on call 24/7 in case dog-related emergencies arise.
The most difficult part of the program, Reyes said, is when the dogs have to be taken from their trainers to be placed into adoptive homes.
But there are other needy dogs waiting in the wings.
"The kids have prior exposure mostly to fighting dogs, dominated by pit bulls," Thomas said. "They haven't really had the opportunity to experience the unconditional love of a family pet."
NORWALK - Dominique Perry bent down and tenderly scratched the scared, skinny dog that had just been entrusted to him.
The 18-year-old is like any other dog-loving teenager, except he's serving time for a crime at the California Youth Authority.
But because he and five other boys have demonstrated good behavior, they were selected to participate in "Another Chance for Love," a program run by dog trainer Janette Thomas in cooperation with the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority in Downey.
Perry's main job was to teach Bella, a 1-year-old border collie mix, basic obedience and behavior to help her find a good adoptive home.
"Being out on the streets a lot of people like pit bulls," he said. "This introduces us to a lot of different kinds of dogs."
Perry said when his time at the detention center is over, he is considering adopting a shepherd breed.
Another Chance at Love takes dogs from SEAACA's shelter and places them with selected youngsters at the California Youth Authority, who then train them in basic domestic obedience. Thomas and SEAACA staff on Friday took six dogs from the shelter to the correctional facility for training.
"It's the small victories that we cherish," said SEAACA Capt. Aaron Reyes. "It's a win-win situation."
The dogs get to spend months away from the kennel, learn skills that will make them more adoptable and get socialized, he said, while the youngsters learn important lessons in being responsible.
"They basically learn life skills," Thomas said. "They learn patience, empathy, team building. They've got to do everything."
The dogs are trained by two boys, a leader and a supporter, she said. They learn through positive reinforcement methods, like toys, treats and games.
Thomas spends a couple of weeks prior to the dogs' arrival teaching the teens training, grooming and care.
The program is supported by SEAACA, which provides necessities like food, veterinary care and medicine, she said. The Youth Authority provides oversight and support as well, she added.
"It's a three-part system," she said. Thomas remains on call 24/7 in case dog-related emergencies arise.
The most difficult part of the program, Reyes said, is when the dogs have to be taken from their trainers to be placed into adoptive homes.
But there are other needy dogs waiting in the wings.
"The kids have prior exposure mostly to fighting dogs, dominated by pit bulls," Thomas said. "They haven't really had the opportunity to experience the unconditional love of a family pet."
Friday, May 29, 2009
PRISON DOG RENI ~ HELPS MANY PEOPLE
RENI
Reni playing with the prison dogs at Cumberland
Monday, May 25, 2009
Rebecca L. Rhoades
In our nation’s correctional system, more than one million men, women and young adults are living their lives in confinement. They’re there for a variety of reasons—anger, drug abuse, robbery, murder—but in time, most will get a chance at a better future. Meanwhile, 15 million prisoners of a different sort are facing a possible death sentence. They’re animals with whom we share our world—dogs, cats, horses and even wildlife. They’ve committed no crime, but they will be punished unless someone steps forward and gives them a second chance at life.
Both groups face isolation and rejection, but when their paths merge, they often give each other hope, as one prisoner becomes the salvation of the other.
Death Row Dogs
At the Ashland County (OH) Humane Society, Taffy is just days away from euthanasia. The young blue heeler/beagle mix needs obedience training and socialization, and his luck is running out.
A few days later, Taffy is relaxing in the cell of Eric Roberson, an inmate at the Mansfield Correctional Institution, a maximum security prison in Ohio. Taffy and Roberson are one of almost 30 inmate/shelter dog pairs participating in the Tender Loving Dog Care program at Mansfield. The program provides the inmates with the opportunity to train and socialize otherwise doomed dogs, who are then adopted into good homes.
Roberson, who is serving 24 years for a 1992 murder conviction, has been in the program since Jesse Williams, deputy warden, special services, introduced it in 1998. He’s given a new life to 22 dogs; an additional 200 have also been saved.
“These dogs didn’t fit into society or they failed to meet the standards of somebody out there,” says Roberson. “They’re just like us. By working with the dogs, we’re giving them a chance to get back to a life that some of us might never see.”
Once matched with a dog, the inmates are fully responsible for the dog’s care: feeding, grooming, housebreaking, obedience training. After a few months of round-the-clock care, the dogs are ready for adoption. And according to Williams, there’s a waiting list “a mile long” of families waiting to adopt one of these special dogs.
Soon Taffy, like the other Mansfield dogs once sentenced to die, will find a new home. That time often comes too soon for the men who train and bond with them. “It’s like saying goodbye to your best friend,” says Roberson.
Where the Wild Things Are
In Marysville, OH, Sharon Young is serving time for aggravated murder. Once an angry woman, she had little compassion for other beings. “Ten years ago, you wouldn’t have wanted me near your pets,” she says. Now she is responsible for almost 400 animals each year.
On any given day at the Ohio Reformatory for Women, the basement of the housing unit is filled with injured or orphaned wild birds, squirrels, opossums, ducks and rabbits. Citizens rescue the animals and give them to the Ohio Wildlife Center (OWC), a private rescue organization that, in turn, sends them to the ORW to recover.
In 1994, Sue Anderson, a longtime volunteer at the OWC, was overwhelmed by the work of caring for the 4,000 sick, injured and orphaned animals who came through the center each year. When a friend who worked in the Ohio prison system suggested a partnership, Anderson jumped at the opportunity.
Inmates in the program are trained by Anderson to care for the various animals, and with the help of detailed guidebooks, they provide 24-hour nursing care. The women have to learn about the proper diet for each animal, which can include hand-feeding mealworms to birds, and such difficult techniques as tube-feeding baby opossums. As program aide, Young oversees all of the program’s activities, from documenting the intake and release of each animal to monitoring feeding schedules and keeping health records.
Once recovered, the animals are returned to the wild. “Our goal is to get as many animals healthy and back into their natural habitats as we can,” says Young. “It’s difficult to see them go, but it makes you feel proud to know that you’ve done something good and really miraculous.”
Recently, OWC expanded its program into the Marion (OH) Correctional Institution, a men’s facility.
On the Right Track
It’s tempting to wonder if the lives of the men and women who participate in animal welfare programs behind bars would have been different if they’d had such opportunities during their youth. Monique Koehler, founder of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF), believes the answer is yes.
In 1994, Koehler helped launch a program at the Charles H. Hickey School in Baltimore, MD, a residential institution for young men ages 12 to 20 that pairs troubled students with retired thoroughbreds. The Hickey program is modeled on one that TRF started at Wallkill (NY) State Correctional Institution in 1983. “We need to seize the opportunity to let the animals help these kids find something good in the world,” says Koehler.
“When I came here, I had an anger problem,” says Samuel H., age 16. “Working with the horses has really helped me out. It’s given me a good perspective on animals, on how to treat them properly.” For Allen R., also 16, the program offers something to look forward to each day. “You really want to get out there and work. I’d never been around an adult horse before. I like working with them.”
As part of the Hickey School’s only “living” classroom, the students are responsible for all aspects of care for the farm’s 29 horses. They feed them, groom them, exercise them, tend to their injuries and study their physiology. “A lot of the horses come from the racetracks,” says farm manager Andre Wheeler. “Some are in great shape, some are in poor condition, some are maybe a week or two away from dying when we get them. It’s the care of these young men that helps turn these horses around.”
Similar programs are in place at the Blackburn Correctional Complex in Lexington, KY, and at Marion County Correctional Institution in Ocala, FL.
Big-House Hounds
Each year, more than 24,000 greyhounds are retired from the racing circuit, according to the National Greyhound Association. Some are adopted as pets through rescue groups, but many more are euthanized. In Kansas, a lucky few go to prison.
About one year ago, Rich Booher, a corrections counselor at Ellsworth Correctional Facility, saw a local news report about racing greyhounds who were going to be euthanized. Since the inmates at Ellsworth were already training assistance dogs for Canine Assistance Rehabilitation Education and Services, Booher suggested fostering greyhounds and training them for adoption.
“There was a need,” says Booher. “We’re always looking for ways for our inmates to give back to society, and thousands of greyhounds are put down every year.” So Booher contacted Deborah Sanford of TLC Greyhound Adoption, and soon greyhounds were frolicking with inmates in the recreation yard and sleeping in cells. Each hound has a primary and a secondary handler, who teach the dog house manners and basic obedience. Most hounds leave the program after six to eight weeks knowing how to walk nicely on a lead and respond to commands such as sit, stay, down and come.
Almost immediately, other facilities within the Kansas Department of Corrections were inquiring about fostering greyhounds, and the program quickly spread to the Hutchinson and El Dorado facilities. Currently, some 30 greyhounds are being cared for in the Kansas system.
“We’re able to accomplish a great deal with the dogs because we’re with them 24 hours a day,” says Booher. “If you have that much time to devote to an animal, there’s a lot of reinforcement, and they learn very rapidly.”
Recently the Hutchinson facility expanded its animal welfare programs to include gentling and socializing wild horses in conjunction with the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) National Wild Horse and Burro Program. “BLM has quite an effort going on to adopt out these horses,” says Sam Cline, deputy warden. “But they’re usually difficult to adopt because they haven’t had much training. We’re working with the horses to make it easier and safer to place them with somebody in the public.”
Since summer 2000, participating inmates have worked diligently at building barns and stables, fencing in paddocks, laying rock to create roadways and hauling supplies and equipment. In March 2001, Hutchinson received its first shipment of 100 horses.
“We’re saving horses and changing men,” says Cline. “That capsulizes what we’re trying to do.”
New Leash on Life
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) in Phoenix, AZ, offers a variety of often-controversial programs designed to rehabilitate its inmates—tent communities, chain gangs, pink underwear—but in May 2000, Sheriff Joe Arpaio decided to open one of his jails to help rehabilitate some of the silent victims.
With space at local shelters at a premium, the sheriff’s office needed to find additional housing for the animals seized by its Animal Cruelty Investigation Unit. The 30-year-old First Avenue Jail, no longer used to house inmates due to plumbing problems, provided a solution.
Known as the MCSO Animal Safe Hospice (MASH), the facility houses dogs, cats, ducks and other animals until their cases have been adjudicated and they’re able to be adopted out to the public. Each dog has a private cell, while the cats live communally in one of the day rooms. So far, about 90 animals have been through the MASH program.
Caring for the animals are women who are serving their time in the tent cities. For 12-hour shifts, the inmates work with the animals, tending wounds and illnesses, cleaning cages, teaching basic obedience commands and helping them overcome fear and aggression.
“It gives the women a sense of accomplishment when they can help an animal overcome his problems,” says section commander Sgt. Dave Williams. “At the same time, the animal is helping them overcome their problems.” One inmate was asked how she felt about living in a tent while the animals live in air-conditioned quarters. “They didn’t do anything wrong,” she replied. “I did.”
After the case is adjudicated and the animals have recovered from their injuries, they are spayed or neutered and put up for adoption. MASH is a no-kill shelter, and all of the animals remain in the care of the inmates until they can be placed in suitable homes.
As animal welfare programs continue to grow within the U.S. system of corrections, there are those who believe that such programs place the animals in danger and shouldn’t exist. But the benefits far outweigh any potential, and to date unfounded, negative effects. “Correctional institutions provide an ideal environment to change [animal] behavior,” says Stephanie LaFarge, Ph.D., director of ASPCA counseling services. “The animal doesn’t feel like he’s in jail…just the opposite. What we think of as a negative environment, the animal thinks is wonderful.
“Animal advocates need to support these programs,” LaFarge continues. “They’re helping animals who are otherwise relatively undesirable, and giving them a good chance at a new and better life.”
As testament to the rehabilitative properties of such programs, more and more correctional institutions are realizing what Jesse Williams of Mansfield has known all along—that these programs not only provide training and socialization for the animals, but also for the prisoners.
“Anything that’s good is hard to keep to yourself,” says Williams. “But these programs do a lot of good things, not only for the animals and for the inmates, but for the communities as a whole.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Tender Loving Dog Care Adoptions~ Mansfield Correctional Institution P.O. Box 788, Mansfield, OH 44901(419) 525-4455, ext. 2010
Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation
TLC Greyhound Adoption 323 2400 Avenue, Solomon, KS 67480(785) 655-2208www.tlcgreyhoundadoption.com
Maricopa County Sheriff's OfficeAnimal Safe Hos
pice(602) 256-1923www.mcso.orgOhio Wildlife Center 2661 Billingsley Rd.Columbus, OH 43235www.ohiowildlifecenter.org
Sunday, May 24, 2009
STATE OF OHIO PRISON DOG PROGRAM
Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Community Service - Dog Program
Address
770 West Broad StreetColumbus, Ohio 43222
Phone
614-752-1091
Many institutions participate in Inmate Community Service Dog Programs, including training and caring for puppies and dogs for programs that assist persons who are physically and/or visually impaired.
Allen Correctional Institution
Program
Pets Educated to Survive (PETS)
Description
Trains and socializes abandoned or surrendered animals through Angels for Animals Rescue League. Dogs receive basic obedience training which will hopefully make them more adoptable when returned to the rescue.
Adoption Through
Angels for Animals
Cost
$125 and includes spay/neuter, vaccines, microchipping, 45 days free pet insurance.
Partner Contact
Sandee Laing (419) 339-9408 or angelsforanimals@gmail.com
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH211&sort=&preview=1
Prison Contact
Vern Bill Pugsley (419) 224-8000 or vern.pugsley@odrc.state.oh.us
Adoption Through
Belmont Correctional Institution
Program
Golden Endings
Description
Rescues neglected, abused, and abandoned dogs and provides obedience training.
Adoption Through
Golden Endings Rescue League
Cost
$75 to $200 includes spay and all shots.
Partner Contact
Marsha Sines (740) 859-2255
Web Address
http://www.goldenendings.org/
Prison Contact
Sandra Presley at 740-695-5169, Ext. 3903 or Sandra.Presley@odrc.state.oh.us
* * * * * * * * * *
Program
Save a Puppy
Description
Rescues neglected, abused, and abandoned dogs and provides obedience training.
Adoption Through
Belmont County Animal Rescue League
Cost
$85 application approval.
Partner Contact
Belmont County Animal Rescue League (740) 695-4798
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/search/search.cgi?action=1&pet.Animal=Dog&pet.Breed=&pet.Age=&pet.Size=&pet.Sex=&location=43950&preview=1&scope=2&x=21&y=9
Prison Contact
Shane at 740-695-5169, Ext. 3400 or mailto:Sandra.Presley@odrc.state.oh.us
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Program
Love at First Sight Rescue League
Description
Provides obedience training for greyhounds.
Adoption Through
Love at First Sight Rescue League
Cost
$250
Partner Contact
Barbara Dorsey: (330) 637-5228 or lafs@yahoo.com
Prison Contact
Sandra Presley at 740-695-5169, Ext. 3903 or Sandra.Presley@odrc.state.oh.us [Back to top]
Chillicothe Correctional Institution
Program (1)
Airedale Terrier Rescue and Adoption (ATRA) Inc.
Description
Trains rescued animal shelter dogs in basic obedience.
Adoption
Through ATRA
Cost
$300 to $400 purebred rescue online adoption only.
Web Address
http://www.aire-rescue.com/
Prison Contact
Jaime (740) 774-7080, Ext. 2136 or Jaime.glandon@odrc.state.oh.us
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Program
Purebred Rescue Organization
Description
Trains rescued animal shelter dogs in basic obedience.
Adoption
Through Purebred Rescue Organization
Cost
Application available online. Adoption Cost $200
Partner Contact
Purebred Rescue Organization (866) 841-9137, Ext. 1233
Web Address
www.purebredrescueorganization.com/
Prison Contact
Jaime (740) 774-7080, Ext. 2136 or Jaime.glandon@odrc.state.oh.us
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Program
Zanesville Animal Shelter Society
Description
Trains rescued animal shelter dogs in basic obedience.
Adoption Through
Zanesville Animal Shelter Society
Cost
$150
Partner Contact
Becky Kelson (740) 452-1077
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=Dog&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH181&sort=pet.Identifier&preview=1
Prison Contact
Jaime (740) 774-7080, Ext. 2136 or Jaime.glandon@odrc.state.oh.uss
Program
Eskies Behind Bars
Description
Houses Eskimos, full and mixed breed for Tender Loving Canine Rescue to assist in successful adoptions.
Adoption Through
Tender Loving Canine Rescue
Cost
$100 to $300 includes spay and current shots and vaccinations.
Partner Contact
Don and Tracie Cobb (614) 519-5705
Web Address
http://www.tlcrescue.com/
Prison Contact
Denise Larson (614) 445-5960, Ext. 2701 ormailto:denise.larson@ODRC.state.oh.us
Program
Golden Endings Golden Retriever Rescue
Description
Trains dogs in obedience for family adoptions
Adoption Through
Golden Endings
Cost
$200
Partner Contact
Kay Hirsch (614) 488-4966
Web Address
http://www.goldenendings.org/
Prison Contact
Dianna Prater or Michelle McCollister (614) 877-2441, Ext. 7323 or mailto:dianna.prater@odrc.state.oh.usmichelle.mccollister@odrc.state.oh.us
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Program
Buckeye Border Collie Rescue
Description
Trains dogs in obedience for family adoptions.
Adoption Through
Buckeye Border Collie Rescue - $200
Cost
$200
Partner Contact
Wanda Heyman (419) 447-8095
Web Address
www.buckeyebcrescue.org/index.html
Prison Contact
Dianna Prater or Michelle McCollister (614) 877-2441, Ext. 7323 or mailto:dianna.prater@odrc.state.oh.usmichelle.mccollister@odrc.state.oh.us
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Program
Citizens for Humane Action
Description
Trains dogs in obedience for family adoptions.
Adoption Through
Citizens for Humane Action
Cost
$90
Partner Contact
Shuralee Laidley (614) 891-5280
Web Address
http://www.chaanimalshelter.org/
Prison Contact
Dianna Prater or Michelle McCollister (614) 877-2441, Ext. 7323 or mailto:dianna.prater@odrc.state.oh.us michelle.mccollister@odrc.state.oh.us
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Program
Fairfield Area Humane Society
Description
Trains dogs in obedience for family adoptions
Adoption Through
Fairfield Area Humane Society
Cost
$90
Partner Contact
Bree Lambert (740) 687-0627
Web Address
http://www.fairhumane.org/
Prison Contact
Dianna Prater or Michelle McCollister (614) 877-2441, Ext. 7323 or mailto:dianna.prater@odrc.state.oh.usmichelle.mccollister@odrc.state.oh.us
Dayton Correctional Institution
Program
Team Greyhound of Ohio Inc.
Description
Trains retired greyhounds for family adoption.
Adoption Through
Team Greyhound of Ohio Inc.
Cost
Adoption fee $200; $100 non-refundable
Partner Contact
Pam Voss(877) 842 6446 or nettienvanilla@yahoo.com
Web Address
http://www.teamgreyhound.com/
Prison Contact
Virgil 263-0058, Ext. 3217 or mailto:Virgil.Oattes@odrc.state.oh.us
Program
Pilot Dogs, Inc.
Description
Puppies are trained to assist the hearing and/or visually impaired. They learn socialization and basic commands.
Adoption Through
Please contact Pilot Dogs, Inc., 625 West Town Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Cost
$75
Partner Contact
Toni Gray (614) 449-2136
Prison Contact
Ann Hawke (614) 445-8600, ext. 2256 or mailto:Ann.Hawke@odrc.state.oh.us?subject=Pilot
Grafton Correctional Institution
Program
Love-A-Pup
Description
Trains dogs in obedience for family adoptions.
Adoption Through
Lorain County Animal Protection League (APL)
Cost
$70 includes spay, first set of shots, worming, and veterinarian exam.
Partner Contact
Denise Willis (440) 322-4321
Web Address
http://www.friendshipapl.org/ or http://www.petfinder.com/
Prison Contact
Venessa Shepherd (440)748-1161, Ext. 392 or mailto:Venessa.Shepherd@odrc.state.oh.us
Program
Avalon Animal Rescue
Description
Trains dogs in obedience for family adoptions.
Adoption Through
Avalon Animal Rescue
Cost
$130; all adoptions require a home visit and a vet reference.
Partner Contact
Carol Lambert (740) 448-7339 or acramer@frognet.net
Web Address
www.petfinder.org/shelters/OH261.html
Prison Contact
Anne Richardson, (740) 753-1917 Ext. 251
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Program
Canine Companions for Independence
Description
Trains dogs in obedience training for family adoptions.
Adoption Through
Canine Companions for Independence. To apply for a Canine Companion, call 1-800-572-2275.
Cost
Assistance dogs $100. Release dogs (those that did not meet program criteria) no cost. However, donations accepted.
Partner Contact
Suzanne Sliclen (800) 572-2275, 740- 548-4447(Voice/TTY), or mailto:ssliclen@cci.org
Web Address
http://www.caninecompanions.org/
Prison Contact
William ) 753-1917, Ext. 225 or mailto:William.Hanna@odrc.state.oh.us[
Lake Erie Correctional Institution
Program
Pound Puppy
Description
Trains dogs in obedience training for family adoptions
Adoption Through
Animal Protection League (APL).
Cost
Adoption fee $100
Prison Contact
Shannon Otto at (440) 599-5000, Ext. 5551, or mailto:Shannon.otto@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Ashtabula County Animal Protective League, Peggy Taylor at (440)224-1222
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/ [
Lebanon Correctional Institution
Program
Description
Train dogs for service work (i.e. handicap, nursing homes, etc) and basic obedience for adoption to private homes.
Adoption
Through Circle Tail, Inc.
Cost
$95.00 and up, depending on the level of training of the dog.
Prison Contact
Sharon James at (513) 932-1211, or Sharon.James@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Circle Tail, Inc. Marlys Staley, 513-877-3325, e-mail mailto:Marlys@circletail.org
Web Address
http://www.circletail.org/
London Correctional Institution
Program
Circle Tail, Inc.
Description
Train dogs for service work (i.e. handicap, nursing homes, etc) and basic obedience for adoption to private homes.
Adoption Through
Circle Tail, Inc.
Cost
$95.00 and up, depending on the level of training of the dog.
Prison Contact
Sonja Holcomb, Birch Unit, at (740) 852-245, Ext. 4210
Partner Contact
Circle Tail, Inc. Marlys Staley, 513-877-3325, e-mail Marlys@circletail.org
Web Address
http://www.circletail.org/
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Program
Pure Bred Rescue (P.R.O.)
Description
Trains dogs in obedience training for family adoptions
Adoption Through
Pure Bred Rescue (P.R.O.), Lori Blackburn, P.O. Box 88, Bellbrook, Ohio 45305
Cost
$200 - $250
Prison Contact
Sonja Holcomb, Birch Unit, at (740) 852-2454 Ext. 4210
Partner Contact
Lori Blackburn at (866) 841-9137
Web Address
http://www.purebredrescueorganization.com/
Lorain Correctional Institution
Program
Team Greyhound of Ohio Inc.
Description
Trains retired greyhounds for family adoption
Adoption Through
Team Greyhound of Ohio Inc.
Cost
Adoption fee $200, $100 non-refundable
Prison Contact
Roberta Winkle, at (440) 748-1040
Partner Contact
Team Greyhound Adoption of Ohio, Pam Voss at (877) 842 6446 or nettienvanilla@yahoo.com
Web Address
http://www.teamgreyhound.com/
Madison Correctional Institution
Program
Fresh Start Program
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Madison County Humane Society
Cost
$90 adoption fee, $12 license fee, includes spay or neuter, one-year rabies, and current shots and vaccinations
Prison Contact(s)
Mike Reger at (740) 8852-9777, Ext. 2479, or Michael.reger@odrc.state.oh.us or Christa Hackworth at 740) 885-9777, Ext. 2672, or mailto:christa.Hackworth@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Fresh Start, Madison County Humane Society
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH36&sort=pet.Identifier&preview=1
Mansfield Correctional Institution
Program (1)
Tender Loving Dog Care (TLDC)
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Ashland County Humane Society
Cost
$125
Prison Contact
Roma Paulsen at (419) 526-2000, Ext. 2023, or mailto:Roma.Paulsen@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Ashland County Humane Society, Brenda Kaufman at (419) 289-0122
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
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Program
Team Greyhound
Description
Foster and train retired greyhounds for family adoption
Adoption Through
Cost
$200 application fee, $100 non-refundable. Older dogs, $125.
Prison Contact
Roma Paulsen at (419) 526-2000, Ext. 2023, or mailto:Roma.Paulsen@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Team Greyhound Adoptions of Ohio
Web Address
http://www.teamgreyhound.com/
Marion Correctional Institution
Program
Pound Puppies
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Marion Correctional Institution
Cost
$100
Prison Contact
Chris Needham at (740) 382-5781, or Christine.Needham@odrc.state.oh.us
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
Partner Contact
Zanesville Animal Shelter
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Program
Animal Shelter Society
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Humane Society and Zanesville Animal Shelter via Marion Correctional Institution
Cost
$100
Prison Contact
Chris Needham at (740) 382-5781, or Christine.Needham@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Through institution
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
Montgomery Education and Pre-Release Center
Program
Pilot Dog
Description
Trains dog for the visually and hearing impaired
Adoption Through
Pilot Dogs, Inc., 550 Stimmel Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43223
Cost
Donation fee of $75.00
Prison Contact
Cedric Tolbert, MEPRC Recreation Director, P.O. Box 17399, Dayton, Ohio 45417, (937) 262-9853, Ext. 2254. or mailto:Cedric.Tolbert@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Pilot Dogs, Inc.,Laura Schott, (614) 449-2136
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
Noble Correctional Institution
Program
Cell Dogs
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
County partners Muskingum, Guernsey, Monroe, Tuscarawas and Perry
Cost
$35 adoption fee, includes shots, food and other essentials
Prison Contact
Margaret Mace at (740) 732-5188, Ext. 3822; or Michelle Richards at (740) 732-5188, Ext.3912
Partner Contact
Muskingum county, The Animal Shelter Society Inc, Betty at (740) 452-1077; Guernsey County, Pound Partners, Barb McDonald at (740) 439-5505 or Birgit Jackson at (740) 260-2536, or birgit@core.com; Monroe County, Alicia at (740) 934-2740; Tuscarawas county (n/a), and Perry County Tom Altier at (740) 342-2642.
Web Address
http://www.petfinders.com/
North Central Correctional Institution
Pilot Dog
Description
Trains dog for the visually and hearing impaired
Adoption Through
Pilot Dogs, Inc., 550 Stimmel Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43223
Cost
Donation fee of $75.00
Prison Contact
Marth Jerew at (740)387-7040, Ext. 2170, or Marth.Jerew@odrc.state.oh.us; or Theresa Jolliff at (740) 387-7040, or mailto:Theresa.Jolliff@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Pilot Dogs, Inc.,Laura Schott, (614) 449-2136
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
North Coast Correctional Treatment Facility
Program
Pound Puppy Programs
Description
Adoption Through
Lorain County SPCA
Cost
Varies
Prison Contact
Erin (440) 748-5000, Ext. 2025; or Ehoak@mtctrains.com
Partner Contact
Lorain County SPCA, Sherre Manfull, (440) 748-3818
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/[Back to top]
Northeast Pre-Release Center
Program (1)
Lake County Humane Society
Description
Foster, domesticate, and nurse back to health, abandoned and or abused cats, kittens, dogs, or puppies for family adoption.
Adoption Through
Lake County Humane Society
Cost
Kittens under 6 months, $95; puppies, $125; over 6 months to 6 years, kittens $65, dogs $85.75; more than 6 years, kittens, $50, puppies, $65.75.
Prison Contact
Susan za at (216) 771-6460, Ext. 2603, or mailto:Susan.Sapienza@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Contact the institution
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=MN185&sort=&preview=1
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Program
Safety for Animals and Families in Emergencies (SAFE)
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
SAFE
Cost
Will accept donations
Prison Contact
Susan Sapienza at (216) 771-6460, Ext. 2603, or mailto:Susan.Sapienza@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Contact prison
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
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Program
Working Animals Giving Service (WAGS)
Description
Foster and train dogs for disabled children
Adoption Through
No adoptions
Cost
N/A
Prison Contact
Susan Sapienza at (216) 771-6460, Ext. 2603, or mailto:Susan.Sapienza@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Contact prison
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
Program
Oakwood Dog Harbor Program
Description
Trains rescued dogs from area shelters in obedience training
Adoption
Through Area Humane Societies
Cost
Adoption fee ranges from $55-$100
Prison Contact
Dirk D. Esmonde at (419) 225-8052, Ext. 3005, or Karen.esmonde@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Allen County Dog Warden, Angels For Animals, Shelby County Humane Society, Hand Me Down Dobes, Lots of Love Rescue, Auglaize County Humane Society
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/
Program (1)
Circle Tails
Description
Trains dogs for family adoptions and service dogs
Adoption Through
Circle Tail, Inc.
Cost
Adoption fee $95.00 and up, depending on the level of training.
Prison Contact
Jill Schweitzer at 937-642-1065, ext 2072 (must go through prison operator) or Jill.Schweitzer@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Circle Tail, Inc. Marlys Staley, 513-877-3325, e-mail Marlys@circletail.org
Web Address
http://www.circletail.org/
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Program
Second Chance Dogs
Description
Trains retired greyhounds for family adoption
Adoption Through
Team Greyhound Adoptions of Ohio, Inc.
Cost
$100 non-refundable deposit included in $200 adoption fee
Prison Contact
Sgt. McGraw at 937-642-1065, ext. 3085 (must go through prison operator) or Cathy.McGraw@odrc.state.oh.us
Web Address
http://www.teamgreyhound.com/
Partner Contact
Pam Voss at 877-842-6446 (Team Greyhound Adoptions of Ohio) or nettienvanilla@yahoo.com
Angels For Animals
Description
Trains dogs in obedience training for family adoptions
Adoption Through
Angels For Animals
Cost
$100 adoption fee
Prison Contact
Twila Swarthout at (330) 743-0700, Ext. 6000, or mailto:Twila.Swarthout@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Angels For Animals at 4750 State Rt. 165, Canfield, Ohio 44406, or (330)-549-1111
Web Address
http://www.angelsforanimals.org/
Pickaway Correctional Institution
Program
Team Greyhound of Ohio Inc.
Description
Trains retired greyhounds for family adoption
Adoption Through
Team Greyhound of Ohio Inc.
Cost
Prison Contact
Sherri Tillett at (614) 877-4362, Ext. 515, or Sherri.Tillett@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Team Greyhound Adoption of Ohio, Pam Voss at (877) 842 6446 or nettienvanilla@yahoo.com
Web Address
http://www.teamgreyhound.com/
Richland Correctional Institution
Program (1)
Pound Puppy Program
Description
Trains dogs for family placement
Adoption Through
Mid Ohio Animal Welfare League (contact: 419-566-3898)
Cost
Prison Contact
Debra Wipert at (419) 526-2100, or Debra.Wipert@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Mid Ohio Animal Welfare League, Carla DeWitt at (419) 566-3898, or cdewitt@neo.rr.com
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH518&sort=&preview=1
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Program
Pound Puppy Program
Description
Trains dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Logan County Shelter at (937) 593-4277
Cost
$75
Prison Contact
Debra Wipert at (419) 526-2100, or Debra.Wipert@odrc.state.oh.us
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH205&sort=&preview=1
Partner Contact
Becki Kelson (740) 452-1077 or Lori Merritt, at (740) 297-1080, or Becki@globalco.net
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Program
Pound Puppy Program
Description
Trains dogs for family adoption (740) 297-1080
Adoption Through
Kind Hands 4 PAWS
Cost
$75
Prison Contact
Debra Wipert at (419) 526-2100, or Debra.Wipert@odrc.state.oh.us
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH518&sort=&preview=1
Program
Circle Tail, Inc.
Description
Train dogs for service work (i.e. handicap, nursing homes, etc) and basic obedience for adoption to private homes.
Adoption Through
Circle Tail, Inc.
Cost
$95.00 and up, depending on the level of training of the dog.
Prison Contact
Janice Monroe at 740-774-7050 ext. 2561
Partner Contact
Circle Tail, Inc. Staley, 513-877-3325, e-mail mailto:Marlys@circletail.org
Web Address
http://www.circletail.org/
Southeastern Correctional Institution
Program
Athens County Dog Shelter
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Hocking County Dog Shelter
Cost
$50 application fee
Prison Contact
Darrell Cunningham at (740) 653-4324, Ext. 2200
Partner Contact
Don Crager at (740) 385-2319
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH188&sort=&preview=1
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Program
Perry County Humane Society
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Perry County Humane Society
Cost
$50 application fee
Prison Contact
Darrell Cunningham at (740) 653-4324, Ext. 2200
Partner Contact
Don Crager at (740) 385-2319
Web Address
http://search.petfinder.com/shelterSearch/shelterSearch.cgi?animal=&breed=&age=&size=&specialNeeds=&declawedPets=&children=&status=&id=&internal=&contact=&name=&shelterid=OH260&sort=&preview=1
Toledo Correctional Institution
Program
Assistance Living Dogs
Description
Foster and train dogs for the disabled
Adoption Through
N/A
Cost
N/A
Prison Contact
Linda Meeks at (419) 426-7977, Ext 7234, or Linda.Meeks@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
Assistance Dogs of America, Inc. (ADAI), Chris Diefenthaler, Executive Director at (419) 825-3622
Web Address
http://www.adai.org/
Trumbull Correctional Institution
Program
Rose's Rescue
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
Rose's Rescue
Cost
$95.00
Prison Contact
Sharon Chilson (330) 898-0820 Ext. 2041
Partner Contact
Rose's Rescue
Web Address
http://www.rosesrescue.org/
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Program
Trumbull County Animal Welfare League
Description
Foster and train abandoned dogs for family adoption
Adoption Through
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/OH282.html
Cost
Prison Contact
Sharon Chilson (330) 898-0820 Ext. 2041
Partner Contact
330-399-2086
Web Address
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/OH282.html
Warren Correctional Institution
Program
4 PAWS For Ability
Description
Provides obedience training and placement of service dogs for family placement or for people with disabilities. A large majority of the 4PAWS dogs go to children with autism. The goals of 4 PAWS is to provide everyone defined with as disabled with a service dog, reduce the number of unwanted animals and increase public awareness of the laws regarding service animals and those defined as disabled.
Adoption Through
4 PAWS For Ability.
Cost
Adoption fees vary, usually around $125-175.00-includes spay/neuter, vaccinations and microchip. License fee NOT included.
Prison Contact
Doris Baker, (614) 513-932-3388, Ext. 2242, Doris.Baker@odrc.state.oh.us
Partner Contact
4 PAWS For Ability, Karen Shirk, 937-374-0385, http://www.4pawsforability.org/ or Karen4paws@aol.com
Web Address
http://www.4pawsforability.org/ [Back to top]