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
* * * * * * * * * *

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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

Correctional Medical Center

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

Corrections Reception Center

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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

Franklin Pre-Release Center

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

Hocking Correctional Facility

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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/
* * * * * * * * * *

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/
* * * * * * * * * *

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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

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
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
* * * * * * * * * *

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/
* * * * * * * * * *

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/

Oakwood Correctional Facility

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/

Ohio Reformatory for Women

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/
* * * * * * * * * *

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

Ohio State Penitentiary

Program
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
* * * * * * * * * *

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
* * * * * * * * * *

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

Ross 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
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
* * * * * * * * * *

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/
* * * * * * * * * *

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]

DOGS TRAINED TO AID WOUNDED

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Dogs Trained to Aid Wounded

Sgt. Shaft June 25, 2007
Dear Sgt. Shaft:

If you or your readers know of any wounded soldier who could benefit by having a dog — trained by prisoners at the California Institution for Women in Southern California as well as other "prison-dog programs" across the country — to assist them, please let me know.


There are prison-dog programs in all parts of the country. After the start of the first school and others after, the idea caught on. The dogs are given to the wounded veteran free of charge. They will be taught how to handle the dog, care for him or her and find new independence partnered with their canine friends, who can go in all public places.


One of the programs is known as Dog Bless America. This program is expanding the vision to include America's current veteran heroes. By combining their efforts with Pathways to Hope, the prison-dog program and many of the Veterans Affairs organizations across the country have created a win/win/win situation.


In 1981, Sister Pauline Quinn started the prison-dog program in Washington state, rescuing shelter dogs and bringing them into the prison, where inmates trained them to assist the handicapped. The inmates learned responsibility through the care and training of these special dogs.


Sister Pauline has started Pathways to Hope, a nonprofit organization that helps other prisons and service-dog groups start prison-dog programs.


Pathways to Hope identifies the programs and dogs to be matched with the veterans. Pathways receives funds from Dog Bless America, money that is then given to a particular prison program that can match and place a service dog to help a wounded soldier.


I am asking you and your readers to help us communicate this program to the people in need of these services. We will attempt to match them with a special service dog. Sister Pauline and Pathways will handle the initial contact, and each prison program has its own screening process.

The points of contact are: srpauline@pathwaystohope.org

http://prisondogs.shutterfly.com pathwaystohope.blogspot.com and Chris Gaba


Chris Gaba

Dear Chris:
I am happy to help get the word out on this wonderful program. Sgt. Shaft

WHAT ARE PRISON DOG TRAINING PROGRAMS?

DWIGHT CORRECTIONAL CENTER FOR WOMEN

Dwight, Illinois

What Are Prison Dog Training Programs?

CONTACT srpauline@pathwaystohope.org


Prison dog training programs are programs which bring dogs into prisons so that prisoners can train them. These programs have a number of important functions, from training dogs so that they are suitable for adoption to providing prisoners with therapeutic experiences, and they have become quite popular in some regions of the world. A typical prison dog training program involves at least one animal welfare organization or a service dog school and a prison, and sometimes multiple dog rescues and training organizations will cooperate to ensure that the program is a success.

From the point of view of animal welfare organizations, prison dog training programs give dogs a better chance at finding homes, or helping the handicapped to receive their specially trained dog by giving the dogs extra time in training. While in the program, the dogs will learn basic canine manners, becoming skilled at interacting with other dogs and obeying commands from their handlers, and the dogs often become calmer and more friendly as a result of focused handling.

Service dog schools have many clients waiting to receive their special dog and the prison dog programs help these organizations train these special dogs to cut down the waiting time.

The inmates also have the time to work with the dog all day because the dog lives with the inmates. Also, for the dog dog rescues program in prisons, the lack the time to dedicate extensive resources to every single dog in their care, prison dog training programs allow these organizations to farm out some of the work, making dogs more adoptable and meeting the primary goals of these organizations.

Prisons also benefit from prison dog training programs. Behavioral problems tend to decrease dramatically when prisoners are involved in such programs, and the prison also experiences improved public relations as a result of the program. Participating in a rehabilitative program can also give a prison access to grant money and other assistance which might not be available under normal conditions.

Prisoners in prison dog training programs learn skills, in the form of dog training, but they also benefit emotionally from their participation. Interacting with animals has been shown to have therapeutic value in a wide variety of settings, and prison is no different. Some prisoners feel isolated in prison, and connecting with a dog can help dispel that isolation, promoting a more healthy mental state on the part of prisoners and encouraging prisoners to work hard and take their experiences with them when they leave prison. Prison dog training programs also help prisoners with boredom and restlessness, two common problems in prison but they also give the inmates an oppertunity to 'give back' to our communities.

Competition among prisoners for the honor of participating in prison dog training programs can get fierce. Most prisons only allow model prisoners to participate in such programs, taking away the privilege if a prison violates prison rules. Prisoners have an incentive to behave well to stay in the program, and other prisoners often follow their example in the hopes of being allowed to work with the dogs as well, making the prison calmer and easier to live and work in.

PRISON DOG PROGRAM ~ AUSTRALIA ~ TRAINING DOGS TO HELP THE BLIND

CLICK HERE

VIDEO ~ PAWS IN PRISON DOG PROGRAM

CLICK HERE

PAWS IN PRISON is in Lockhart, Texas that allows female inmates to train and adopt out dogs to the community.

PRISON DOG PROGRAM ~ FORMOSA

The Sentient World of Animals

Prison Dog Program Benefits Inmates and Stray Dogs
By Hsinchu News Group, Formosa (Originally in Chinese)


Warden Huang and the stray dogs he cares for
Mr. Huang Rong-rui, the warden of Hsinchu Prison, loves dogs. After his pet dog died, he turned his attention to stray dogs, befriending the four-legged friends that wander around the prison premises. In time, the dogs began to show up regularly at a chosen site, waiting to be fed. Warden Huang once saw a TV program on how a US prison allowed inmates to raise and train stray dogs. This inspired him to create a first-of-its-kind prison in Formosa that offers shelter to stray animals and places inmates in charge of feeding, managing and training them. He hoped that through interaction with animals, inmates could learn self-control, emotion management and respect for life. The trained dogs could be made available for adoption and this would help take care of the problem of stray dogs as well.

The plan received immediate, overwhelming support from the Formosan Animal-Assisted Activity and Therapy Association (FAAATA), which helps choose suitable dogs from animal shelters and provides professional instruction to interested inmates on how to take care of them.

The inmates first built a kennel by welding scrap metals together. The prison then organized a training program for seven selected inmates who loved dogs or were experienced in raising dogs, and assigned a dog to each of them. Professional FAAATA instructors currently hold weekly classes for the inmates on dog-caring and training.

Over the past month, the dogs and their trainers have developed a loving relationship. The trainers work at the kennel from 9 to 4 each day, feeding, training, bathing and keeping the dogs free of bugs. Each of the dogs can now recognize his or her partner and perform according to instruction. The inmates have learned much from the program. One of the participants, Mr. Luo, said that although considerable effort was required to establish an affectionate and trusting relationship with a prison dog, he had mastered the special skills of taking care of, beautifying and training a dog. He plans to hone and make use of these skills after he is released from prison. The success of the Prison Dog plan has encouraged the prison to draw up plans for training drug dogs to prevent the smuggling of drugs into prison.

Though launched not long ago, the Prison Dog plan in Hsinchu has proved to be remarkably successful. Prisoners have regained self-confidence, assimilated the concept of loving animals, and learned to love themselves and respect life. Furthermore, the once abandoned but now professionally trained dogs are able to accompany aged inmates or those serving long prison terms to give them comfort and psychological support. They can also assist the prison staff in patrolling and ensuring prison security. In addition, they are available for adoption by other people. Hopefully the Prison Dog plan can be introduced to every prison in Formosa and benefit both inmates and stray dogs.

PRISON PUP PROGRAM

Canine Support Teams, Inc.

951-301-3625
cstmain@caninesupportteams.org

The "Prison Pup Program" was conceived out of a dream from a tenacious woman named Sister Pauline Quinn. Already being the trailblazer for many other Prison Training programs in which inmates are trained, mentored and finally trusted with the privilege and responsibility of training dogs for service to the disabled community, Sr. Pauline Quinn made a call to John Dovey, Warden of CIW in 2002. She also contacted Carol Roquemore, CST's founder and CEO. Due to her tenacity and her belief in the rehabilitative benefits for the inmates and the obvious assistance they could provide to the community, in addition to the expectation of being able to shorten a nearly three year waiting list for service dogs, both John Dovey and Carol Roquemore could not say no. They embraced the opportunity to see the good that could come out of such a match!

In September of 2002, the California Institution for Women became the first prison within the state of California to have a Service Dog Training Program. Four puppies between the ages of five months and seven months walked into the prison to become California's first "Prison Pups in Training." For the first time in over twenty years for some of the inmate volunteers, they were able to hold a puppy, feel the love a puppy could give, and provide for this puppy some much needed socialization and training.

Since it's inception, the "Prison Pup Program" has grown in leaps and bounds. The inmate trainers are now playing a vital role in the training of service dogs for the disabled community. Canine Support Teams soon realized that because of the dedication and attention to detail that the inmates demonstrated, that these women would be crucial in the task of advanced training for service dogs. What a perfect marriage! Dedicated women that had the time to devote to training a dog and wanted to give back to society~and individuals in the community that needed assistance.

We have grown significantly since September of 2002. What began with four puppies and approximately twenty participants, has grown into the current program of twenty dogs and over sixty inmate participants. Over eighty-five percent of the dogs that we place yearly with clients, are trained through the Prison Pup Program.

Canine Support Teams would like to thank each and every individual that contributes to the success of the "Prison Pup Program." Without your encouragement, your enthusiasm and your care and concern for the dogs and the mission of this program, we could not accomplish all that we have in such a short time!

CENTRAL BARK HELPS WOUNDED VETERANS WITH SERVICE DOGS

CLICK HERE

Heman G. Stark Youth Offender Shelter Dog Training Program

CLICK HERE

VIDEO ~ 9 COLORADO PRISONS HAVE PRISON DOG PROGRAMS

CLICK HERE

CALIFORNIA INSTITUTION FOR WOMEN PRISON DOG GRADUATION

CLICK HERE

VIDEO ~ PROJECT POOCH ~ YOUTH CORRECTIONAL DOG PROGRAM

CLICK HERE

PRISON DOG VIDEO

CLICK HERE

VIDEO ~ CNN COURTHOUSE DOGS

PRISON DOG PROGRAM TOUCHES MANY LIVES

The Prison Dog Project transforms the lives of many people



February 14, 10:09 PM ·
The Prison Dog Project touches many lives

The Prison Dog Project is a program that brings dogs with unsocial characteristics that render them inadaptable into correctional facilities to be trained by inmates. Started in 1981 by Dominican nun Sister Pauline Quinn, the program has been adopted throughout and outside the U.S.

One of the reasons the program has been successful is it transforms the lives of many people and animals at once.

It touches the lives of prison inmates and guards, people with disabilities, society as a whole and the dogs. Animals form a natural bridge between people that has affected the relationships between prison guards and inmates, inmates and the public and people with disabilities and society. Animals, especially dogs, break the ice and foster communication and connection.

In the project, prisoners are responsible for the care and training of dogs to be good citizens or for service for training schools, people with disabilities or law enforcement. Prisoners learn skills such as dog training and grooming and earn money providing services to private dog owners. This income is used to train service dogs that go to people with disabilities free of charge. Some inmates become so expert that potential employers want to hire them upon release.

The presence of dogs in prison has had therapeutic effects relieving tensions and reducing violence. The relationship between prison guards and prisoners is improved. The unconditional love from dogs has helped prisoners access long buried feelings and armored hearts. Prisoners speak of the reward of knowing they’re preparing the dog so it can pass its restorative effect on to a future owner. Prisoners get in touch with a sense of meaning and purpose doing something that regenerates them while also helping others.

The Prison Dog Project decreases the waiting list for assistance dogs and helps people with disabilities get dogs faster, opening up accessibility and social contact. The dogs also help society connect with the disability community.

The project helps society by redeeming and rehabilitating prisoners enabling them to become happier, healthier members of society. The prisoners learn or reclaim responsibility, tolerance, patience and other qualities beneficial to society.

The project saves the lives of dogs that would otherwise be euthanized. They are given a second chance by being trained to be good citizens or for service and returned to society.

The Prison Dog Project relies primarily on donations and supplies from the public in order to continue and expand.

Prison Dog Programs ~ Finding Hope

Visting the State Prison in Florida to see if we can start a prison dog program
~ This Doberman loves people and other dogs ~

The warden from a prison in Central Florida and the warden of a prison in Miami on right

The wardens of a Federal prison in Jessup, GA

Our visit to the prison in Jessup GA

Pathways To Hope Prison Dog Project ~ http://prisondogs.shutterfly.com

NEADS ~ PRISON DOG VIDEO

CLICK HERE

NEADS Dog Program NCCI was the first Massachusetts Department of Correction facility to incorporate National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEADS) back on December 23, 1998.

The program is a result of corroboration with Sister Pauline Quinn of , who has aided numerous correctional facilities across the country implement similar programs.

NEADS is a non-profit organization established to provide Hearing and Service Dogs for people who are deaf or who use wheelchairs. These Assistance Dogs become extensions of their owners and bring security, freedom, independence and relief from social isolation to their partners. NEADS is one of the oldest and largest programs of its kind.

COURTHOUSE DOGS ~ HELPING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Promoting justice through the use of well-trained dogs to provide emotional support for everyone in our criminal justice system

To Find Out More About The Wonderful Benefits of Courthouse Dogs go to ~

http://www.courthousedogs.com/index.html

Ellen O'Neill-Stephens
Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Ellen O'Neill-Stephens , Founder, has worked for the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office located in Seattle, Washington since 1985. The courthouse dog program began in 2003 when Ellen's son, Sean Stephens, shared his service dog Jeeter with those in need at Juvenile Drug Court one day a week.

What are Courthouse Dogs?
We use the term “courthouse dogs” for two reasons.

The courthouse is the epicenter of the criminal justice system. Although the dogs may assist people outside the courthouse, their work is done with the expectation that the case will be concluded in that setting.
Canines are not just “man’s best friend,” but have served mankind in institutional settings for centuries. The courthouse dogs of the 21st Century find a ready analog in the 19th Century firehouse dogs—the Dalmatians who were trained to run in front of a horse-drawn fire apparatus to clear a path and quickly guide the horses and firefighters to the scene. The Dalmatians also served as rescue dogs to locate victims in burning buildings.

We are confident that in this century the public will associate courthouse dogs with an equally vital role of improving the criminal justice system. Not only are they already helping prosecutors get to the truth more quickly, but they also assist crime victims by providing emotional support during the numerous points in the criminal justice process where they must relate, and relive, traumatic experiences.

PHOTO BELOW ~

The presence of a facility dog during a forensic interview can be a source of comfort to the child during the interview process and may allow them to more easily describe any abuse that that they may have experienced. A good forensic interview can greatly increase the strength of a case and may lead to a defendant accepting a plea.

AUSTRALIA ~ PRISON TRAINED SERVICE DOGS GRADUATE

Media Statements
Minister for Police, Corrective Services and Sport
The Honourable Judy Spence MP
Tuesday, April 29, 2008

First 'Pups in Prison' graduates to help disabled:

Corrective Services Minister Judy Spence with assistance dog Taylor, along with Darling Downs Correctional Centre General Manager Andrew Pike, centre, and Assistance Dogs Australia Chief Executive Officer Richard Lord

Spence Corrective Services Minister Judy Spence with assistance dog Taylor, along with Darling Downs Correctional Centre General Manager Andrew Pike, centre, and Assistance Dogs Australia Chief Executive Officer Richard LordThe first assistance dogs to participate in Queensland's innovative Pups in Prison program have today graduated from their 14 month training course at Darling Downs Correctional Centre.

Corrective Services Minister Judy Spence presented black Labradors siblings Toomba and Truman and Golden Retrievers siblings Topaz and Taylor, to Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) Chief Executive Officer Richard Lord, during a ceremony on the Speaker's Green at Parliament House.

Ms Spence said: "This program is a Queensland-first that brings puppies and prisoners together as part of a rehabilitation partnership between Assistance Dogs Australia and Queensland Corrective Services.

"These dogs have undergone 14 months basic training and socialising with prisoners at the Darling Downs Correctional Centre (DDCC) near Toowoomba, west of Brisbane.

"They will now be returned to ADA for a six month intensive training program before being matched to people with physical disabilities to enhance the person's quality of life and improve their level of independence.

"The dogs will eventually be able to turn light switches off and on, press pedestrian crossing buttons and pick up and retrieve items - tasks which people in wheelchairs find extremely difficult.

"This government is pleased to be part of an initiative that is making a real difference to lives of Queenslanders in need."

Ms Spence said the partnership with Assistance Dogs Australia is a prime example of how Queensland Corrective Services works with community organisations to provide prisoners with new opportunities for rehabilitation while giving something worthwhile back to the community.

Assistance dog showing obedience at the graduation day"Pups in Prison has provided prisoners with a positive experience, establishing new levels of responsibility, self-esteem and communication skills, while also developing patience, compassion and cooperation," Ms Spence said.

"Assistance Dogs Australia does a fantastic job in their work training companion dogs for people with disabilities and it is a pleasure to be involved in the important role they play in our community."

Assistance Dogs Australia CEO Richard Lord said the Pups in Prison program has been a huge success.

"We are very excited to see the inaugural graduation from the Darling Downs Correctional Centre," Mr Lord said.

"The pups look fantastic and are very well trained. The program has united the officers, prisoners and community volunteers whose combined efforts to train and socialise the pups has been outstanding.

"These remarkable dogs will change for the better the lives of young people who have suffered from developmental disabilities or quadriplegia as a result of traumatic accidents.

"We look forward to continuing the program with Queensland Corrective Services," Mr Lord said.

Ms Spence said the program has also provided significant learning opportunities for staff.

"Staff at Darling Downs and the volunteer obedience trainers have done a great job in developing the program," Ms Spence said.
Assistance dogs demonstrate their training "I know they are now looking forward to the arrival of the second group of puppies, due to start training at the centre in July."

Assistance dog showing obedience at the graduation day

Assistance dogs demonstrate their training

Media Contact: 3239 6172

Prison Dog Reni and the Doberman War Memorial

Prison Dog Program Pictures

Click Here to view Prison Dog Program pictures

ELLIE AND JENI OFF TO PRISON

ELLIE

Thanks to Bridgette Cole of Deerfield, Michigan ~ Bella Biche Chinese Cresteds for donating Ellie and Jeni who left for prison to be loved and trained by the inmates to be either a hearing dog for the deaf or a small service dog that rides on a wheelchair. If they don't make it, there are other wonderful plans for them. In the mean time, they are helping to bring bright smiles into Dwight Correctional women's prison in Illinois.

JENI

MATHEW, ANDY AND KEVIN SAYING GOODBYE TO JENI AND ELLIE

ONE TENDER MOMENT FOR MATHEW WITH ELLIE

NEW FRIENDS FOR ELLIE AND JENNY AT DWIGHT CORRECTIONAL

More about the Dwight Correctional HELPING PAWS prison dog program

click here

click here

click here

click here

SERVICE AND HEARING DOGS

DOGS TRAINED TO HELP WOUNDED VETS FROM ALL WARS

Greetings!

We have a new match!

Greetings Team! Congratulations! We have raised our first $12,000 for Pathways to Hope and the Prison Dog Program through Sr. Pauline. As you know this money went to the program that trained Jackson, who was matched with Sgt Arthur Lyles.



Today we are pleased to announce that Sr. has made a second match with a very special dog named Lance. Lance was one of the dogs that Jackie, Anne and Patty helped transfer to the Southern California Women's Penitentiary with Sr. Pauline. The man who has been matched with Lance is Robert Davis, a Marine, wounded in the Vietnam war. Robert lost both legs and a hand when he stepped on a land mine. Sadly he also lost his best buddy who tried to save him by throwing himself on top of Robert. Then during the evacuation with Robert, the helicopter rotor blades touched off a tree top mine which caused the helicopter to explode. He came to in another helicopter as they were rushing him to the hospital when he found out that his buddy had died. He was in several hospitals, including one in the Philippines and the naval hospital in San Francisco.


Robert has been alone since the 1980s. He has had no attendant and he was very lonely until he was matched Lance. He said that he talks all the time to his dog and Lance never stops listening. Robert said that one time he nodded off in his chair and dropped the television remote control. He woke up to see Lance holding the changer in his mouth by his knee, looking up to him. They are learning together; it takes awhile until they can become a working team.

Robert wants to make the public aware of service dogs, especially for the wounded Vets. He is quite a talker and you can tell, a military man.

He has two sons. One son lives near him and he has a 17 year old granddaughter who wants to be a veterinarian or a veterinarian technician.

We'd like to take this time to acknowledge each and every one of you. You are all making this possible and changing lives. You cannot imagine the difference that you have made in the lives of these 2 dogs and these 2 very brave men that have sacrificed so much for us. We want to thank you on behalf of Barkley Ventures, Inc for supporting Dog Bless America and our commitment to giving back to the community. It is only possible with you and your efforts. As Sr. Pauline said, "if we only help one, we've made a difference." As we write this our hearts are so full of gratitude for you and this opportunity.

We invite you to revitalize your own Dog Bless America programs today and together, lets support Robert and Lance. Thank you all so much for your efforts.

Sincerely,

Barkley Ventures, Inc.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

lisa@centralbarkusa.com

Barkley Ventures, Inc. 836 S. 60th. St. Milwaukee WI 53214

Prisoners Train Dogs for Wounded Marines

Camp Lejeune Prisoners Train Dogs for Wounded Marines Peter Biello


WILMINGTON, NC (2008-06-27) Prisoners at the Camp Lejeune Marine Base Brig are doing something no military prisoners in the US have done before: they're training dogs to help Marines wounded in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The dogs will perform more than seventy different tasks for their disabled owners, and for their able-bodied trainers, the dogs perform another service.

Twenty-three year old Mark wakes up at oh-five-hundred in the long, hollow bedroom he shares with nearly a dozen other prisoners in the brig at Camp Lejeune. Brig rules won't allow us to use Mark's last name. Along side his narrow cot is a cage, and inside that cage is Mark's constant companion, a black Lab mutt named Roxy.

Mark and another prisoner take care of Roxy. Mark is one of a select few prisoners enrolled in a special program guided by Carolina Canines, a dog-training company based in Wilmington.

"Being an inmate here, you constantly think about what you did. And it creates a nagging thought in the back of your head that's always there," Mark says. "But having someone like Roxy be a companion for you and reciprocate the love back to you, it takes your mind off those thoughts."

Someday Roxy will serve Marines injured in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. And don't call what Roxy does tricks. Mark says he and his partner have been teaching her skills.

"She can retrieve items really good. She's just learning to retrieve clothing items and put them in the laundry basket and put them in the washing machine. She's just now learning to mess with the light switch, turn it on and off."

Trainers from Carolina Canines visit the brig a few times a week to guide lessons and dole out homework assignments. Outside in the brig's fenced-in courtyard, trainer Vicky Wilcox shouts instructions to Marines dressed head-to-toe in their orange brig-issued jumpsuits.

"You wanna just tuck your leash in your pouch and use yourself and your little cookies to motivate your dog to stay with you."

Rick Hairston, president of Carolina Canines, says the program is a way for these Marines to atone for what they've done. And because they're able to make good use of their time behind bars, Hairston says he's noticed that these Marines are the only ones in the whole brig who smile.

"They've got a chance to do some things that nobody else is doing, and so they have a new leash on life, so to speak."

Eventually the dogs will be able to open refrigerators and complete bank transactions for their wounded owners. Those skills are hard to learn, so the dogs practice an easier exercise, a slow, careful walk through an obstacle course made of white plastic pipes.

And before they go back inside the brig for more training, the Marines lead all the dogs to the chain link fence surrounding the courtyard. Then, on command, it's business time.

"They're all in sync?" I ask.

"They're taught to go potty on command," Hairston explains.

"Not together at the same time."

"But that's what they were doing, right?"

"They were just given the command at the same time," Hairston says. "Thing is, you get ready to go on an airplane, you go to the bathroom, right? These dogs can't. So they have to totally eliminate before they get on an aircraft."

Once inside the brig, Roxy's trainer Mark puts her in a harness. Then a Marine in a wheelchair grabs the harness, and with a little encouragement, Roxy pulls him across the smooth brig floor. For her next lesson, Roxy learns how to pull a laundry basket.

Mark's face beams with pride as he watches Roxy practice. He says in a place where life can be drab and depressing, Roxy makes him feel alive.

"We messed up. But at least we can do something productive with our time while we're in here. And it's going to benefit a life of someone who really needs it."

Mark says Roxy might be the first to complete the program this summer. When he gets out of the brig in a few months, he says he wants to train service dogs for a living. Mark says he'll miss Roxy, but it's comforting to know she'll be helping a wounded Marine who needs her.

Do you have insight or expertise on this topic? Please e-mail us, we'd like to hear from you. news@whqr.org.

CIW PRISON DOG PROGRAM

GREYHOUNDS, INMATES HELP EACH OTHER

UNWANTED INMATES HELP UNWANTED DOGS

CANADIAN PRISON DOG PROGRAM

THERAPY DOG HELPING INMATES IN UTAH

PRISONERS TRAINING AND SAVING UNWANTED DOGS

PRISONERS HELPING OTHERS ~ TRAINING DOGS TO HELP THE HANDICAPPED

Unwanted Dogs and Unwanted People

Rosie the Golden Retriever mix was abused, hit with sticks and abandoned. A Golden Retriever rescue in South Carolina rescued her. Sr Pauline took her out of the Shelter and had a friend bring her to Washington DC. Sr Pauline drove to Washington and picked her up, then drove her to Maine.

Rosie stayed in Maine a few months, then left for New Hampshire where she went into a foster home, then went to the New Hampshire State Prison for men where an inmate trained Rosie to do many things. Still she had a hard time because of all the difficulties in her life but the inmates saw she had potential.

When Rosie was finished her training, there wasn't the possibility to place Rosie in a home for the disabled because no program was in place, so three women flew from Wisconsin to New Hampshire to pick up Rosie and a dog named Joey and flew Rosie and Joey to Wisconsin where they stayed several weeks until a place was ready for them to go to the State Prison for Women in Southern California where they were entered a women's prison for more training.Rosie didn't stay there long and she then came out of the prison and was placed with a disabled girl who really needed Rosie in her life. Rosie now has a home forever.

This is a picture of Rosie and her partner Whitney at their graduation.If we could only do the same for people who are unwanted ... that we can reach out to them no matter how long it takes and try and help them recover from their own difficult lives... then perhaps we can really make a difference and they will not suffer for all their life that they were unwanted.

HELPING PRISONERS

DEATH ROW ANGOLA ~ LOUSIANA STATE PRISON

Dwight Illinois Correctional Center for Women

Cumberland Federal Prison for men ~ Maryland

California Institution for Women

Our society seems to want to throw the key away to those who have committed crimes. They want them either dead or to spend the rest of their life in prison for the pain and suffering they have caused.

When can we forgive those who harm us? Even if they never get out of prison, they still can do things inside to make this a better world?
Who knows what they went through in their life to become as they are.

It doesn’t take away the evilness of their crime to forgive. They have to become responsible for what they have done. Is this possible?

In these pictures, the inmates don’t have “pets” in prison. They have working dogs that they are training to give to a disabled person or given to a police agency as a potential police dog. They are learning how to groom so once they are out of prison, it is a job skill they can use. They are also learning life skills.. how to take care of something that depends on them.

If we can teach others the importance of giving back something to our society, then it helps to make this a better world, one person at a time. To forgive isn’t easy to do but it is not impossible.

If St Paul could go out and persecute the Christians and God forgave him.. then we can do the same. Our life is a gift from God and no one has the right to take it away, either through crime or punishment.