Inmate Dog Training Programs Turn Aggressive Dogs Into Comfort Animals

Did you know that you can save a dog's life by sending them to prison?

Shelters and animal control facilities at capacity are required by law to make room for incoming animals. Unfortunately, this means that aggressive or behaviorally-challenged dogs are the first to go. This is because they are dangerous to handle and difficult to find owners for. But now, many of these dogs qualify for inmate dog training programs. Instead of being euthanized, these dogs are taken to prisons. Inmates work with the dogs to train them and provide an opportunity for a better future as household pets and comfort animals. Some even become service dogs!

Training Service Dogs and Comfort Animals

Qualifying canines are paired with eligible inmates to begin training. The inmates work alongside trainers from the program and learn how to train their new canine companion to be a service dog. Dogs who don’t hit the mark to be service animals are trained in obedience to become comfort animals or emotional support animals. All dogs who complete the program are able to live out the rest of their dog days within their forever home.

Program specifics can vary based on the company and correctional institute. Most work by following a rigorous curriculum for both the dogs and the inmates over the course of a few months. Many follow the guidelines to pass the Canine Good Citizen Test, which is a test created to measure the 10 skills a dog should possess according to the AKC.

Not Just For The Dogs

There are two main purposes to an inmate dog training program: to save the dog's life and the inmate's life. Combining the two has proven to be a success in rehabilitation. Canines and inmates are able to acquire the training needed to succeed outside of prison walls. Inmates can even receive vocational training. They can certify in dog training and grooming that provides career opportunities once released. Many go on to be animal handlers for therapy dogs and comfort animals. Therapy dogs can be brought to schools, prisons, and nursing homes to reduce stress.

A Better Future For Man- And His Best Friend

The results from these programs are profound. Inmates have shown improved prosocial bonds, heightened empathy, patience, confidence, and overall mental wellness. The guards and staff at prisons also report an overall sense of calm and a boost in morale when dog training programs are in place. Statistically, there are fewer violent incidents and suicide attempts in participating prisons. Having an animal companion around is proven to increase your mental and physical health. In this case, it also helps to lower recidivism rates.

Prison programs have a higher chance of producing service dogs than most at-home volunteer trainers - at a fraction of the cost. Comfort animals produced by inmate training programs also have a higher success rate. Most emotional support animals require no training. Dogs from these programs are obedience-trained and ready for placement.