Service Dog Training in Prison

     Prisoners are often known to hate themselves- hopeless, unhappy and haunted by shame and embarrassment. It is clear that an action plan must be executed to aid the mentally oppressed. Many prisons have adopted service dog training programs in order to act as therapy for their inmates.  One of many prison dog training programs, "Canine Companions for Independence" found particular success with an inmate, Sharon. Here follows an excerpt from the "Canine Companions for Independence" website. 

 While speaking at a CCI graduation ceremony after her release, Sharon said, “The puppies are our whole existence inside, although we have jobs and other activities, our constant companions come first.” She went on to explain how being a puppy raiser gave her purpose, and transformed her life. She shared, “I always had something to look forward to each and every day. Being a puppy raiser was a self-esteem builder for me and kept me from becoming hard hearted. I learned discipline, how to put something ahead of myself, and finally, I took responsibility for my actions.”

Click here to view the CCI website.

     I felt it was necessary to include this portion from the "Canine Companions for Independence" website, because it stood out to me. It's direct evidence of success from an inmate that went through a service dog training program. Something as simple as a puppy had the ability to completely turn around a woman's life. If that isn't heart warming, then I don't know what is!