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Related: About this forumProgram gives Ark. dogs, prisoners a second chance
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TUCKER, Ark. (AP) Arkansas has a number of dogs behind bars, but they're not in the pound.
They're part of a program called Paws in Prison that pairs pooches with prisoners for obedience training.
Arkansas Department of Correction spokeswoman Shea Wilson says some of the dogs in the program were at risk of being euthanized in animal shelters. Meanwhile, some of the inmates who train the dogs are serving life sentences.
Wilson says the program is about second chances for both the dogs and the inmates.
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http://news.yahoo.com/program-gives-ark-dogs-prisoners-second-chance-071735980.html
hamsterjill
(15,224 posts)This program is starting to take shape in several prisons across the country, and I think it's a win/win situation. It's got to be good for the inmates - giving them something to do, something to care about, and something that will reaffirm their self worth.
The dogs obviously benefit. My only hope would be that something safe could be devised so that the prisoner/trainers might be able to follow their charge's progress down the line when adopted and placed, etc. I'm not sure that potential adoptors would be comfortable doing that, but if a safe means could be put in place whereby they could correspond with the prisoner (perhaps through the rescue group), I think that would be good for the prisoners. It's got to be sad for them when it's time to let their dog go...
alsame
(7,784 posts)I agree it's good for the inmate and the dogs.
I think correspondence (and pictures!) between the new family and the inmate is a good idea too
Auntie Bush
(17,528 posts)I hope all prisons in the country can adopt this program. The inmates learn compassion, empathy, love, self esteem, worthiness. But, it must be depressing and lonely when his dog moves on. Having a dog can also be a reward for good cooperative behavior. But they should keep an eye on the dog to make sure it isn't being abused.
For the dog...this sure beats living in a pound and a more likelihood of being adopted.