The men who train our dogs are in prison and we are fortunate enough to have been selected as a canine rescue organization to allow our dogs to be trained by these inmates.
For many years now, these "dog handlers" have trained hundreds and hundreds of dogs. Some dogs are from dog pounds and are going through the training program to become more adoptable. Some dogs are from rescue groups like ours. Other groups within the prison program train dogs to work for the handicapped and become service dogs.
The dogs spend approximately 6 weeks in the cell dog program. While in training, they are socialized with other dogs, and the inmates of the facility. The dogs are taught basic manners at first, such as, housebreaking and crate training. They learn commands, such as sit, down, come and stay. Some dogs have the ability to learn more than others during their stay in the program, and they may learn tricks, such as shake, high five, and "bang you're dead". These handlers have trained deaf dogs, blind dogs and many other dogs with special needs.
The training program is very structured, and the daily schedule for dogs and inmates is very regimented. The dogs eat at the same time each day, they are exercised at the same time each day. They all train with other dogs in the program are socialized with other dogs in the unit, and other inmates in the prison. During this program, health issues and behavior issues are identified, and when possible, behavior issues are modified. Rescue volunteers visit each dog and dog handler weekly, and work with training issues and answer questions that the handlers might have. Updates are received on each dogs progress and it is determined how much longer the dogs need to stay, and when they are ready to move on to their new homes.
As you can imagine, this program is not only wonderful for the dogs, it gives them a chance at a home that they otherwise may not have been suited for, and it gives so much back to the handlers and the other inmates in the facility.
Thank you for taking the time to read about the cell dog program. Without this program, our ability to save lives and place dogs in new homes would not be as successful. Thank you to all of our handlers for doing such a fantastic job with these dogs!
