Friends of the Four-Legged Variety
SCCC Dog Program Participants
I had mentioned in a previous post about the new dog program that has started here in Stafford Creek Corrections Center, but a few days ago I got the pleasure of going to the unit with the dogs and talking to a couple of the handlers. I was surprised to find that there are 8 dogs in the program, as I had only seen a couple come into the library. Also, as all of the dogs I had seen were adults I was surprised to meet Morgan, a puppy. Now Morgan seems to be learning his new tricks with the speed of the young, while some of the older dogs are moving at a slower pace. However, all of the dogs seem to be happy and well taken care of by the inmates. This is a good thing to see, as many of the dogs coming into the program were getting ready to be terminated at the shelters. Some had been abused and many had behavior problems. They have been given a second chance by the program, the inmates and the dogs.
The program requires that the inmates complete training on how to behave around the dogs and the training teaches techniques to socialize the dogs. However, I have found that there has been an increase in dog books being checked out by the inmates. Many are looking for books on the specific breeds, so that they get an idea of what to expect, but also the training books have become a hot item. We have always had dog books and they are even checked out by the inmates on a regular basis, but now with the dog program the demand has gotten even higher. As the program becomes more successful I know that I will be buying more books on the training of dogs and the different breeds.
As of yet only one dog has left the program, but tomorrow is graduation day and all but the two youngest ones will be going to their new homes. The dogs can be found at PAWfect CONnections. This organization has partnered with Stafford Creek Corrections and local animal shelters to bring the program to the inmates and to find good homes for the dogs.
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