I keep seeing service dog places that promote their prison puppy raising program as if it was unique, the core element of their organization, and the biggest reason for you to support them. Some even make claims that leave me shaking my head, because I have no idea what they’re basing those claims on. For example, I just saw a story only a few days ago about a small organization in the Midwest that said theirs was “one of just three programs in the nation where a canine connection is made behind bars.”
The reality is that most, if not all, of the top ADI-accredited service dog organizations in the U.S. have very active prison puppy raising programs and have had them for many years.
In fact, I can’t think of any major organization that DOESN’T have a program with inmates training puppies – there probably is one, but it’d be the exception. Here are just a few that I’m aware of:
- Canine Companions for Independence: 12 prison puppy raising programs in 9 states (AL, CA, CO, FL, MS, MT, OH, OR, WA); started in 1995.
- NEADS: 14 prison partnerships in 4 states (CT, MA, RI, VT); started in 1998.
- Canine Partners for Life: 5 prison programs in 2 states (MD, PA); started in 2000.
- KSDS: Pooches & Pals program at the Topeka Correctional Facility, KS; started in 1998.
- Saint Francis Service Dogs: Program at Bland Correctional Center in VA; started in 2000.
Don’t get me wrong – I think these programs are tremendous. But you sure don’t need to pick an organization based on it having a prison puppy raising program, nor should you.
And, to be honest, I have to wonder about any place that makes that kinda pitch, especially if it involves dogs going to veterans, which also isn’t unique. I know everybody’s looking for an angle to get your attention and stand out from the crowd, but having a prison puppy raising program doesn’t make you special – sorry.
Please just keep that in mind whenever you see one of these stories. As I have said repeatedly, there are many great assistance dog organizations with long histories out there, and every one of them could use your support. Evaluate the total program – ideally, based on the guidelines I’ve given you – and make your decisions based on that evaluation.
I'm very active with Canine Companions for Independence as a volunteer, to include being a past member of the Veterans Task Force and puppy raiser. Retired US Air Force Chief Master Sergeant with my last assignments at the Air Force Academy as the Fourth Group Sergeant Major and Dean of Faculty Superintendent.
Jul 23, 2009 @ 15:03:29
It’s true there are many prison programs for raising service dogs. An service dog organization advertising that they are unique in this way is not really the truth, but it is a great thing to have.
I raise for NEADS, in their prison puppy program. It is really great for both prisoner and dog. Of course, all of these orgs. aren’t really thinking of the prisoner’s well-being, they think more about their dogs, (understandably) but it turns out really well for both of them. The dogs get constant training, and the prisoners get a feeling of being needed and they learn how to love.
No, these programs are not unique but still it is a great attribute to a Service Dog program. It’s a great idea, and works really well.
P.S. I like your blog!!!