“Pawsitive Training Program at Shelby County Women’s Prison Gives Inmates and Shelter Dogs a Second Chance”

The Shelby County Division of Corrections at Shelby Farms recently concluded a groundbreaking pilot program that has captured the hearts of many. This unique initiative, known as the Pawsitive Training Program, aims to not only enhance the lives of shelter dogs but also provide valuable skills and opportunities for inmates at the women’s prison.

In collaboration with the Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County, the program focuses on dog training by inmates, with the goal of increasing the adoptability of shelter dogs. According to Ellen Zahariadis, the executive director of the Humane Society, trained dogs have a higher chance of being adopted as they transition more smoothly into their new homes.

Selected through a rigorous interview process, six inmates were paired with three Humane Society dogs – Bruno, Crab Rangoon, and Alfalfa – for a six-week training program. The inmates not only learned how to train the dogs but also gained valuable life skills such as time management and patience.

The Pawsitive Training Program, a partnership between the Humane Society, Shelby County Division of Corrections, and Allegiance Canine, has received praise for its positive impact on both the inmates and the dogs. Jacques Bonèy, the owner of Allegiance Canine, commended the inmates for their dedication and highlighted the therapeutic benefits of the program.

Inspired by a similar program in Massachusetts, the Pawsitive Training Program aims to provide a sense of purpose for incarcerated individuals and equip them with valuable skills for their reentry into society. The program has already sparked interest among other inmates, demonstrating its potential for expansion and impact.

As the first cohort of the program prepares to graduate, the success of the pilot program is evident with one of the dogs, Bruno, already finding a forever home. With plans to continue and expand the program, administrators are hopeful that more inmates and dogs will benefit from this innovative initiative.

The Pawsitive Training Program not only offers a second chance for shelter dogs but also provides a transformative experience for inmates, paving the way for a brighter future for both.