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One of the only programs of its type in the region, the Puppy Prison Program is housed at the Kentucky Correctional Institution for Women (KCIW). The women from the prison who apply to particpate in the program must be a part of the prisons' honor program. Currently, there are 12 women actively enrolled in the Paws with Purpose program. The women receive training from PWP Volunteers who visit during the week. It is the responsibility of the women, once comfortable with the training and caretaking skills of the puppies and young dogs, to hold their own group training classes, and to fully care for the animals; these dogs stay at the prison throughout the week and will work one-on-one with the women.
On Fridays, the puppies leave the prison for the weekend with their volunteer weekend trainers as a supplement to what they learn during the week. This change of environment allows the puppies exposure to cars, shopping, restaurants, movies, the grocery store, and many other important situations that a working service dog would encounter out in public.
The Puppy Prison Program gives the inmates the opportunity to learn job skills that will help them once they are released from prison. It also gives them the chance to give back to society.
If you are interested in volunteering with the KCIW Puppy Prison Program or learning more, we would love to hear from you. |
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