Since July 2022, the Avenal State Prison (ASP) Community Resource Office has partnered with Paws Estate Inc., a nonprofit rescue for strays and surrendered dogs.
The organization created a six-week dog obedience program, allowing ASP staff and loved ones to adopt dogs after each six-week cycle.
With each cycle, five dogs are selected by Community Resource Office staff for 10 pre-selected Facility B trainers.
The incarcerated trainers crate-train and teach the dogs basic commands such as sit, down and stay. They also teach the dogs personalized commands suggested by adoptees.
Because of this program, 12 dogs have been placed in loving homes.
“We are so grateful ASP has allowed us to bring this program to the prison. It is helping more than you’ll ever know,” said Gilbert and Lana Brito, who run the organization.
The trainers said working with the Community Resource Office and Paws helps their rehabilitation and ability to have compassion for one another.
By Darrienn Sanders, SSA, CRM Office
Submitted by Lt. James Campbell
Read more rehabilitation stories.