San Quentin hosts third puppy graduation

May 5, 2026

San Quentin celebrated its third annual puppy graduation partnering with Canine Companions and pairing incarcerated individuals with service-dog prospects. Dozens of graduates, many of whom have gone on to serve in the community, returned to honor the milestone.

Warden C. Andes praised the program.

“I think the individuals that join the program are absolutely amazing. I’ve seen the growth. I couldn’t be prouder of you all. I’m mostly here just as a fan. Congratulations on the third annual graduation. I’ll see you next year.”

Incarcerated handler Cooper began issuing certificates to program participants. Speakers then discussed the progress of dogs who have graduated since last year.

San Quentin puppy graduation highlights

Puppy graduation at San Quentin group photo with visitors, staff and participants.

Susan Porteous, a Canine Companions spokeswoman, introduced Team Weber. She noted incarcerated person Max and Ricky accompanied Weber, who is “in the final stages of his certification.”

Porteous added Weber should be working as a therapy dog in the community within three weeks. To celebrate this joyous occasion previously incarcerated handler Ricardo Romero came back to show his support of the program.

A dog with Canine Companions, two training handlers and a person being helped by the service dog.

Team Ranger has completed therapy-dog certification and has begun therapy work on site at San Quentin, Porteous said. Handler Cody offered thanks on behalf of the team.

Jerome is currently in professional training at Canine Companions Santa Rosa campus — is nearly done and expects to meet a new partner soon, Porteous added.

The Class of 2026 is expected to begin professional training next month, starting with Team Nexus, which began in February and is “doing an awesome job,” Porteous said.

Team Congo’s recap highlighted a personnel change: Incarcerated handler Sergio was recently paroled so incarcerated participants Michael and Diego now represent the team. Several dogs remain at the facility and will begin professional training in May after spending a final month with outside co-raisers. Padias, handled by Cooper and Garret, was given a farewell with applause.

During the event, speakers emphasized the day’s energy.

Participants discuss program benefits

Canine Companions puppy graduation at San Quentin with a large group of people gathering a room.

“This day is extremely exciting,” said one participant.

KTVU Fox 2’s Henry Lee covered the event, praising San Quentin’s leadership and its potential to expand training for more dogs in the future. The program’s name, SQUIRES, was explained as an acronym for the San Quentin Utilization of Inmate Resource Experiences and Studies program, a juvenile-mentoring initiative designed to deter delinquency. One of the newest dogs with the name Squire will be quite popular.

Organizers announced a group photo featuring all graduates, handlers and Quentin, the newly appointed puppy photographed with Officer Dearmore.

A co-raiser reflected on the broader need for service dogs and volunteer support in the community. Dr. Berger, a San Quentin Senior Psychiatrist, recently adopted Bartlet, a facility dog. The trained dog will assist in healthcare services and activities for the incarcerated population.

Submitted by Lt. G. Berry

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