A Dog Photographer’s Experience of Shelter Dogs in Training In A Maximum Security

We recently found an interesting story on the web, posted by a dog photographer who had to be in North Kern State Prison on an invitation made by the Pawsitive Change Program. We thought of sharing this experience with you.

Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change program connects soon-to-be-euthanized dogs with California State Federal prison inmates. The goal is to reduce reoffending by teaching inmates job skills while saving dogs’ lives. These men work together in a team to give these dogs a better chance of being adopted.

The photographer was instantly fascinated by the gentleness and attentiveness of these men with all these dogs, especially with more nervous dogs. The team was keen to learn from the program trainer. The senior men were helping new trainers by telling them all about dog training, behavior, and body language. Everyone was thrilled to be around dogs.

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After arriving through the security gates of North Kern State Prison yard

Beginning of the dogs’ walk

I Photographed Shelter Dogs In Training In A Maximum Security Prison

Before being released to work on dog training, he noticed that many men who had gone through this program had started their own businesses after release. He had heard stories of people who had entirely relocated to confirm they were out of bad influences, eager to begin fresh and flourish. A lot of men had never been given an opportunity before or had any hopes for the future. Therefore, this opportunity gives them hope to go ahead. The photographer had heard a lot of stories. Those included that one of them had started a program to train at-risk youth on how to teach dogs to walk properly and do exercise.

Receiving proper training from the Pawsitive Change program motivated him to give back, and he had the knowledge and skills to do dog training.

The dogs were walked slowly in circles inside for decompression, then sat while the Head trainer delivered a lecture to the men.

Before the dogs arrive, the men undergo training given by the Head of the program trainer. Once the dogs are in the prison, they receive weekly training from the trainer. These individuals have dedicated considerable effort to qualify for the program and are genuinely keen on learning dog-related skills. The men are organized into teams of three. They often join with teammates who have acquired years of experience in this program, specializing in dog training. These teams exchange knowledge and split responsibilities for the dogs’ care and education. All the dogs, evaluated by Marleys’ Mutts staff, have been rescued from shelters. Through this practice, the men have gained vast knowledge in saving thousands of dogs.

Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change pairs soon-to-be-euthanized dogs with inmates in California State/Federal Prisons and juvenile facilities.

Rescue experts associated with Marley’s Mutts save the dogs from shelters. They have expertise in assessing animals within a shelter environment and conducting comprehensive behavioral evaluations to determine their suitability for the program. They Highlight the qualities such as temperament, behavior, sociability, and trainability. After passing a vet check, the dogs are joined by inmates selected through a screening process. This process will be based on evaluating their dedication, conduct, and capability to engage and train the dogs effectively.

Using positive reinforcement techniques, these inmates cover the basic training and socialization aspects while addressing any specific concerns exhibited by the dogs. These individuals receive ongoing support and guidance from qualified trainers throughout the program. By the program’s conclusion, the dogs are prepared for adoption into loving homes!

Their end goal is to reduce inmate recidivism by providing them with vocational training to learn a viable skill while simultaneously saving dogs’ lives.

The photographer was of the view that many of the men and dogs have never experienced unconditional love before and have had limited interaction beyond their immediate circles. Taking care of the dogs teaches them empathy and responsibility and notably contributes to reducing their stress levels and overall emotional well-being. Interacting with the dogs, these individuals gather essential lessons in kindness, communication, and patience—valuable qualities that can be extended when interacting with others. This process enables them to promote focus, patience, and the ability to resolve conflicts in a positive manner. This benefit positively impacts the men and the dogs, who learn what a healthy, affectionate, and positive human relationship requires. Both parties develop trust and enhance their self-esteem in a positive manner. Most probably, this may be the first loving relationship for both the men and the dogs involved.

These men work in teams and learn to cooperate to ensure these dogs have a good chance at adoption.

Immediately, there is a stigma attached to individuals imprisoned. Society often hastens to dismiss both “bad people” and “problematic dogs,” yet each of them is eligible for a second opportunity. This program serves as a great platform to raise awareness about various issues, whether the overcrowding of animal shelters or the challenges inmates face. By promoting greater awareness of the program, adoption of graduated dogs, and contributions through donations, society can help these dogs and men secure another chance to contribute positively to the community.

These dogs had just been saved from high-kill shelters in the area, some even on that very day.

All men in the program were eager to learn from the trainer, with experienced participants ready to help newcomers understand dog training, behavior, and body language.