One Health

Prison Dog programs are nothing new, however, they are a valuable untapped resource for most shelters. The Missouri Puppies for Parole is an exemplary model to follow. No need to reinvent the wheel. Programs stand the test of time when they are formed through a trickle down manner.

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Heddie Leger
Intern
IAVSW
TN
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Heddie, thank you so much for bringing this program to our attention. I appreciated hearing about how the dogs' companionship promoted emotional vulnerability, created space for self-regulation, and fostered feelings of pride for the trainers when they are able to present/apply these skills with their loved ones. Yes, this is a great example of how animal welfare and human social service organizations can address the needs of both through partnership.

Missouri Department of Corrections: Puppies for Parole

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Kayla Anderson
Veterinary Social Worker
Program for Pet Health Equity
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-24-2024 12:19 AM
From: Heddie Leger
Subject: Prison Dog Programs

Prison Dog programs are nothing new, however, they are a valuable untapped resource for most shelters. The Missouri Puppies for Parole is an exemplary model to follow. No need to reinvent the wheel. Programs stand the test of time when they are formed through a trickle down manner.

------------------------------
Heddie Leger
Intern
IAVSW
TN
------------------------------

Hello Kayla.  Thank you for sharing this video. I watched it in tears again. I have seen these and hundreds of other people like these men come to my classes with arms folded and deadpan, dark expressions. Within weeks to months I watch them unfold into humane human beings through this program.  This program is so far reaching in so many intersectional I tied it is a mosaic of how people CAN change. Watching the process of healing and change in both canine and human is awe inspiring. The program is the conduit for possibilities for the future of many lives. 

------------------------------
Heddie Leger
Intern
IAVSW
TN
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-24-2024 09:12 AM
From: Kayla Anderson
Subject: Prison Dog Programs

Heddie, thank you so much for bringing this program to our attention. I appreciated hearing about how the dogs' companionship promoted emotional vulnerability, created space for self-regulation, and fostered feelings of pride for the trainers when they are able to present/apply these skills with their loved ones. Yes, this is a great example of how animal welfare and human social service organizations can address the needs of both through partnership.

Missouri Department of Corrections: Puppies for Parole

------------------------------
Kayla Anderson
Veterinary Social Worker
Program for Pet Health Equity

Original Message:
Sent: 09-24-2024 12:19 AM
From: Heddie Leger
Subject: Prison Dog Programs

Prison Dog programs are nothing new, however, they are a valuable untapped resource for most shelters. The Missouri Puppies for Parole is an exemplary model to follow. No need to reinvent the wheel. Programs stand the test of time when they are formed through a trickle down manner.

------------------------------
Heddie Leger
Intern
IAVSW
TN
------------------------------