Pups partner with prison inmates on new program

Last published on 06 Sep 2019 

Inmates will teach new dogs new tricks when they’re given the responsibility to care and train rescue dogs from a Tamworth shelter.

The Heaven Can Wait Animal Shelter, in northern NSW, is providing older pups to Tamworth Correctional Centre where the inmates will care, train and socialise the dogs, so they can be more easily adopted.

Tamworth Governor Bill Fittler said the inmates learn new skills while being given the responsibility of caring for the dogs and learning canine-training techniques.

“The program provides the inmates the opportunity to develop animal handing abilities and pro-social skills,” Mr Fittler said.

“Nurturing animals has a very calming effect on humans and that will have a positive impact on the inmates and their behaviour.

“The program is of benefit to both the shelter and the inmates.”

Inmates and Corrective Services Industries overseer staff also assisted in constructing a small block of kennels to house the dogs within the minimum-security area.

So far, two pups have begun the six-week training course at the centre, before their temperament, health and sociability can be assessed prior to being placed up for adoption.