The Transformative Power of the Prison Puppy Program

Incarceration is often defined by loss—the loss of freedom, autonomy, connection, and purpose. But in certain prisons, programs exist that challenge this stark reality, offering opportunities for growth, healing, and service. One such program is the American VetDogs Prison Puppy Program, which allows incarcerated individuals to raise and train service dogs that will eventually assist veterans and first responders. My son, Ben, is part of this program, and through his experience, I have come to appreciate the profound impact these dogs have on the men who train them, as well as the broader prison community.

How the Program Works

Inmates who wish to participate in the program must apply and meet strict criteria, including a clean disciplinary record and a reputation for responsibility and good behavior. Once accepted, they can become either main handlers or backup handlers. The main handlers receive Labrador Retriever puppies when they are just eight weeks old. These puppies live with their assigned handlers 24/7, except on weekends when they go to foster homes to experience different environments. Every Monday, all the handlers and puppies come together for structured dog training sessions, learning essential skills that will prepare the puppies for their future roles as service dogs.

Ben spent about a year as a backup handler before receiving his own puppy, Ritt, three months ago. In that short time, Ritt has already made a deep impact on Ben’s daily life, bringing companionship, responsibility, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Ben’s Perspective: Finding Joy and Purpose Through Training

Ben recently shared his thoughts on the program, and his words capture the profound effect these dogs have on their handlers and the prison environment as a whole:

Working with dogs in prison creates a consistent inlet of joy, fun, and purpose. Those moments of joy and reprieve extend to guys who aren’t in the dog program too, as the puppies offer their friendly affection to pretty much everyone equally. For me, the unconditional love, respect, trust, and good work ethic the puppies show every day cuts the tension of prison and challenges all the cold presumptions imprisonment thrusts upon the imprisoned. 

Training service dogs in prison gives inmates a purpose greater than themselves and a sense of connection and dignity that can transcend much of the toxicity of incarceration. The connection between dog and handler in particular speaks to the deep intrinsic value found in each human—that there is an essence worthy of trust and love and respect in every person, even the criminal and the convict. 

Dogs don’t see us for our pasts—they see us for who we are, in this very moment, and we as humans would do well to learn from their canine wisdom.”

A Call for More Programs Like This

Prison programs that provide opportunities for responsibility, learning, and service are essential. They remind us that every person has value and is worthy of love, compassion, and redemption. I am grateful for programs like the American VetDogs Prison Puppy Program at Old Colony Correctional Center, which not only benefit the incarcerated individuals who train these incredible dogs but also contribute positively to society by providing life-changing service animals to those in need.

Programs like this should not be the exception—they should be the standard. Every prison should offer meaningful opportunities for growth, connection, and rehabilitation, because when we invest in the dignity and potential of incarcerated individuals, we create a better society for all.

To those who support prison programs and believe in second chances—thank you. And to Ben and Ritt—keep learning from each other, growing together, and showing the world that transformation is always possible.

By Laura and Ben Walsh