Fun

Dog Behind Bars Gives Inmates Second Chance At Childhood

Written by: Nicole Zalat

April 7, 2015

Programs that pair dogs with inmates have proven successful in the past, and a New York City jail is trying it out in an attempt to cut down on gang-related behavior.

Rikers Island’s longtime reputation for violence is now being challenged by an adorable black Lab named Ace, a shelter pup who will be staying in the jail for nine weeks until being put up for adoption. 15 teen inmates have been chosen for a program that will hopefully keep them busy as they train and care for Ace.

ace lab jail

Part of a plan to discourage violent behavior, Ace lives in the jail, going for walks four times a day and earning treats. In the three weeks he has been at Rikers, there has not been an attack in the unit Ace calls home.

ace_the_labFT

“The dogs have the ability to break through any nonsense. These kids become kids again. They are not in the gang mentality,” said Liz Keller of Rescue Dogs Rescue Soldiers, a program that brings pups to the jail every Wednesday for visits with inmates.

ace lab correctional

Things are looking great so far for Ace and his Rikers pals, and hopefully this will be the start of a bigger initiative that gives hope to shelter pups and the humans who benefit from spending time with them.

h/t to New York Daily News
Featured image via New York Daily News

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Written by: Nicole Zalat

April 7, 2015

Nutritionist-crafted food for your dog's breed or mix.

Recipes designed for dogs' individuality

LEARN MORE

INNOVATIVE DOG STUFF, EVERY MONTH.

A themed collection of BARK-designed toys, treats, and chews.

INNOVATIVE DOG STUFF, EVERY MONTH.

A themed collection of BARK-designed toys, treats, and chews.