Puppy program gives Kentucky inmates ‘purpose’

A partnership between a local nonprofit and the Kentucky Correctional Institution for Women is providing an important service for Kentuckians in need.

Paws with Purpose has been working with inmates at the Pewee Valley facility for more than 15 years to train assistance dogs for children and adults with disabilities. The Puppy Prison Program is a win-win, giving incarcerated women a chance to gain job skills, while readying dogs to become highly skilled companions and service animals.

Training can take up to two years and includes handling inside the prison walls throughout the week and external weekend trainers for real-world learning.

– Beverly Bartlett