I volunteered with this organization for several years and was always impressed with the positive results shown in both the dogs being trained and the inmates training them. This program not only helps shelter dogs that are retrained to become service dogs but is also very beneficial to the inmates in the program as they too have to meet and uphold certain standards to remain in the program. This program helps so many to become a positive addition to society both in prison and once released. Plus the benefits of providing a trained dog to those who need service dogs and for the dogs that don't make it as service dogs someone gets a well trained pet. Amazing program.
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I have been a volunteer with the PPPP for almost six years now and have to say it has been one of the best experiences I have ever had. It is an honor to be involved with a group that has such a positive influence both on unwanted dogs and people that have made a few mistakes but are trying to overcome their past. When I first heard about the program I was not enthusiastic about inmates having animals to play with while inprisoned, then I learned about all of the hard work that the inmates have to do to help the otherwise unwanted dogs to reach their full potential, either as a service dog or beloved pet. This program is such wonderful service for both the dogs, inmates and the folks that receive a service for no charge. It benefits everyone involoved, employees, volunteers and those who are inadvertently touched by the PPPP. The fundraisers are entertaining and very worthy of the time it takes to organize these events, I wholeheartedly endorse this program!
I have had five dogs over the past 34 years, and as much as I’ve hated to do it, there’ve been times when I’ve had to board them at a kennel. Of the six kennels that I’ve used over the years, the one operated by the Prison Pet Partnership Program is, hands down, the very best of them all. Here’s what makes PPPP’s kennel operation so special to me: a) Service: The offenders who run the day-to-day aspects of the kennel operation are both pet and pet owner friendly. When I’ve dropped off my dogs with the offenders, I know that I’ve left them in very caring hands. b) Cleanliness: The PPPP kennel is spotless and odor-free. I’ve visited some kennels where the odor was so foul that it’s made me gag. That’s not the case at the PPPP kennel. c) Affordability: I pay $28 a day to board my two pooches, which is just about one-half the rate that’s charged at other kennels in the area where I live. d) Security: Years ago, one of my dogs escaped from the kennel where it was being boarded. Although the dog was eventually recovered, I’ve been concerned ever since about my dogs running away. Getting loose at a kennel that’s operated inside a prison isn’t going to happen!