An Overview of Prison Dog Programs in Australia

What is it about?

A survey of animal welfare agencies and corrections departments across Australia was conducted to compile a nationwide profile of prison dog programs, wherein inmates train dogs while learning skills to assist their rehabilitation. Most programs operating in 23 prisons in six Australian states were a community service design administered by animal welfare organizations. Inmates benefit through opportunities to train the dogs, give back to society, gain a sense of responsibility, improve self-confidence and social skills, and acquire vocational qualifications to improve job opportunities post-release. Barriers identified included insufficient funding, limited training opportunities for the dogs, and some staff resistance.

Featured Image

Photo by Joe Caione on Unsplash

Photo by Joe Caione on Unsplash

Why is it important?

In its entirety, the present study presents the only known demographic data of PDPs currently operating in Australia and is one of the few studies that incorporate both quantitative and qualitative research designs.