Pawsitive Solutions: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Prisoners and Canines

• In Event: Correctional Based Dog and Mentoring Programs

Abstract

With the increasing prison population and reoffending rates at almost 50%, it is clear that current initiatives that aim to reform offenders are ineffective. Prison-based dog programs have been introduced as they can challenge and change offending behavior and reduce the likelihood of reoffending. However, there is limited research on current programs and their impact on prisoners, particularly in Australia. This paper reports on a survey of Department of Corrections and individuals from animal welfare agencies with experience in prison-based dog programs conducted to compile a national demographic overview of prison-based dog programs in Australia, and examine the impact these programs have on prisoner rehabilitation.

Author

• Lauren Michelle Humby, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia