Inmates get a new “leash” on life

Some Pender County prison inmates are giving dogs a new leash on life. For the next eight weeks, inmates will train stray dogs that have been rescued by a local animal shelter.

Program officials say this gives prisoners something to do and a feeling of accomplishment.

Seven prison inmates are embarking on a new program at Pender County Correctional Institution. It is called New Leash on Life and it is a dog training program for rescued pooches.

Jeffery Lane, an inmate, said “It feels awesome. This is my first time participating in this program, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Lane is serving the remainder of his twenty year prison sentence in Pender County. He is excited about spending time with his new K-9 friend, Delta. “This is important because we’re giving these dogs a second chance to enjoy life in spite of the abuse that was brought upon them.”

Five dogs will stay at the prison throughout the eight week course. From sun up to sun down prisoners will teach dogs basic house training skills. The inmates will get help from volunteers from Monty’s Home, a pet rehabilitation facility.

“These five dogs will get a lot of attention and they will get the correct way to do everything. The correct way to crate train them, the obedience training and potty training and all of the things needed to be a good family pet.” said Barbara Raab of Monty’s Home.

Program leaders say six-hundred dogs across the state have gone through the program. 95 percent of them are adopted once the training is complete.

Bobby Middleton is also an inmate. He said, “This program and this opportunity gives me a chance to experience some personal growth, practice some responsibility and show some unconditional love.”

Out of the 78 prisons in North Carolina, 18 of them take part in the New Leash on Life program. Five other prisons are considering adding it.