Central Point, Oregon – Dogs for Better Lives (DBL) is thrilled to announce the successful placement of Alder, the first dog to graduate from our Prison Puppy Raising Program, with a deserving Facility Dog Client in California. Alder’s journey with DBL has led him to his life-changing role as a Facility Dog – placed with Meaghan, a dedicated 7th-8th grade teacher working with moderately to severely disabled students.
Alder’s placement marks a significant milestone for DBL’s innovative Prison Puppy Raising Program, launched in partnership with Ross Correctional Institution in Ohio. This program allows incarcerated handlers to serve as Puppy Raisers, providing them with a sense of purpose while preparing DBL Program Puppies for their future roles as Service Dogs.
Facility Dog Alder’s Journey
Alder was donated to DBL in March 2023 from Guiding Eyes for the Blind and began his foundational training with handlers at Ross Correctional Institution shortly thereafter. Under the guidance of the dedicated handlers, Alder developed the critical skills and temperament needed for his role as a Facility Dog.
In January 2024, Alder continued his training at DBL’s Northeast Region (NER) Campus, refining his abilities to assist in an educational environment. Finally, in June 2024, he graduated from DBL’s Facility Dog program and was placed with Meaghan, where he has already begun making a profound impact.
Meaghan’s Classroom Transformation
Meaghan, who teaches middle school students with moderate to severe disabilities, has seen firsthand the positive influence that Facility Dogs have on her students.
“Alder will set the tone for the entire classroom,” says Meaghan.
“He’ll break the ice, act as a social bridge, and help students transition between classrooms with ease. His presence has been incredibly beneficial to everyone he has met so far, especially those who have experienced trauma. Students are motivated by the opportunity to earn snuggle time or a walk with Alder, and they’ve made remarkable progress in speech, self-care, and occupational therapy through their interactions with him.”
The impact of on the lives of the Puppy Raisers
Alder with his Puppy Raisers at Ross Correctional Institution
The impact of raising Alder has been equally transformative for his handlers at Ross Correctional Institution. “The DBL program gives the incarcerated individual a chance to take on a large responsibility by providing care and training to dogs for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” said Warden Cool of Ross Correctional Institution.
“Their success in this program goes farther than the prison fences. There is someone somewhere in the world depending on them to train their animals to make a livable difference in a person’s life,” they added.
“Lastly incarcerated adults are learning life skills in giving back, compassion, and earnable income when they are released,” said Warden Cool of Ross Correctional Institution.”
Looking Forward
DBL is proud to celebrate Alder’s success and is committed to expanding the Prison Puppy Raising Program to impact more lives. This program not only provides valuable training for future Service Dogs but also offers inmates a meaningful way to contribute to society.
Two more graduates from the Prison Puppy Raising Program, Baxter and Brady, will be placed with their clients later this month – marking an additional milestone for the program.
For more information about the Prison Puppy Raising Program and other DBL initiatives, please visit dogsforbetterlives.org/prison-puppy-raising/
