A.D.O.P.T. is partnered with the Ohio Department of Corrections prison dog program at the Correctional Reception Center (CRC) in Orient, Ohio. Homeless dogs are paired with an inmate canine handler who lives with the animal 24 hours a day. While in the program, the dogs learn canine manners, how to obey basic commands (i.e. sit, stay, down, come), and are socialized with multiple people in a variety of situations. There is no time limit on how long a dog can remain in the program, but the longer they remain the more consistent they become with their learned behaviors. This program is therapeutic in so many ways, it allows the inmates to care for another life and gives these dogs shelter, time, and the second chance that they otherwise would not have had.
Once an application is approved for a CRC dog, a home visit will be done without the dog present. After the home visit, the prospective adopter will get in touch with the CRC liaison to set up a meet and greet with the dog at the Correctional Reception Center. Visitation must take place during the week (Monday through Friday) between the hours of 8:30 am and 2:30 pm. All family members in the adoptive home must be present for the meeting of the dog.
It is important to keep in mind that every dog is different. These animals have often come from abusive or neglectful backgrounds and will have certain things that may trigger their fears. The handlers work hard to help each animal overcome their past. When they enter into a new home, some will settle in more quickly than others. Some will show their initial stress by being hyperactive and others will shut down and seem reserved. It is critical to give the dog a safe place where they can retreat and also to keep a consistent routine. Time, patience, love, and understanding along with continued socialization and training will help you build a lifelong relationship with your new family member.
Check out the article below for more information on canine-inmate programs:
www.theblaze.com/stories/2015/08/21/the-heart-of-america-dogs-behind-bars
Correctional Reception Center location:
11271 State Route 762
Orient, OH 43146
www.drc.ohio.gov/public/crc.htm
From Columbus:
Take I-71 South to Orient exit (U.S. Route 62).
Turn South (left) and follow signs or continue South on U.S. Route 62 to S.R. 762.
Turn East (left) on S.R. 762 to Orient Complex.