Ep 4. Paws In Prison

In season 1 episode 4 of That Animal Rescue Show, titled "Paws In Prison," viewers are taken inside a unique program where incarcerated individuals are given the opportunity to train and care for rescue dogs.

The episode begins with a visit to the Arizona State Prison Complex in Florence, where we meet several inmates participating in the Pawsitive Prison Program. The program partners with the animal rescue group, Saving Paws, to rescue dogs from overcrowded shelters and bring them to the prison for training and rehabilitation.

The inmates are trained by a professional dog trainer, who teaches them how to modify unwanted behaviors in the dogs, such as jumping and pulling on the leash. They also learn basic obedience commands and how to use positive reinforcement techniques to reward good behavior.

We are introduced to several dogs and their handlers, including Elroy, a high-energy pitbull mix, and his handler, an inmate named Mike. Viewers get a sense of the strong bond that forms between the dogs and their handlers, as well as the positive impact the program is having on the inmates.

The episode also delves into the history of the Pawsitive Prison Program, which was created in 2003 by a woman named Shelley Bookspan. Bookspan had previously worked with rescue animals and saw the potential for a program that could benefit both dogs and inmates.

Throughout the episode, we learn about the challenges of running a program inside a prison, including limited resources and strict regulations. However, we also see the rewards of the program, including reduced recidivism rates among inmates who participate.

The episode also features interviews with several volunteers and staff members involved in the program, as well as insights from experts in the field of animal-assisted therapy.

Overall, "Paws In Prison" is a heartwarming and inspiring look at the power of animal rescue and rehabilitation programs, and the positive impact they can have on both animals and humans alike.