Pet therapy program helps inmates

The program goes by the name "New Leash on Life," and — puns aside — it's assisting inmates like those at the female correctional centre in Clarenville.

Prisons across the province are reporting a remarkable difference in the attitudes of inmates thanks to the program, which partners inmates with dogs from the SPCA. 

"[They] need to have somebody to communicate with, to build trust again, to build bonds and relationships, and so do animals — especially if they were abused," said Kelly Rowsell, assistant superintendent of the Clarenville facility.

Workers at the jail say inmates are learning patience, respect and understanding through their work with the dogs.  

At the Clarenville SPCA, worker Jewel Pelley says there's another benefit — the dogs are are happier because they receive so much one-on-one attention.

"We've seen dogs that have gone up there that ... within a matter of a week the change in their personalities is unbelievable," Pelley said.

Nearly 40 dogs have now been adopted through the program across the province.