New Mexico inmates training hard-to-adopt dogs: a win-win for both dogs and inmates

A partnership between a no-kill animal shelter and the Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility gives hard-to-adopt dogs a better chance at finding homes.

Inmates help by training and socializing the dogs, making them more adoptable. In return, the program teaches the inmates valuable skills like empathy and rule-following, benefiting both the dogs and the inmates involved.

At Las Cruces prison, eight inmates take care of four dogs in a special program. Their dedication led them to organize a fundraiser to support the program’s costs.

Diana Bell from Deming Animal Guardians shared that hiring a dog trainer was a major expense for the small charity.

Despite this, they continued, seeing the benefits for the hard-to-adopt dogs and the inmates. Unexpectedly, the inmates also contributed by raising money and giving a check.

Inmates in the dog training program, P.A.W.S. (Prisoners and Animals Working Toward Success), raised $350 by selling “toiletry kits” they created with supplies purchased from Sam’s Club.

Many inmates supported the fundraiser because they enjoyed seeing the dogs on the prison grounds.

The program also helps the hard-to-adopt dogs learn key boundaries, like staying off furniture, and basic commands such as “stay” and “fetch.”

Inmates receive weekly training in grooming, dog first aid, and potty training from a professional, with $350 covering two weeks of these visits.

Throughout the week, the inmates fully engage with the dogs, focusing on these skills, and go outside four times daily for bathroom breaks, playtime, and command practice.

“I am changed by this experience,” wrote one of the inmates named Antoinetti, aka ‘Coolie’, in a letter. “I believe these men will go home more prepared for the world by finally owning up to being responsible, rather than careless, with another life.”

He also noted that the dogs are remarkable in their ways, and none are beyond repair.

Meanwhile, Jaime Banegas, the current trainer from WorkDogWork, highlighted the program’s impact.

He noted that dogs once seen as castaways now receive much-needed love and care from individuals in a place where such compassion is often lacking.

The dogs are overcoming their fears and loneliness, while inmates are addressing their own challenges to improve their roles.

This mutual growth has been beneficial for everyone involved. Notably, every dog that has completed the program, except for one, has been quickly adopted, highlighting the program’s success.

Prisoners and Animals Working for Success

Southern New Mexico P.A.W.S. benefits inmates and dogs by providing education and life skills.

The program helps dogs find loving homes and teaches inmates patience, compassion, and skills for reintegration.

This initiative is made possible through a partnership between N.M.C.D. and Action Programs for Animals (A.P.A.), a local rescue group.

A.P.A. sends adoptable dogs to the prison, where they live with the inmates and receive about eight weeks of training in basic obedience. Once trained, the dogs are available for adoption through an application process.

P.A.W.S. is funded entirely by donations from people and non-profits in New Mexico. As prison dog programs spread nationwide, this initiative stands out for its focus on reducing recidivism and addressing the state’s high euthanasia rates.

Deming Animal Guardians

Deming Animal Guardians, founded in 1991 by two local women, started with humane education and a spay/neuter discount program for low-income pet owners.

After gaining I.R.S. 501c3 status in 2007, the organization grew significantly. In May 2017, it opened D.A.G.S.H.I.P. Rescue. It took on Columbus Animal Rescue, launching the first no-kill shelters in Luna County.

By 2019, they had expanded with Silver Whiskers Boutique and Unique Gifts, a resale store designed to provide a steady income and boost their town presence.

The store sells high-quality donated items, with all profits going to the animals, supported by volunteer staff.

Deming Animal Guardians has achieved the Guidestar seal of Financial Transparency for several years and received the Best Non-Profit and Best Place to Work awards from the Deming Chamber of Commerce.

The organization greatly appreciates the strong backing from its local community, which includes over 100 members and supporters.

Their donations of time, skills, money, and pet supplies are vital for assisting needy pet owners.

Local government grants, community groups, and private foundations support the organization’s continued success.

Here’s a quick video from Deming Animal Guardians. This non-profit charity cares for hard-to-adopt dogs and other animals:

You can help Deming Animal Guardians by visiting their website.