Prison Program

Pooches and Pals: A Partnership That Changes Lives

Since 1996, KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. (KSDS) has partnered with the Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF) to operate Pooches and Pals—a transformative program that benefits both people and pups.

This initiative prepares young dogs to become assistance animals for individuals with disabilities, while also providing life-changing experiences for the women who train them. Under the leadership of Adell Aubert, KSDS Puppy Raiser Coordinator and longtime trainer, the program delivers intermediate training after dogs complete their early puppy phase.

Program Structure and Daily Life

At any given time, approximately 30 women at TCF are involved in the program. Dogs live with their assigned handlers 24/7 for two to four months, receiving constant care, socialization, and structure. Participants also organize fundraisers to support the dogs’ needs—covering medical care, food, toys, bedding, and enrichment supplies.

Handlers are divided into a structured hierarchy of apprentices, secondary handlers, and primary handlers, with each level trained and mentored by those who have passed KSDS skill tests and certification steps. Weekly sessions are led by Adell, who checks in with each team and often takes the dogs on supervised public outings to prepare them for real-world settings.

Despite shared living quarters and limited personal space, the women are deeply committed. Many have given up more lucrative prison jobs to participate in the program, driven by a desire to grow, give back, and work toward something bigger than themselves.

💬 Voices from the Program

Luz, a primary handler since 2019, shared how the dogs have grounded her during difficult times:

“The dogs have stabilized me, keeping me positive and focused.”
She takes her role seriously, knowing her efforts are preparing a dog to empower someone with a disability. Her experience has inspired her to pursue a degree in business management—with hopes of building a future in canine training.

Jessica, another primary handler, was initially hesitant to join. But after encouragement from a friend, she found purpose and strength in the program.

“The program has helped me build my own confidence, and it’s given me the patience to rebuild parts of myself I had lost.”  She credits Pooches and Pals with teaching her essential life skills like goal-setting, team management, and how to teach and mentor others.

Purpose and Impact

Each week, handlers submit detailed reports to KSDS trainers to ensure dogs are meeting developmental benchmarks and any challenges are addressed promptly. Since its inception, over 675 dogs have completed training through Pooches and Pals.

But the true impact goes beyond numbers. These dogs go on to change lives—offering mobility, support, and companionship to people with disabilities. And the women who train them gain confidence, skills, and a sense of purpose that continues far beyond the facility walls.

The program also boasts exceptionally low relapse rates, reflecting the deep personal growth that comes from helping others.

🤝 A Shared Mission of Growth

At its heart, Pooches and Pals embodies a mission of service, personal transformation, and giving back. KSDS is proud to partner with these dedicated women and grateful for the role they play in raising the next generation of assistance dogs.

Their work not only changes lives for those who receive the dogs—it transforms their own.