Prison Program

Since March 1996, Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF) and KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. (KSDS) have collaborated to host a program called Pooches and Pals.

The dogs in training at TCF are owned by KSDS, but Pooches and Pals is responsible for all aspects of the dog’s care. Program members hold fundraisers to pay for routine and emergency medical bills, medications, training equipment, dog crates, linens, enrichment toys, grooming supplies, and other necessities. Training these dogs is voluntary and is completed in addition to inmates’ assigned jobs. The members of Pooches and Pals send reports about each dog’s health and progress in training every two to four weeks for the duration of the dog’s stay at the correctional facility.

Although members train the dogs on a daily basis, special training sessions are supervised by KSDS contracted trainer, Adell Aubert. At least once a week, Adell goes to TCF to assist in specific skills with the dogs-in-training. She also takes the dogs individually to area businesses and events to socialize them outside of the prison setting. KSDS is grateful for all those who work with our dogs at TCF and help make the Pooches and Pals program successful.

“Assistance dogs have a lot of purpose, not only for the community, but with us as inmates, too. It gives us a chance to help others, as well as a chance to work on ourselves to grow and become better individuals.”

Testimonies from Pooches and Pals members

“Pooches and Pals has given me more to look forward to. The teams/animals and the people who train the dogs need us to be committed. I have grown up by being a part of Pooches and Pals. I love our teamwork. I feel like we are all one big family!”