Training Rescue Dogs as Service Dogs for Veterans

After more than 10 months of hard work, it was graduation day for two dogs and their inmate trainers at the Timpanogos Women’s Correctional Facility.

Sawsan Whitelaw and Haylee Cheek received certificates Wednesday as trainers in Canine Life and Social Skills (CLASS) for their work with the Canines With A Cause program at the prison.

It was a bittersweet moment, though, as the women had to say goodbye to the two dogs they and other inmates trained: Glory and Captain left for “finishing school” at a residential substance abuse treatment center. After four to six weeks there, they’ll be placed with veterans who have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder — the ultimate goal of Canines With A Cause.

The nonprofit launched its rigorous training program at the prison last April.

Glory and Captain both achieved “bachelor degrees” in behavior during their time at Timp, learning things all the best companion dogs know.

But they weren’t the only ones transformed during the process, said Capt. Maryann Reding.

Whitelaw had never had a pet and was apprehensive during her first meeting with Glory last spring. She didn’t touch the dog even when Glory sat right in front of her, Reding said.

“It’s changed her tremendously,” Reding said. “She’s done an awesome job.”

Another dog who graduated from the program — Liberty — went home with veteran Caleb Dunham last Thanksgiving. Four other dogs in the prison’s first class— Valor, Jet, Sierra and Sergeant — did not graduate but received good training and were placed for adoption.

There are just two dogs at the facility currently, but others will arrive this week. Some will stay for a 12-week basic training program, while the best of the bunch will continue in the veterans program.

Links:

• Deseret News