Puppies For Prisoners

Prison inmates, along with veterans suffering with PTSD, find a second chance at life through their love and care of puppies.
Incarcerated for murder and armed robbery, New York criminals learn to love again by raising puppies behind bars. In this inspirational tale, three selected prisoners battle self-doubt, anger and regret in their attempt to transform dependent pups into service dogs for injured US veterans. Bound together by fate, this uniquely vulnerable trio of puppy, prisoner and veteran come to discover the redemptive power of second chances.
From Prison Dogs
Twitter: / realstoriesdocs
Facebook - / realstorieschannel
Instagram - @realstoriesdocs
Content licensed from Journeyman. Any queries, please contact us at: [e-mail]
If you loved this film, Real Stories has hundreds more full-length documentaries, click the link to enjoy: bit.ly/1GOzpIu

[@montanaskies20012006]

I was part of one of these programs and it changed my life in so many ways. Thank you to all those that support these programs.

[@dawnatkinson7704]

How are you doing now,

[@ary5829]

Yeah, how are you doing now?

[@JayMaddox-ow8uc]

thats awesome! i trained service dogs while in prison & it absolutely changed my life it was the greatest most rewarding thing I've ever done in prison it made me feel great to work with dogs (a true friend) & I was able to help disabled kids with the dogs we trained I absolutely love these kind of programs for prisoners it helps them as much if not more then the people they're training the dogs for I 100% support programs like this & a buddy of mine I was in the dog dorm with got out after 10 years & is currently working as a dog trainer the best program for prisoners

[@ChrisSeaB]

Only 3 minutes in and the look of awe and love on these men's faces is just so sweet.

[@ashleelarsen5002]

Timestamps or it didn't happen

[@ChrisSeaB]

Haha okay. 2:30 but when they are getting assigned puppy's and there looks of excitement was sweet also.

[@ashleelarsen5002]

@@ChrisSeaB I love this idea, training 🦮 is difficult, that is at least a job, and one that is of service to the community... I will watch this next. Happy Weekend!!

[@moparqween8824]

Yeah because criminals are so sweet 🙄🤣🥱🥱🥱

[@samanthamoore6961]

I’m ready to cry

[@caiomhescorner8194]

Awww I'm just bawling here, being so heartbroken watching the inmates let go of their pup. Thank you for such a great story!

[@pascalswager9100]

I'm bawling from the start, this is intense! I never realized how much I rely on my dog for emotional support. I have marfan's syndrome and suffer with chronic, debilitating pain, I rescued him two years ago from a shelter, he's actually my 10y/o Daughter's dog but he sticks to me like glue.

[@trendywipp3715]

@Calomhe's Corner: That made me cry as well. Must have been so hard to let them go. The happy graduation also had a sad under tone.

[@raefarnsworth4278]

@@pascalswager9100 Same. I have bechets disease along with marfans.I cannot tell you how many times my dog has saved my bacon.

[@pascalswager9100]

@@raefarnsworth4278 I always say....theirs always someone worse off! It doesn't make Me feel much better but it is the unfortunate truth. God bless You and your doggo. Take care mate.

[@anonview]

Makes you realize how a safe and loving home environment could have helped prevent so many people from ending up in prison. Still, they're lucky to get some measure of a second chance with these puppies.

[@sophiezieba9705]

I was thinking the same. They have so much love to give .

[@agangstersparadise1]

It is true. I'm a woman, but I had an upbringing like many of these men did. The first time I felt loved in my life was when I was 19 and I got my first dog. She is almost 14 now. I've never loved someone so much.

[@SarahSobieski]

​@@agangstersparadise1

[@agangstersparadise1]

@@SarahSobieski ?

[@jasminejones9937]

@@agangstersparadise1 Same here 👍

[@margaretpeabody243]

I felt sorry for Shannon who was working with Skye, he didn't get past that this wasn't a dog for him to be "best friends", with. He was to train this dog for a veteran in need.

[@schoolinJOO]

having a puppy is exhausting. and it’s so hard to lay into them. it takes 12 months to train a dog. IF you are working at it, and giving the animal consistency. you cannot compromise. it is literally the epitome of “this hurts me more than it hurts you”

[@TheJournalingChick]

Shannon’s concerns about letting another person watch Skye was relatable. I too have a hard time letting others dog sit my small dog. I have the same fears Shannon had. I’m scared someone will step on him or drop something on him. I get it though…Shannon isn’t raising his own dog, he’s raising a service dog. The love is the same though ❤

[@ChachelleHulan]

WHY did the lady smack the guy when he was trying to train the dog she is mean😢

[@PamelaH_HappyVibes]

Every one of those guys kissed their puppies. ❤️ My heart loved that.

[@tracylarrimore3218]

These programs seem like such a win/win for the dogs, inmates and Vet. Wish that humane societies/shelters could have their dogs in prisons for simple obedience training. I bet it would bolster adoptions.

[@krissykoller7241]

Yeah I dont see why the dogs cant be mixed breed etc from pounds and kill shelters. My service dog is a 2-legged rescue from a kill shelter and he is amazing. Best Service Dog I have ever had. A lot of the time mixed breed dogs are smarter than pure bred dogs. So I wish that these programs would adopt their puppies from kill shelters.

[@Ambah818]

oh my heart is bursting just seeing the inmates love for these innocent pups.

[@fluteloops22]

@@krissykoller7241 my mixed breed is an amazing service dog wouldn’t trade her for anything !

[@cassandra8620]

Yes, use rescue dogs ❤️🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶❤️

[@sngray11]

And lower instances of prisoners reoffending as well.

[@mefford67]

*I just watched hardened criminals turn into 5 year old boys filled with joy and awe again.* *Lovely to see…* 💕

[@ninajones1175]

I pray the inmates were able to receive therapy for their loss. I can't imagine the pain it took for them to bear to part with something that was their first experience with love and self sacrifice. Good job men. May many more follow.

[@miss.l.1563]

Therapy? Don't be silly! They knew the assignment, the dogs weren't theres to begin with. If they are so heartbroken then dog training isn't for them.

[@harrietgate]

I absolutely agree with everything you say Nina. They did a wonderful job and it must have been heartbreaking to let the dogs go. How could they not feel this way when they have spent two years together! I have watched this many times and find it extraordinarily moving. Hard to watch without weeping. On a personal note, I adopted a beautiful rescue dog a year ago. I saved her and she has saved me. Her name’s Skye.

[@ninajones1175]

@@harrietgate I too have always adopted. Too many to pay for a pure bred when so many on “death row”

[@TrungTH1190]

@@miss.l.1563 If you want to successfully train a dog, it must be based on trust and relationship. After 2 years raising and caring for the dogs, development of a bond is unavoidable. So even if they understand the assignment, hearts would still be broken when they say goodbye to their dogs.

[@rebeccadelbridge2998]

💯

[@madeleinetanner8129]

The female dog trainer in charge could and should be nicer. She needs to manage her frustration better. She may know how to train dogs, but is lacking in basic people skills. Praise in public and punish in private. There was no need for her to be so nasty.

[@amandavasi1448]

I agree with you. She is very nasty and she hit that man wth!!!!

[@katiegeorgeripia]

Wow unnecessary much

[@jmac7133]

These guys are not going to understand a woman who comes in a says ‘ok, you did really good, but I think you will want to respond quicker with the command, and you are doing a great job.’ These guys are clearly not over sensitive. She brings her energy and she reacts in a way these guys understand. If you watch, she is intense but she jokes and they laugh. She even says why is is so intense. Pay attention. I was going to type before I saw these, most people would respond to being with felons by acting fearful. But this woman does not treat them as tho she is afraid of them, she treats them as tho they are not scary. It’s wonderful to see how much she could anger them yet she seems to be someone they respect and listen to. The men are being rehabilitated to come back into society, and that woman is triggering them, and they turn to each other for advice, and what you see is person growth, non felons would react like children and tell her off and leave, these guys have to figure out a way thru it.

[@gayboysyndrome]

Well she's not letting them train the dogs out the goodness of her heart she's using them for free labour. Like this is prolly the nicest job they've ever been given and being around animals is good but that doesn't change what it is. All the training programs u see going on in prisons are just work being outsourced to them so the employers don't have to pay anyone

[@sammymonstar5358]

@@jmac7133 that’s fair

[@magnificent6668]

Phedra is not a loss, the criteria for this type of service dog is insanely high. She is perfect for an emotional support dog, and will go on to help someone.

[@heatherwolmarans8287]

And would fit perfectly into a family with perhaps a differently-abled child.

[@zombieloveproductions]

I’ve ALWAYS been in favor for this program. Nobody loses! So many dogs are euthanized because shelters are full and have less of a chance of being adopted because they need more one on one time. There are so many more positives for the dogs but I think we all know what they are. But mostly.. I love the purpose that it gives these inmates. Something to be responsible for. A reason to strive to practice good behavior. For them to know someone depends on them and above all that will love them unconditionally. This is literally the best therapy these men could receive. I wish more facilities were involved in animals for inmates. Even when they have pet cats.

[@mousymeh]

Great job guys! What a heart wrenching yet heart warming story♥️🙏🏻

[@katiekat4457]

As much as I would like to see cats saved from the pound. I don't see how cats would be a good fit. First, cats are friendly only to who they feel like being friendly too leaving most prisoners rejected by the cats. Second, Idk how they would contain the cats to one area. They fit right through the bars and would be wondering around trying to escape to the other sides of the closed doors. I have 4 cats and they are always trying to escape outside. The littler boxes would be smelly and a mess. They could train them to be out door cats but who's going to watch them as they investigate the entire grounds of the prison. But I do think it would be great if they could use cats but it's just not practical. Plus I'm sure the prison receives some compensation for keeping the dogs. Working dogs and even emotion support dogs are very expensive. Each prisoner had modified cells. But it is possible that the prison gets nothing but rehabilitated prisoners. A great place for stray cats that are in the pound to go and especially those on death row is nursing homes. A few of them have them already and they are a great spirit booster for the patients that the cat chooses to visit or even better sleeps with. Nursing homes have a lot of space and could easily take in 2 or 3 cats each. There are so many nursing homes across America so that would drastically reduce the amount of cats held in the pounds and the shelters. Nurses or nursing aides or even the cleaning crew could take cat of the cats which is easy. Scoop the litter boxes, fill their food and water bowl. Unfortunately, most nursing homes are not interested in taking in cats which is a same. People really need to do something about all the animals that are held in pounds, put to sleep, or in shelters both kill and non-kill. It's ridiculous how many animals are kept like that. And extremely sad too. Btw, pounds and shelters can call themselves "non-kill" if they keep the killing under a certain percent. I forgot what the percentage was but it wasn't like one percent. It was definitely much higher than that. How is that for a scam??

[@WaffleSalad]

@@katiekat4457100% a nursing home might be a better fit for cats, but I saw a video on here (it’s like 7years old now) where the prisoners have cats. They were strays that just found their way to the prison and bonded with certain inmates. They also had a guy who had befriended a gopher?! They said it helped the inmates because they didn’t want to go solitary confinement and be separated from the cats. It feels like such an obvious solution to our shelter problem and more animals will get to live a happy life

[@friendnamedjane8686]

@@katiekat4457they have this programs for cats too and it has changed inmates lives for the better, the cats are then adopted to loving homes.

[@ClearwaterKB]

My cousin was a puppy trainer while in prison. Her dog didn't make the cut at the end, but I think it was due to a medical issue that developed with the dog. But, since my cousin was to be released soon, they placed the dog as a pet to her. All these years later, that dog is still by her side. My cousin, after a lifetime of crime, is now a productive and law-abiding citizen. I am so proud of her!

[@Michelle-qq4sd]

That’s just wonderful!

[@lamdao1242]

That’s really good news. Very glad your cousin is doing well. The power of love - going both ways, is enormous

[@mschumachers1]

I checked this book kzbin.infoUgkxSw1k29V8f0aNwyGI6qRGYJc3E4Y4Eoxy out at the library - read it cover to cover - and then decided to purchase it, so i can refer to it as needed. This provides additional ways to train in addition to the two obedience classes my sicx month old belgian malinois has already attended. Despite having dogs my whole life, i have been voraiciously reading dog training and psychology books lately given my little "maligator" has a mind of her own (extremely smart but obstinate) , and this one ranks among the best.

[@shearwatercharters5686]

OMG, the dog trainer lady seems like she’s causing the dogs and inmates more stress and anxiety than anyone. I felt so bad for Skye’s trainer (Shannon) when she yelled and humiliated him in front of the class. Please keep this lady away from the poor veterans with PTSD. She needs to go! 🤯

[@christinevanduuren5014]

I fully agree. She even scared me.

[@SimplyGobsmacked]

Thank you, I thought it was just me.

[@sarahm9723]

She's horrific.

[@chrisenda9463]

The trainer is horrendous, if she spent less time screeching and more time instructing those pups would look less confused and worried

[@bored2death5796]

Exactly, shes the professional, not them.....

[@edithnorthparklover]

Agreed

[@earnold1896]

@Chris enda9....yeah she's screeching and over the top. Poor dogs and men. I bet they feel like yelling shut up.

[@Juggernaut-fg2up]

When she reached over and kinda slapped that guy I thought he was gonna lose it. Poor fella

[@earnold1896]

@@sharefortunes166 pfffffttttttttt

[@Maxskinen]

I honestly have doubts about Glorias empathy skills. Sure she made a speech when they gathered at Christmas time but I am having a very hard time actually believing that she really felt it.

[@Sophiesticateduhhuh]

Empathy is not a skill, communication is tho

[@breathnstop]

Empathy is a personality trait, you either have it or not. I agree with you that for someone who believes in second chances she surely didn't give Shannon enough of a chance,

[@WaffleSalad]

I was so upset when she was “threatening” to not give the guy the dog bc she wants to give it to “someone who needs it and will use it”. This isn’t a seeing eye dog where there are few training centers and a huuuuge waitlist. The tasks his dog was trained on are super simple that can be taught in any training place. Also while she trains the dogs and can say who would be a good candidate for being a responsible owner, she cannot decide who *needs* a service dog or not. You would think that since she’s working with people with disabilities/mental health issues she would be a little more patient and thoughtful with her words… It seems like she also can’t put herself in other peoples shoes. When the guy said he wasn’t comfortable announcing his disability I hated her response. Yes people know what a service dog is, but that doesn’t mean they know what his specific disability is. Legally all he has to say is his dog is a service dog trained in [number] tasks to assist me. He does not have to disclose what his disability is

[@shelzblack488]

@@WaffleSalad very true

[@lourdesmckay375]

​@@WaffleSalad I couldn't agree more--especially with your last point about disclosing disabilities to people. I'm a 3rd year public health major and a huge part of what we learn in our applications classes is bedside manner and the appropriate ways to treat people living with disabilities. It is completely inappropriate to approach the topic like she did and it really rubbed me the wrong way--you don't even need to be a public health person to know that, but from a professional standpoint I can tell you it's unacceptable. She's used to talking to prisoners, but needs to understand the attitude you take with one demographic of people is not universal to all demographics.

[@kimberlydawnsmith]

I am having a hard time with Gloria. She teaches with negative reinforcement....and what she is teaching is positive reinforcement for the dogs. I am sure there is a method...but it feels bad to me.

[@anitainmo489]

Why am i crying? Beacuse, I love puppies. But that woman is mean and rude.

[@earnold1896]

Yes a nightmare.

[@heatherwolmarans8287]

She's not mean, or rude, she is clear about the aim, and is dealing with convicted criminals. She runs an absolutely amazing programme _that works_ and knows exactly what she's doing.

[@yusufraheem7586]

@@heatherwolmarans8287 program**

[@VaBeachBeach2971]

Getting a puppy in prison has the be pretty awesome. Imagine not having anyone or anything to love for so many years and then being smothered with love from a cute puppy. It’s love they don’t have to be ashamed of displaying in front of other inmates as well. That’s gotta be a great feeling.

[@ItsAlyssaCali]

This video made me ugly cry so many times. It breaks my heart to watch these prisoners let go of their pups but it makes me feel whole in so many ways how much those dogs will continue to help and service our veterans. I’m so happy to see that people are being given a second chance because EVERYONE deserves one no matter what they’ve done, especially when they have recognized it and have owned up to it !!!

[@kathleenpingelton870]

That lady needs to chill out, stop yelling and keep her hands to herself.

[@mathildewesendonck7225]

True, the dogs are supposed to learn body language. And they must get an „information overload“ with this lady 😅

[@lindajohnson1201]

She has to tough, she's working with men who don't usually follow rules

[@RS-nr6zc]

This type of training program has been proven to help the inmates. Training dogs and horse is very rewarding and can change their lives!

[@jul30ie]

I’m not sure horses could fit in their cells.

[@katiekat4457]

You have to train horses? This is not sarcasm. I really don't know much about horses. I probably rode a horse maybe three times in my life and I'm 54. I didn't realize that horses were trainable. It always seemed like the horse just knew what to do. I never gave it any thoughts. What kind of training does a horse need? And if they are trainable, why can't they potty train them. They constantly crap and they crap everywhere. Once I took one of those horse rides in the ocean and sure enough they even crapped in the ocean. I did find it funny how they love to eat seaweed but were so terrible at timing it so that it would be in it's mouth. I wish I knew horses better. I bet I would really like them. After all I love big dogs. I currently have 2 Great Danes. I also wish for horses that they wouldn't use mouth bits because they are painful. And I wish they would use new materials to make the saddles. They are so bulky and especially heavy. Someone should be invented a saddle that is light weight that is much more comfortable for the horse and still comfortable and functional for the rider. And having the saddle go on easier and quicker would be nice. Why hasn't anybody worked on something like that. I would but Idk horses and I really don't know much about saddles. And the most simple start would be to get rid of those mouth bits and train them a different way. That is cruel. They hurt.

[@lemondrizzle7504]

@@jul30ie lmao, pretty sure some prisons in the Scandinavian countries have stables and allow for horseback riding as well as taking care for the horses

[@sharonwhiteley6510]

What a blessing to these veterans and the gentlemen who put their hearts into working with the animals. All lives have been touched. I don't know if I could say goodbye. Thank you to all involved. May GOD bless.

[@matthewcullen1298]

Amen to that 😃

[@Freya1412]

I foster cats and kittens. It's really hard saying goodbye to these beings that you've put so much love and effort into caring for them. But if I kept the ones who I found homes for, then another cat is going to be put down because shelters don't have the space or resources to cope with the volume of animals being surrendered. Sometimes they have 3 days to be adopted in a shelter and then it's over. I encourage anyone who is able and willing to consider fostering. It's saving lives and every single animal that comes into your home temporarily, leaves a permanent impact on you as a person. It's really a life changing thing to foster.

[@matthewcullen1298]

@@Freya1412 not sure if this helps but we adopted a cat when she was a kitten that someone like your good self helped look after. This message is taking a good while because our beautiful white kitty keeps taping me on the arm for scratches. She has bought a great deal of joy to our lives and sleeps between us at night.she is super sweet and gentle and loving and extremely affectionate. The only time she ever gets upset is when our rottweiler gets overly excited and runs over the top of her. Usually it's when they play chase up and down the hallway. Nancy😺 starts the game but usually stops because Xena 🦮 is a clumsy bulldozer 😃🤣

[@amydee7064]

Fact is all prisons should offer this program. It's so beneficial for everyone involved (the dog, the vet & the trainer). They all walk away better, with either skills they acquired or help for life changing situations. We're too quick to throw away the key & any view of humanity when it comes to prisoners & it's such a harmful outlook. The Lord created us *All* in his image, we'd do well not to forget that. 💯

[@suncam57]

True. For those that are getting released, they have a skill that could help them get a job or start their own business. The pet industry is huge these days.

[@knightartorias1825]

Poor Shannon. I wish that prison had a socialization program for shelter animals as well as a straight training program for service puppies. He's very responsible and empathetic, but he isn't as strict and detached as you need to be to do these advanced service trainings. I think he'd be great in a rescue program for dogs in shelters. I think he could save lots of shelter animal lives.

[@pissip]

There are some programs that let prisoners foster animals off the kill list for later adoption. We need much more of those programs for sure. This can be a life changing program but it's not for everyone

[@Laurie-le4lv]

Good point.

[@JayMaddox-ow8uc]

some prisons do I've been to 2 of them

[@sngray11]

It is a shame that there aren’t many more programs like this one… such a life changing experience for everyone involved. 💗

[@suzmac1526]

I realise these men aren’t choir boys but you can be a tough trainer without the constant screeching. That sound constantly will only serve to confuse the puppies, she is horrendous.

[@amandavasi1448]

She absolutely is. She is down right nasty

[@T_WC123]

At 8:25 - how about you don’t hit people while scolding them while talking about training dogs. That prisoner did better than her - he tried to defuse her anger without responding in kind.

[@T_WC123]

I keep watching and this lady needs a lesson in respectful conversation. She’s seemingly abusing her privilege by taking advantage that the men can’t refuse to accept her poor behavior and is hypocritically not setting a good example.

[@istandout321]

Omg 🥺 the black guy with corn rows at 17:34 is sooo cute ☺️ “ I don’t like her staying away from me. I don’t want anything to happen to my dog because she’s really smoll right now, you know she could eat something she’s not supposed to or something might drop on her , other people aren’t responsible “ 🥺 & when he read his journal 📓 about skye, INSTANT HEART MELT .! I absolutely love this for them man.! Some of these men have never known live let alone UNCONDITIONAL LOVE of a dog . I’m already sad about them having to give the dogs away tho because I know some will be very sad (more attached than others) & I hope that doesn’t cause them to act out. 😟😔

[@istandout321]

Dammit .! Now I’m so sad for Shannon 😔

[@blanketwilliams9178]

I think they get new puppies

[@debbieschultz9768]

I think this is a wonderful program. It’s a lot easier to have empathy for a dog than for people! Dogs love you no matter what.

[@martinamoskale2445]

Debbie Schultz Dogs don't judge you for what you look like, what you have and who you are as a person. They only want to be looked after and be by your side. No strings attached.

[@judyj782]

The woman heading this program isn't the right person to be overseeing anything. Apart from being aggressive and out of touch with both the dogs and inmates she's obviously nuts..How this isn't obvious to everyone especially the authorities is beyond me??

[@angelamitchinson8439]

She rubbed me the wrong way too. I think her heart is in the right place, but she's very off-putting.

[@samanthaconn3895]

I went to prison for a year (10 years ago, ex addict, sober 10 years) and when I got out I became a groomer. Animals are soooooooo healing to the mind, body, heart, and spirit. God sent dogs and cats down here without wings so no one would suspect that they are angels. ❤ Also it KILLS ME that they were so heartbroken to lose their dogs. It would have gutted me too. I realize their purpose is to go to vets but it would still be agonizing to lose them 😢❤ BUT let me also say I LOVE these veterans (especially the one that ended up with Skye) and I could not be happier that they recieved these dogs. What heroes these people are. ❤❤❤

[@sarahm9723]

They're angels, but some of them need us as their therapists too.

[@conradmorin1891]

Congratulations to all the prisoners who partook in this great program, and congratulations to all those involved in bringing such a program forward.>>>I would like to state that even if your dog(s) was not paired-up with a veteran, it was not a failure, as those dogs will make great pets and will change people's lives forever.>>>I would love to have such a dog!>>>I also emphatize with all of you prisoner's , and my heart goes out to each and everyone of you , as giving up your best friend's (Dog) after a 2 years relationships is heartbreaking, as dog's love unconditionally, as you loved them likewise.>>>In my books, You are all heroes, and "THANK YOU" for your contributions, and giving back to society.>>Sending each one of You my warmest regards, and I wish You all a better & successful future.>>>These "Veterans", as their families, will never forget "You" either for your contributions.>>>Great Job Guys.

[@trendywipp3715]

I also think it could be hard on the dogs. They bond, fall in love, and never forget their people.

[@amandavasi1448]

This trainer absolutely needs to go. She is nasty to the guys, she hit the one guy, aggressive. I can see why they guys did want to do what was needed she kills moral. Get rid of this witch

[@Kari.F.]

Wrapping your arms around a dog that you have a close bond with is incredibly calming and comforting. This program is a great thing!

[@sierradanielleAK]

So special. These men needed these dogs and then made the sacrfifice to give them up to soliders who needed them more.

[@estelamarmenezes9294]

Os prisioneiros que tiveram a chance de amar os dogs foi lindo ver os veteranos sorrindo de novo,foi triste criar um amor intenso e se despedir. 😢😢❤❤

[@juliesiddley5316]

All animals are a blessing, show love and they reward you in such special ways, give me animals over people any day, respect ❤️

[@juniperohara9665]

That woman is just so not a nice person. She is constantly being mean and rude to the people doing her dog training work for free. They are people, have some respect and empathy.

[@sarahm9723]

💯

[@tonibailey9853]

The trainer, she slapped one of the inmates, how dare she, she's awful, plus I'm sure half the people in prison have ptsd, that's why they're there. It's messed up the dogs get taken away after. Plus is that free training she gets? Its just using people, they should really get a pound dog as a thank you, thats a real win win

[@amycuaresma]

Am I the only one with tears streaming down my face ?

[@juliesiddley5316]

Me too animals are such a blessing ❤️

[@islandgardener158]

No

[@gabbywestcoast735]

It sucks that sky’s first person got kicked out. He absolutely loved sky and was moreso to protect her than anything.

[@sarahm9723]

It was that crazy, angry lady, who spends her life angry at the world.

[@jake10cool]

I served 20 years in the Navy. I even took a dog to Guam. My current dog is Layla - shelter adoption. The only place I didn't take a dog was Adak Alaska. Love all the dogs I ever had.

[@samlindsey8978]

I love how instantly enthralled they are with their assigned puppies and how much love there is for them. Programs like this one are wonderful for everyone involed - creating a needed job skill (service dog training), needed service dogs, and emotional rehabilitation in the cutest way avaiable. 100% win all around.

[@snoopy-mf7nv]

The lady needs to ease up on that sphincter, her training is much too offensive and humiliating. There at least needs to be a better balance of positivity. It is an excellent program. I would miss my doggie dearly in the end.

[@amandavasi1448]

I know she is downright nasty. These guys already feel bad about themselves

[@laurieottman6905]

With all due respect, Dog training instructor presents her self as being a wee bit Aggressive, Cold and, callous. The way in which she expresses herself is intimidating! Sorry, just call it as, I see it!

[@juliaelrod2154]

That would be really hard to give them up after 2 years of 24/7. 💞

[@marcofeola8094]

Man she seams a little rough that lady, doesn't seam that necessary to be that brought with those guys or their dogs, I'm just saying. I applaud the program but it seams like she could chill a little bit.

[@juliesiddley5316]

Only 20 mins in and this is the best documentary I've seen in years ❤️

[@matthewcullen1298]

A healing process for all involved. Absolutely wonderful

[@mariaparker7545]

From every negative there is a positive and this documentary is a beautiful example of this, feel really happy for the vets but feel really sad for the trainers... It just goes to show if you treat people like human beings and show them love and care they will flourish. God bless these beautiful puppies!

[@AlexAndra-iy5zu]

I cannot remember the gentleman‘s name however it was the gentleman who said look what a great thing I’m doing But look what I did to be able to do this great thing Not in those exact words. It tells me he has a lot of remorse and guilt for what he did. Although he was proud he was able to train the pup into a service dog he cannot let go of the fact the reason why it was possible. Broke my heart. He will most likely suffer from ptsd himself. 1 The crime 2 prison I hope he is able to have a service dog. I think all prisoners win released should have a service dog. Stepping out of prison with accountability and responsibility for their service dog would be a win-win

[@Fluffy-Fluffy]

@@AlexAndra-iy5zu there aren't enough dogs and programs to give every prisoner a service dog. It's unrealistic. A pet? Perhaps. A service dog? No.

[@OreliaLatrice]

This documentary was amazing! God bless the veterans and inmates. ❤ 🇺🇸🐶

[@mrtempleton5302]

Oof that lady was a mess

[@carolehankinson4969]

I understand that the woman who's training the inmates and the dogs has to be realistic, but is it just me who thinks she could have handled it better (alot better) when the Veteran told her he didn't want to say he had a disability in the mock restaurant? Her words cut me as I have PTSD and for her to shout across the room "you chose to say you have a disability", was so bloody wrong. She needs a lesson in dealing with humans in a humane way. He's struggling being around new people and he has to adapt just like everyone else on this training programme, and then to say he'd be wasting the service dog, wow (again I get it) , but she needs lessons in conversing in a decent manner. The woman Tracey I saw didn't have the confidence with (Vectra) as when she asked him to get off the bed he didn't but she gave him a good girl/boy ruggle of the head and all the training would have gone by the wayside. I'm not being mean or picky as I think it's a great documentary and the programme is brilliant, but 8 wanted to give an honest comment. Dog's are wonderful, thank you to all the Service people and thank you to the inmates too. ❤️

[@earnold1896]

I agree she's a nightmare to men and animals. She would put me off even being in the program let alone having a dog around her. Animals need quiet not a screeching harpie.

[@99bottlesofwine]

I completely completely agree with you! The trainer sounded very insensitive, especially when she had a one on one with that one veteran. Tracey though actually did a good job praising the 'down' since the dog actually did the right command (lie down) and Tracey instead tried again with 'off'. I think if she punished the 'down' that would just be confusing for the dog.

[@Shishiochan]

Gloria reminds me of my old Italian teacher in middle and high school. High demands, hard work, tough love, didn't take no bullshit, but praised you immensely if you put in the work and always had an open ear for your troubles. She started often class with lecturing us for being lazy, brain dead zombies when too many students were slacking. 😂 One of the best teachers I ever had. ❤

[@sarahm9723]

? She barely praised anybody and seemed out of control. She needs treatment herself.

[@brendagodinez8285]

I love this so much ❤️ there are so many dogs on the streets without a home and love, helping stray dogs and giving man’s best friend to inmates is great. Puppies give unconditional love always what a great idea. 😊❤️👌🏻

[@ivyeemiller7418]

This is the most cutest wholesome thing I've ever witnessed. I'm so happy they get to be part of such an important process for the benefit of people who served this country 💕

[@sharonharris9782]

This was so wonderful to watch!!! I truly believe in second chances, and these prisoners are showing so much love for these dogs!

[@ShoutItFromTheHousetops]

I totally believe in these programs, but once I saw that woman trainer smack that inmate on his arm and become verbally aggressive towards him and others, I stopped watching. Sadly this sends a clear message that it’s ok for someone to assault another person even if they are incarcerated. Not in my book.

[@V4rya]

48:06 Omg George assumed the lady would say “off” in the first clip, even moved to get off, but George did a double take when she said “down” and then did the down! Also her saying “the dog’s trained. I’m not” killed me 😂

[@meowmirrr]

That one vet was so incredibly shell shocked. And they didn't provide an update on him. I really hope he's doing ok.

[@naturegirl8248]

Such amazing & strong men for turning their life around and teaching and taking care of those precious puppies/dogs. It was so heartbreaking watching them go💔🙏🩷

[@t.j.sonofjonaslove8225]

That mean woman didn't let Luis's dog get through because he stood up to her. She's an alpha bit**, if you don't do everything the way she wants when she wants she'll humiliate you when it's time 🤨. Luis don't let her break your confidence man.

[@redcorner8953]

At the end when they walked back in with their assigned dogs and Luis noticed his dog wasn't there and she told him the dog failed, he looked like a sad little boy. I felt so sorry for him, he was heartbroken.

[@sj-art]

Programs like this have a huge impact on recidivism as well. When prisons move away from the inmate = bad person who is only there to be punished it helps not only the inmate but the community as well. A program I heard interviews from once allows some prisoners to get college degrees. One professor said his inmate students are his favourite because they want to learn more than the students at the community College. One of the inmates said he'd grown up only really knowing "you show me respect and then I will show you respect" and all he could talk about was guns and drugs. After taking classes he realized he didn't deserve respect automatically, he needed to earn it, and he was so proud that he could talk about history, art, and politics now. It can only help them to give them a new way of thinking than what they had when they got in trouble.

[@nikkilynn559]

Beautiful documentary. Animals will always love us no matter what you look like, what you have done. Unconditional love.

[@Loungesugar]

Shannon and Skye were the best part. That trainer woman is humiliating and degrading. I get it I’m from NY I understand her direct speech…. But her lack of empathy is sad to watch. Hated watching her berate those men (that was not constructive criticism). Idc if she started the program, maybe she should relocate to behind the desk. Give her position with someone more empathetic and way less critical. You can still demand perfection and not act like that.

[@martinamoskale2445]

This is a fantastic idea. Gives the inmates a purpose and it's character-building. I suppose a lot of these men have rarely fulfilled a sensible task in their life, now is their chance. A win for all involved.

[@juliaelrod2154]

Seems like just recently people have been tapping into the therapeutic company of animals. 💞

[@suzeelewis718]

I absolutely and totally disagree with the woman at around 49 minutes!!! He hasn’t ‘announced’ anything!! It through a disability he has the dog. Does she have to explain to anyone why she wears a scarf around her neck or has her hair up!! NO ONE should have to explain why they have a service dog unless they chose to tell people!! That lady needs to re address and retrain I’d say!! She IS VERY negative and not supportive at all!!!

[@victoriacyr5150]

This video just makes me wanna go home and play with my puppy 😭❤️🐶 thank you for this documentary, very heart warming

[@amandavasi1448]

I really don't Ike the training lady. She yells and hit that man???

[@Orpilorp]

Hi! Jane here. I heard about this program a few years back. It is a win, win, win situation for the dogs, the veterans who need the dogs, and the inmates. Everyone has made mistakes, but these mistakes had greater consequences. Most everybody wants and needs forgiveness, and the one gentleman said, "He did a wrong thing, and now he wants to do a right thing". Great program.

[@chanelcarlson3001]

This show brought tears to my eyes! Haven’t seen anything this heartfelt in a long time!❤️

[@tylerisntokay4513]

that lady has got to be more empathetic. these men are phenomenal (save for skye who was training the dog to be a best friend for himself rather than to help a veteran) and this program is so beneficial to everyone involved

[@sassykat2000]

It's quite unfortunate this woman is about money in her pocket the way she is. These dogs don't need to be purebred Labradors or Retrievers. There's PLENTY of PTSD or Emotional Support dog candidates in the shelters and other prison programs pull them from those shelters and give that dog great training for a well deserved HOME. Inmates have remarked how great it has been for them to save the dogs and give the dogs a second chance at a great life.

[@marshmallow7640]

@@sassykat2000 Absolutely not, shelter dogs have too many issues, a well bred and known genetic line is best

[@sherijacobsen1077]

The training lady is wrong. You can show your Service Dog Ada service card, you do NOT have to tell people WHAT your disability is. Invite the public to call the number on the ADA card and find out what they need to know...which is that you have a legal right to your service dog as well as a right to your HIPPA Privacy rights!

[@brianturner7214]

I dont know who I am more proud of here. The dogs, the inmates or the recipients of these dogs. This story really touched me. With all the bad news and crazy stuff and division going on it was so uplifting to see such a positive outcome from beginning to end of this story. Thanks to ALL.

[@frogganna]

This was a great documentary. I love these programs for prisoners. I think there should be more of them.

[@waitiwaita6993]

Beautiful…best thing that could of happened to these guys

[@tammywojanbrewer8586]

Sobbing for the inmates having to let go of their babies...❤

[@niveditabhattacharjee7362]

I stopped watching midway. She was freaking me out. I guess only hardened criminals can put up with her screaming and restless, hyper, maniacal behaviour.

[@rahc1819]

Exactly. She made the documentary unwatchable.

[@CMoore8539]

I can understand what a wonderful thing it is to raise these puppies for vets w/ptsd But I think if an inmate has a way to take these dogs home, that would be good too. Many inmates also have ptsd. I do realize that it’s probably impossible. I just hope that they learn how great of a friend a dog can be and maybe they can get another puppy when they get to go home.❤

[@paula19335]

Louis.. your dog was just not meant for those people. He was meant for somebody else and he is going to change the life of that person. You've done an incredible job and I hope the best of the best for you. I know a beautiful person when I see one❤

[@labellavitakc4706]

The teacher is a little harsh ....idk why she has to be so mean like she be yelling they are trying to train these dogs.....and those dogs can feel her energy...love the program and all but teacher shouldn't be so harsh 🤷‍♀️ God Bless these puppies and dogs .....

[@psrosemary]

That teacher/trainer seriously needs to take some adult education courses. I had to stop watching at 24:23 because she was making me so uncomfortable. I hope she was replaced after this documentary was released.

[@rotarypower956]

Makes me sad how so broken some these vets are. I’m so glad for these guys in prison stepping up training those dogs. Not only are they helping veterans, but also themselves. I wish that dog who was going to be pet go to the guy’s family back home. Also, I’d to see a more recent update on the ones that have been released. Hope their doing well

[@harrietgate]

Wept throughout. I have had 7 yellow Labs and my latest dog is a rescue called Skye. Such a wonderful program where so many benefit.

[@truegrit7697]

It's really so simple - we all just want to love and be loved. Its sad how we humans keep getting in our own way.

[@safepethaven]

They need Cesar Millan to train the inmates to train the dogs to be service dogs for the veterans; this woman is so wrong for this program.

[@Tribunal1023]

This was a beautiful story. Much respect to these inmates for the hard work they put into these service dogs in order to help our vets.

[@zaza-flower-12345]

THE INSTRUCTOR IS GIVING ME A KIND OF “HARSH” FEELING…..I WOULDN’T LIKE TO HAVE SOMEONE LIKE HER AROUND ME AS AN INSTRUCTOR!!!!! NEVER EXPECTED TO CRY SO MUCH BTW!

[@carloslarrazabal6778]

The lab carrying his own bowl how precious

[@corykew1985]

This is actually a good and thoughtful experience for both strays and prisoners. Lord help us but it's all about love and training at the end of the day

[@Caramelletje]

I cant imagine how sad they must be when their dogs have to go. They did well and it must have hurt❤

[@kaykatt]

If you have a service dog.. you are NOT AT ALL required to say you are disabled or WHY you are..

[@highpsi11]

Dogs have true healing power. And that all of these men learned complicated new skills and got in touch with emotions they may not have felt for years motivated by the hope and healing that the dogs give them is testimony to that power.

[@lamdao1242]

Yes. Even the part when they have to give up their beloved dog. Because loss of someone you love is part of being alive. So though I can imagine what a prisoner might feel when he’s got to give up their dog, it’s also good for them too.

[@jakkipellow4518]

Well that was just a beautiful documentary from start to finish...much love to all who were in it x

[@patpickard6195]

So very proud of these prisoners also feel so sad for them because that is hard to have those dogs and then give them up.

[@Tanya-ob5tb]

This made me cry. I wish the best for the inmates, the veterans and the dogs.