Inmates in Martin County Florida are helping disabled vets. This is part of a partnership between the Florida Department of Corrections and Dogs 4 Disabled Veterans.
In a nutshell the inmates are training dogs to be service animals for disabled veterans. They are starting with a small number of animals. There are 10 inmates working with 6 potential service dogs.
Those who work with the disabled know that service dogs are great assets. The problem is there are more disabled than there are service dogs.
Most people are familiar with service dogs for the blind. However, service dogs are being used by a much wider population now. There are service dogs for those in wheelchairs, for the deaf, those with autism, diabetes, seizure disorders, mental health issues such as depression and schizophrenia, and to help and assist so many more persons with a large variety of disabilities.
These inmates are learning a new skill – dog training. They are being productive and have a sense of purpose. And the dogs they are training will be of great benefit to veterans with disabilities.
This is one of those win win situations. The inmates benefit. Those with disabilities benefit.
We need to see more cooperation and partnerships between government agencies and non-profits such as Dogs 4 Disabled Veterans.
Great work Collier County – keep it up. Let us hope other counties follow your example.
Originally appeared on the View From The Dark Side of The Moon Blog
Leave a Reply