Two Saskatchewan researchers have seen evidence that pet therapy in jails can be effective. Their program PAWSitive Support has been offered at Drumheller Institution since 2016. Dr. Colleen Dell is with the University of Saskatchewan and Dr. Darlene Chalmers is with the University of Regina.

Chalmers explains that there are a few programs in Canada, but most are about the animals, where they are training them to be service dogs or are providing a doggy daycare. PAWSitive Support is about the inmates, helping them to re-connect.

Dell says the dogs help to induce calmness and bring about more sociability as they let their guard down. Dogs are non-judgemental, so working with them is a way to learn patience and problem-solving. As an example, one of her dogs had a fear of plastic, so the inmates figured out a positive reinforcement process of introducing treats when the dog heard the plastic and covering a toy with plastic to take the fear away.

Dell explains the inmates’ connections with the therapy dogs increased recognition of their personal feelings and emotions and positively impacted their conduct. One man who is now out of jail says his ability to stay sober is because of his involvement with the program.

Dell and Chalmers spoke at a Saskatchewan SPCA conference on the human-animal bond.