Prison Pup Program — Canine Support Teams

Program

Prison Pup Program

A collaborative training model where incarcerated puppy raisers help develop future service dogs.

Who This Program Serves

Correctional partners, CST trainers, and future service dog handlers.

  • Builds foundational obedience and socialization through a structured curriculum.
  • Creates meaningful rehabilitation opportunities for incarcerated participants.
  • Expands CST's capacity to prepare high-quality dogs for advanced training.

Timeline & Commitment

Typical Timeline

Dogs typically complete 4-6 months of focused development in the prison program.

Participant Commitment

The model depends on weekly trainer oversight, institutional coordination, and consistency.

Getting Started

Steps to begin your journey with this program.

1

Dogs enter after early socialization milestones are completed.

2

Inmate trainers receive weekly instruction from CST staff.

3

Dogs transition to advanced placement pathways after completion.

Important Notes

  • Program contributes to both canine readiness and participant rehabilitation outcomes.
  • Institutional partnerships are essential to sustaining this training pathway.

Ready to apply or learn more?

We will help you determine the right pathway and next steps based on your goals.