Tiger, a pit bull terrier rescued from a dog fighting ring, and a number of other pets in need of special attention now call it home.
To help abused canines heal and regain trust in humans, MASH has established a program in which incarcerated individuals take care of these animals. The dogs that have been rescued and brought to the shelter benefit much from this program, but the inmates benefit just as much from the opportunity to play with and care for so many adorable canines. As part of the 30 day program, women in prison are transferred to the refuge six days a week. The shelter has been open since the year 2000, giving incarcerated people the opportunity to contact with animals while also giving dogs, cats, and horses a safe place to be while they wait for a permanent home. Volunteers respond to reports of animal cruelty, enter the homes to rescue the animals, and return them to the shelter for rehabilitation. Bow Wow Way, Purr Lane, 2nd Chance, and Ruff Road are the new names for the cells that have been transformed into little quarters for the canines. Lovely.
One of the ladies in the program, Kristina Hazelett, told REUTERS, "I get so much out of it, possibly more than the dogs do."
As a delightful and unexpected bonus, "it's incredibly soothing for me as well, not just them."
Before being authorized to begin caring for the dogs, Kristina and the other ladies in the program went through extensive interviews and examinations.
