Read how unwanted dogs provide hope to a growing prison population.

Each year Colorado spends an average of $27,588 on each of its more than 21,400 prisoners, a staggering $591 million overall, much of it on repeat offenders. Attempting to reduce recidivism, Governor Bill Ritter has turned to rehabilitative vocational and work programs. At the Cañon City Territorial Correctional Facility, dog trainer Debi Stevens leads an intensive course that teaches inmates to discipline and control dogs. In turn, these inmates gain confidence, trust, and affection—and perhaps, a path back into society.

5280 April 2008
More From The Issue