Larch Correctional Facility in Yacolt,Washington started a pilot program pairing two "unadoptable" cats with prisoners. A local animal shelter supplied the cats, who have issues with people and other animals. The prisoners were chosen based on a pre-set time period of good behavior. Some admit that they signed up for the program because it got them out of the group living quarters and into a double.
It's only been a short while since Princess Natalie and Clementine joined the men there, but already they are showing improvements in their behavior. The men working with the cats are also seeing a change within themselves. It's no longer about only looking out for yourself, a living creature is relying on you.
 |
| I got this photo from the slideshow on SVG Tribune's website |
The prison is planning on getting 4 more cats for their "Cuddly Catz" program. I think it's a great idea, not only does it teach about caring for others, but it's also a great lesson in patience and building trust. The change that the cats go through shows the men that it is possible to change your ways.
PS. I LOVE that they are walk the cats! I used to walk my cat when he was younger.
Lovely story. Thanks for sharing it.
ReplyDeleteI just went to your website and I think it's awesome that you wrote a book about animal psychology. (http://www.klance.com/Animal_Mind.htm) I'd love for you to guest post about that.
DeleteI've been wanting to include in my blog tips for people with animals and how to take care of them so they can continue to care for you. I'm hoping to make it a once a month post and I'd love for you to contribute something for next month if you're interested.
I loved reading this, and kudos Larch Correctional Facility for doing such a wonderful thing to help both the cats and the prisoners. It would be great if you could do a guest post about animal therapy or animals helping people for the AltMedForYou blog.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to write a guest post for you. I'm hoping you'll be the one to start off my monthly post about animal care.
DeleteTeaching a cat to walk on lead without a fight takes patience!
ReplyDeleteI walked mine when he was still a kitten, so he didn't know any different. I don't know if he would still walk on a leash, I haven't tried in a while because my husband bought me a dog to walk instead.
DeleteSarah, what's the strangest animal you've seen walked on a leash?
ReplyDeleteHmm, I've seen dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, an iguana and a serval on leashes. What about you?
DeleteI love that post - what a great way to make life changes. Thanks for sharing it with us.
ReplyDeleteI used to walk my rabbit on a leash and harness - he loved it and so did I.
Patti
Aww! Did people look at you funny or do a double take when they saw you out walking?
DeleteWhat a hoot! My cats would NEVER accept a leash ~ they're free range - lol.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this inspiring story!
Free range?! I love it!
DeleteThe leash thing, I had no trouble at all with my cat, but what helped was a cat jacket rather than a harness. Like these wonderful ones here that are tailor made (I'm not advertising, I just know that Ronan loves his jacket !): http://www.mynwoodcatjackets.moonfruit.com/ - the main thing, is cats don't go for walks. they walk you... and what is so great, is he'll never ever get run over by a car.
ReplyDelete