Prison Program

Circle Tail’s dogs are trained by our on-site trainers, volunteers, and through our rehabilitative Prison Program. Circle Tail’s Inmate/Canine Educational Training Prison Program began in September 1998 and we currently work with the Ohio Reformatory for Women and the Dayton Correctional Institute in Ohio.

The Prison Program helps promote inmate life quality, as well as train puppies/dogs to increase independence for persons living with disabilities. These inmates often tell stories about how Circle Tail has transformed their lives while they are helping to transform the lives of others.

Inmate Testimonials

“I wanted to write you to tell you how important the Circle Tail program is to me, and the other women here at ORW. The beautiful thing about this program beyond helping others is that these dogs have helped me, too. Each and every dog has taught me something about life: has taught me patience, confidence in myself, understanding. My father has told me some of his most proud moments he has of me are the stories I tell him about training my Circle Tail dogs.” – Missie

“The Circle Tail program is absolutely essential to me. I love dogs and partnering with them so they can grow to help others is so rewarding. There are so many women here who lack confidence and self-esteem and I’ve seen firsthand how dog training has also helped them grow to be self-confident and they and their dogs succeed together. I can’t describe how thankful I am to all those who make this program possible.” – Erica

“I’m writing to tell you how much I appreciate everything that you do for the dog program. This program is amazing to me because not only am I learning how to teach these lessons to these amazing dogs and puppies, I also am able to possibly make a difference in a great way in someone’s life and that to me is a truly amazing and wonderful gift to be able to give.” – Chyna

“I would just like to tell you this program means a great deal to me. I have learned an ample amount about dogs. Also it’s taught me a great deal of patience and structure that I was missing.” – Michayla