Paws in Stripes is a partnership between the Animal Refuge League and the Maine Correctional Center in Windham. Prisoners who take part in Paws in Stripes play a major role in the socialization of select puppies from our shelter. The prisoners teach the animals basic manners while helping them experience a variety of new people, places, sounds and textures.   

Prisoners undergo an application and interview process prior to being chosen for the program. Those selected to be handlers become responsible for the around-the-clock care of their foster animals and must keep daily observation logs and attend training classes. Most of all, they must take pride in providing a high level of care and compassion to their animals. Being a Paws in Stripes handler is a full-time job.

One inmate said of the program, “Now that I’m out with the dogs, I’m not as lonely. I’m not scared anymore. I walk around, I have a lot of friends” Stories like this are common among the inmates. Two of the inmates have worked hard to receive their GED while in this program and cite Paws In Stripes as their inspiration.

Puppies reside in the cells with their handlers. The animals enjoy indoor and outdoor playtime and attend meetings with staff throughout the facility. When the puppies are ready for adoption, they return to the Animal Refuge League.

This is what one of the Prison Social Workers has to say about the program:

“Paws In Stripes, the puppy program here at the prison brings a sense of humanity to the prison and a sense of purpose to the inmates. I see a shift in their attitude to a positive one, it gives them hope.”