Read more about the Paws in Stripes program from the Portland Press Herald. read >

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 kittens and 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.

Kittens and 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 kittens and puppies are ready for adoption, they return to the Animal Refuge League.

Your generous donation will allow this new program to grow and continue to enrich the lives of animals, their handlers and the community.

In addition to monetary donations, much-needed supplies for Paws in Stripes include:

• High-quality, soft-training treats for puppies
• Canned puppy and kitten food with flip top lids in single serving cans
• Kitten and puppy safe, washable toys
• Puppy and kitten nail trimmers and brushes
• Unscented, clumping cat litter
• Funding for educational animal care and training materials for prisoners