WILSONVILLE, Ore. — A heartwarming reunion took place Thursday at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, as inmates who helped raise service dogs were able to see the animals again — this time with their new owners.
From Puppies to Partners
The service dogs spent the first 18 months of their lives inside Oregon’s only women’s prison, cared for and trained by inmates serving as puppy handlers. The women are responsible for teaching the dogs basic skills, socializing them, and preparing them for the next stage of their journey.
The program, launched in 2023 by Canine Companions, is designed to give the dogs the foundation they need to become reliable service animals.
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Training and Preparation
During their time at Coffee Creek, the dogs learn 30 different cues such as “sit,” “paw,” and other obedience commands. They are also introduced to everyday routines like grooming, helping ensure they remain calm and comfortable in different environments.
After their time in Oregon, the dogs continue to a training center in California, where they undergo advanced instruction and are eventually certified as service dogs.
Life-Changing Impact
For the inmates, the program is more than just handling puppies — it’s an opportunity to build responsibility, compassion, and connection. Many describe the experience as deeply meaningful, knowing that the animals they helped raise will go on to transform someone’s life.
For the new owners, the reunion provides a chance to thank the women who contributed to the dogs’ development. Service dogs often provide critical support for people with disabilities, offering greater independence, safety, and companionship.
A Shared Celebration
The reunion at Coffee Creek highlighted not only the dedication of the handlers but also the powerful impact of rehabilitation programs that connect incarcerated individuals with service to others.
As the dogs wagged their tails and reunited with their first caretakers, the moment underscored the full circle of the program — from puppies raised with care, to service animals changing lives across the country.
