New group of puppies arrive at Darling Downs Correctional Centre

New group of puppies arrive at Darling Downs Correctional Centre

The second group of puppies arrive today at Darling Downs Correctional Centre as part of the ground-breaking Pups in Prison rehabilitation program.

Corrective Services Minister Judy Spence said four puppies will be presented to the centre, just outside Toowoomba, by Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) Chief Executive Officer Richard Lord.

Ms Spence said: “I am pleased this important rehabilitation partnership between ADA and Queensland Corrective Services will continue to bring puppies and prisoners together at Darling Downs.

“The innovative program will not only provide rehabilitation for prisoners by teaching them the importance of caring for others, it will also provide assistance dogs for people with disabilities.

“Pups in Prison is a great way for offenders to make a positive contribution back to the community.

“This government is committed to providing a range of prisoner rehabilitation programs in Queensland’s correctional centres.

“It is great to see this ground-breaking initiative is making a real difference to the lives of Queenslanders in need.

“Assistance Dogs Australia does a fantastic job in their work training companion dogs for people with disabilities and it is a pleasure to be involved in the important role they play in our community.”

Mr Lord said the puppies will again be cared for by prisoners at DDCC during the next 16 months.

“The two black Labradors Taggart and Tasma and two Golden Retrievers Trapper and Twiggy are all eight-weeks-old,” he said.

“Prisoners will be required to care for them, which will give them new levels of responsibility, self-esteem and communication skills.

“Pets are known to help reduce stress levels, and they should also increase general self-esteem with the prisoners, as well as patience, compassion and cooperation.

“At the end of their 16 month stint in the prison, the dogs will be returned to ADA who will train them to work with people with disabilities,” Mr Lord said.

DDCC General Manager Julie Steinheuer said centre staff and prisoners were excited to be receiving another group of puppies.

“Pups in Prison has been a fantastic addition to our programs, education and training opportunities,” she said.

“The puppies offer a new kind of experience for prisoners, encouraging them to take care and responsibility for others.

“There was a mixture of sadness and pride when we saw our first group graduate at Parliament House on April 29.

“Although we were very sad to see Toomba, Truman, Topaz and Taylor leave the centre, the arrival of these new youngsters is an exciting new chapter to this highly successful program,” Ms Steinheuer said.

Mr Lord said ADA is very excited that the program is continuing in Darling Downs.

“These remarkable dogs change the lives of many people who have suffered quadriplegia as a result of traumatic accidents,” he said.

Assistance Dogs Australia is a non-profit organisation that trains Labradors and Golden Retrievers to help enhance the quality of life and improve the level of independence for people with disabilities.

Media Contact: Minister’s Office – 3239 6203

Richard Lord, CEO Assistance Dogs Australia – 0418 297 555

Carly Wood, QCS Media and Communications – 3239 3945 or 0409 581 543