The Lancaster Correctional Institution, in partnership with Gilchrist County Animal Services, runs an extraordinary program called Cuffs and Collars, a program aimed at increasing the adoptability of shelter dogs while teaching inmates valuable life skills. Over a 4-6 week period, volunteers work with inmate handlers to train the dogs in basic obedience and socialization techniques.
The dogs are trained in seven basic obedience skills such as accepting a friendly stranger, sitting politely for petting, and walking through a crowd. Upon program completion, they are available for adoption for just $75, which includes spay/neuter, rabies vaccinations, and identification chip.
Jon Reed, Correctional Program Administrator, says, “We are not only saving dogs from being euthanized, we’re teaching our handlers valuable life lessons such as responsibility, empathy and unconditional love. All of the Lancaster inmates will get out, therefore we are making better neighbors.”
One of the program’s dedicated volunteers, Sharon Vogel, owner of Earthwise Pet Jonesville, was recently named Volunteer of the Year at Lancaster. A weekly presence at the facility for the past year, Vogel supports the inmate handlers and the dogs in their training. “I love getting to know all the dogs being rescued and seeing them get adopted,” she says. “I also enjoy working with the handlers - seeing them be responsible for the dogs and teaching them good pet nutrition.”
Among the many dogs to pass through the program, one has left a lasting mark—Freda, an easygoing dog who began training in 2020. Freda remained at the facility due to a knee injury. Five years later, it was time for Freda to find a permanent home—but staff were determined to find the right one. After much encouragement, Sharon agreed to adopt her.
“Freda is so even-tempered, gets along with other dogs, and loves coming to the store each day,” Vogel shares. “I am so happy to have her in my life.”