Posted on 04/13/2012 6:36:14 PM PDT by Silentgypsy
A new foster-cat program at the Larch Corrections Center is improving life for inmates and felines alike. Larch, a minimum-security facility near Yacolt, WA, launched the Cuddly Catz program two weeks ago; Cuddly Cats pairs pound-bound cats with inmates who meet certain requirements (did not commit a violent crime against animals or humans; free of prison demerits for at least six months; set to remain at Larch for at least a year after receiving a program cat; and passing an extensive screening process). The program definitely benefits the inmates. Joey Contreras and Joseph Walter share a ten-by-twelve-foot cell – and charge of Princess Natalie, a long-haired black cat. Contreras noted in an Olympian.com article by Paris Achen that fostering a feline has given him an increased sense of purpose. "When you're doing prison time, you get set in certain ways and forget what it's like to have everyday interactions and be compassionate," Contreras said. "It's a little different when you have an animal depending on you to survive. Animals bring out the best in people."
(Excerpt) Read more at shine.yahoo.com ...
Ping.
I hope it all works out.
With some exceptions for the very violent offenders, which they seem to be following, it seems like a good program. Most will be out eventually anything that helps them come out better instead of worse.
Sounds like a decent idea. I like it.
Cats have a way of training people that no human can do.
We’ll be seeing a lot of different tattoo art on big tough guys coming out of prison...
FiFi forever...I love Pooches...
I hope they can expand the program. Also the ones for seniors and cats.
Kittehs Behind Bars
I’ve seen dogs and horses cared for by inmates, and I cats are the next logical step. All are smart animals, and all can elicit major changes in the people they love.
XOXO
Very true. My cats have me well-trained.
They just taught you what love is, and you did the rest!
Since cats have staff, rather than owners, maybe these felons will be employable when they are released:-)
Justice is served.
Insidious...
Cats do prefer their thralls pre-conditioned.
My cat agrees with you :)
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