Several Dogs Find New Homes After Successful Inmate Training Program

BROOKSVILLE – Great news for recent furball graduates of the Heel to Heal program, after officials say all candidates have been successfully adopted.

According to Hernando County Officials, Hernando County Animal Services (HCAS) and Hernando Correctional Institution 1st "Heel to Heal" canine obedience training program graduation took place on May 17, 2022. These dogs spent 8 weeks with pre-approved inmate volunteers to provide daily care for the dogs under the guidance of a certified canine obedience professional.

The first session training fees were sponsored by the non-profit organization Operation Kindness for Hernando County Animal Services, Inc.

HCAS Director James Terry says, "I call it a win, win, for the inmates and the animals. The inmates learn a trade and the animals are safely adopted to new homes." Terry says the program was abandoned a few years ago and now that it's back, he hopes to keep it around for a long time.

Terry tanks The Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF) for sponsoring the next 8-week training session for the Heel to Heal program. RARF was founded by NFL star Logan Ryan who partners with animal welfare organizations nationwide promoting adoption and providing financial and educational opportunities to better the lives of animals.

For more information on the Heel to Heal program, or if you are interested in sponsoring additional sessions, please contact James Terry from Hernando County Animal Services at 352-796-5062.