Our mission is to rescue dogs from city and county shelters in need of socialization and training, and place them with incarcerated trainers. Through this partnership, our trainers — supported by our K-9 Unit — develop rehabilitation models that serve as a standard for other programs. By combining effective dog-training methods with proven rehabilitation practices, we are saving lives, reducing euthanasia rates, and preparing dogs for service roles. Cell Dogs are available for adoption through the Gulf Coast Humane Society and Lee County Domestic Animal Service. We encourage you to visit their website to learn more about our available graduates.
In October 2004, Retired Captain Thomas Weaver established the LCSO Cell Dog program, designed as a K-9 rehabilitation initiative that involves inmates as K-9 trainers. Since its inception, we have trained over 600 dogs and helped them find permanent homes.
During our 10-12 Week Program, inmates are partner with our rescued dogs to teach basic commands, behavior, and socialization. Over these ten weeks, inmates train their K-9 partners on basic obedience. Upon graduation, the dogs are highly adaptable and possess the following obedience skills:
In addition to training, each dogs receives:Â
Cell Dogs are available for adoption through Gulf Coast Humane Society, Lee County Domestic Animal Services and the Cape Coral Animal Shelter. We encourage you to visit their websites for a listing of available Cell Dogs graduates.
