The Puppies on the Block program is a transformative initiative that partners Paws Crossed Animal Rescue, Pace University, and the Westchester County Department of Correction to provide second chances for both rescue dogs and individuals who are incarcerated. This unique collaboration is a powerful partnership between animal welfare groups, a university, and a leading correctional facility aiming to foster rehabilitation and community enrichment.

 

Through this program, individuals who are incarcerated at the Westchester County Department of Correction are given the opportunity to train, socialize and foster rescue puppies from Paws Crossed Animal Rescue. Under professional guidance, they teach the dogs basic obedience and social skills. This process not only prepares the dogs for their forever homes but also instills responsibility, empathy, and valuable skills in the trainers.

 

Pace University plays a crucial role in the program, contributing research, student involvement, and educational support to study the program’s impact on rehabilitation and reentry success. The partnership highlights the profound benefits of animal-assisted programs in correctional settings, promoting personal growth, emotional well-being, and a positive connection between participants and the community.

 

Together, these organizations work toward a shared goal: transforming lives—both human and canine—through compassion, training, and second chances.