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Dogs get second chance

Jail inmates might understand better than anyone what it's like to need a second chance, which could be why a program pairing dogs in need of training and socialization with San Mateo County jail inmates has been such a success.

Five dogs recently graduated from the TAILS program after eight weeks of intensive work with inmates at the Redwood City jail, according to Peninsula Humane Society spokesman Scott Delucchi.

TAILS, which stands for Transitioning Animals Into Loving Situations, is a partnership between the humane society and the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office. Since July 2009, the program has helped 42 dogs with behavioral issues and limited adoption potential find new homes.

Inmates participating in the program take weekly formal training classes and are responsible for the dogs' exercise, socialization, grooming, feeding and overall care.

Dogs get off-leash play time, group interactions with the other dogs in the program, individual work on obedience training, and plenty of socialization with inmates.

The recent graduates included three Chihuahuas, a Chihuahua-pit bull mix, and a mixed breed male that resembles a border collie.

"Our biggest challenge is finding new, permanent homes as good as the one these dogs have enjoyed the past eight weeks," Mr. Delucchi said. "Whoever adopts a TAILS dog will be bringing a real treasure into their home and life."

Anyone interested in adopting a TAILS graduate should contact Maria Eguren at meguren@peninsulahumanesociety.org or call (650) 340-7022, ext. 306.

The next TAILS class will be selected with a few weeks, Mr. Delucchi said.

— Bay City News Service