It pays to train a rescue dog. But not much!

To the state’s credit, there are some excellent dog training programs in the Michigan prison system. 24 Michigan prisons are approved to have some type of dog program. Perhaps one of the most unique is the Dawgz Adapt Program at the Alger Correctional Facility in the U.P. 

Working with the Delta County Animal Shelter in Escanaba, these prisoners take in and care for dogs that have been abused, neglected, abandoned, starved and even left for dead. It’s a huge challenge, but the guys take great pride in their work. They nurse the animals back to health, along with a lot of rehabilitation and reconditioning so that they can be adopted into a forever home someday. 

Not only do they train these canines, but they clean up their messes, potty-train them, trim their nails, and leaf through books to handle medical issues. 

The 10 inmates in this unit have completed an 8-week training class. In addition, they receive in-service training from outside professionals, as well as from books and videos. They work in 2-man teams, and it’s a 24/7 detail. 

For this incredible work they have been getting paid $2.65 a day. Not an hour, a day! That boils down to 11-cents an hour. But here’s the rub. The state claims their pay scale was wrong, and has been since 2012, and it must be corrected. SO, now their wages are being cut to $1.54 a day. That means these amazing dog trainers will be getting paid 6-cents an hour! 

Is that really fair? It’s not the fault of these guys, as well as dog trainers in the other 23 prisons, that a mistake was made on the wage rate ten years ago.

As these trainers explain it to HFP, for some of these dogs, it’s their last chance before possibly being put down. And for the men who are in the program, they not only learn a skilled trade but, let’s face it...it’s rehabilitation for them, too! 

Matt has always contended that if we were trying to rescue dogs instead of prisoners, we’d be more popular. Well, this time, we’re trying to do both. 

With a $2-billion-per-year budget, and the prison population decreasing, the state can’t pay these dog trainers $2.65 a day? 

Give me a break!



Comments

Louise Reichert said…
My dog came from Dawgz Adapt in Munising. He is a great little walker, gives me all the love and attention I can stand. He has learned numerous commands and loves to show off. I have spoiled him and he now has some issues like being a VERY finicky eater, but he is a great dog and I have a great deal of respect for the prisoner(s) who trained him. The training gives back to prisoners a chunk of love and value they may never have known pre-prison. When you attempt to train a dog yourself, you recognize the effort that goes into it. MDOC needs to live up to their name (Dept. of CORRECTION) and value those who have worked hard to change their own lives. Prison pay is paltry enough. Surely, MDOC can afford a few dollars and cents toward making their title BELIEVABLE. Having been a state worker, heaven knows there is much wasted from day to day.
March 3, 2022 at 4:11 PM
Painting contractors in coimbatore said…
Dog Training in chennai is not just about sit commands and leash manners; it's about creating a holistic environment where dogs learn essential life skills. From socialization to agility, from obedience to advanced tricks, these trainers delve deep into the psyche of dogs, understanding their needs and fears, and addressing them with utmost care and understanding.So, if you're in Chennai and seeking more than just dog training, but a transformative experience for both you and your dog https://sugusdogartistry.com/
October 31, 2023 at 7:26 AM
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