An unbreakable bond
Below is a letter written by a prisoner involved in the Leader Dogs for the Blind Prison Puppies program. In the program, seven-week-old puppies are brought to correctional facilities to be raised by prisoner handlers for 12 to 15 months. Prisoner handlers also teach the dogs basic obedience and socialization before they receive guide dog training.

“First I would like to thank the wonderful people at Leader Dog for giving me the opportunity to participate in the program. I came to prison bitter, sad, lonely and upset with myself. I also put up a tall brick wall and became anti-social with a tight lip, until I was introduced to Leader dog by my ARUS counselor. I took on the responsibility of caring for this little beautiful yellow lab that opened up my heart with joy. I feel like I was human again. I was getting up early every day because I have this little breathing puppy with big brown eyes looking up to me for everything, food, water, friend, handler, grooming, encouragement, training, shelter, patience and love. It was an honor to raise Xavier and help train him to become the best leader dog for someone. Everyday Xavier brightened up my day and made me smile, kept me cheerful and happy, and motivated to work with him. This made me very happy. In return, I learned how to be polite and patient to other inmates and not walk around looking mad with a tight lip. Having Xavier around made it easy for me to talk to other inmates and took me away from my troubles and pain, up lifted my spirit and allowed me to shine and brighten up someone’s day other than myself.
Before leader dog came into my life I had a road block up that lead to a dead end, I didn’t know where to go; being a leader dog handler made me smile with excitement and also gave me a sense of direction. I turned on my GPS -praying to God and becoming a better person while I sat in prison. I traveled down this new road which gave me Faith, Hope, and Love. It is truly amazing that this little puppy saw the best in me when everybody else around me only saw the worst in me and for that I am grateful.

I now wake up with pride to be the best person I can be. Also become a helping hand to other people you never know what the future holds. I might have someone in my family or a friend that goes blind and needs to find help. I have new information and a good source called Leader Dogs for the Blind to run to for help. Xavier gave me the ability to think positive in any situation and keep my inner freedom. Xavier will always put a smile on a person’s face without saying a word and to me that is priceless. I am so happy I had the chance to raise and bond with Xavier.”
Thank you,
Eric McGee
To learn more about this program visit LeaderDog.org
