TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Continuing our coverage of a “Leash on Life” program that involved four dogs at the Terre Haute Humane Society. Those dogs have since graduated from the program and are ready to take the K-9 Good Citizenship test.
The program is an effort between the Terre Haute Humane Society and the Terre Haute Federal Penitentiary. It is designed to allow dogs to live with and be trained by incarcerated individuals.
Volunteer Coordinator Maggie Wheeler said this is a great opportunity to help the dogs.
“They’re great dogs. The advantage of those dogs they’ve been trained to basically behave in public and be good citizens. So, they’re trained to read your cues and not respond negatively if you’re not responding negatively to that situation,” she said.
This program also helps the dogs become more adoptable to help with overcrowding. The shelter is currently well above capacity with over 400 animals. They currently have 218 dogs and 197 cats. Their capacity limit is around 100 animals.
Because of this, the shelter has to house the animals in other areas, like outdoor cages and spare rooms. Wheeler said there are plenty of ways the community can help.
“Spay and neutering your animals if you can do it. If you’re not ready to commit to a full-time ownership, foster. You know short-term fosters at least till we can make space in the building,” she said.
To see what animals are available for adoption, to make a donation, or general information, you can visit their website.
