Saving Dogs. Saving Ourselves.
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Saving Dogs. Saving Ourselves. |
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"When I awaken in the morning, I see this
wonderful dog that has not only been given a second chance, but has
given me a second chance. I cry. This dog is my companion -
unconditionally. She is my silent source of compassion, understanding
and love. She is my opportunity to make a difference. To increase her
knowledge and change her outlook on life. So much that her new owner
cannot be without her unconditional companionship, compassion,
understanding and love."
"I'd like to say this
program is all about the dogs, but truly it's more about humanity. My
humanity. I'm in prison because I made a mistake. Not because I am a bad
person. The best things about me are that I'm loving, compassionate and
giving, which are all things that are frowned upon in prison. As
prisoners we are cut off from touching, hugging, and caring for those
around us. The world we live in here is one of emotional detachment and
guardedness. This leaves me grieving the loss of the human side of
myself that I don't want to lose. Having this program has made me feel
human again. I can love and be loved, hug and be hugged." "There is a lot of
responsibility taking a dog into this type of situation. Lots of ups and
some downs, but we are learning how to handle problems that arise in
positive ways. We have a connection with these dogs more than the
outside people could know. We really need each other."
"The F.I.D.O. program has been an amazing
experience for me. It has made my time here worthwhile. I have grown as
a person and I've been given a skill that I can take with me. The
program means to me hope, love and a promise for a better future. These
dogs are a lot like us in a sense. They have been given a second chance
and thru us they have learned skills that will enhance their quality of
life. We put a lot of love into these dogs. Not only do we get to help
change their lives, but we are able to touch the lives of the people who
encounter these dogs after they complete the program." "I believe this program has given me
life. When I think F.I.D.O. I think integrity, second chances, a reason
to be. Saving a dog who has been discarded for whatever reason just as I
was for my wrongs. My dog and I are both learning together how to live a
life filled with love and hope. Knowing this great animal was going to
be put down and is such an awesome dog and to know we saved him. I can't
find words to explain it. He is getting a second chance at life, just as
I am. Being a part of this program is a 24-hour commitment. My partner
and I have to shape and mold our dog. This is teaching me patience and
understanding.
Which is going to be a big part of my recovery. This program is also
proving to me that I am good at something. I am not worthless. I am
growing within myself because of F.I.D.O. My family is seeing the change
in me as well."
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" Upon the dogs' arrival, I
sense an initial great sense of relief. as the dog is freed form the
bars of the shelter into the arms of the caged inmate. From that first
embrace, to the placing of the leash into the expectant hands of the new
human companion, a wonderful transformation takes place. F.I.D.O. is
blessed with volunteer trainers who teach us to be keen observers of
subtle canine body language alerting our senses to the individual dog's
special needs. In addition to increasing our sensitivity, we train in
positive, reward based methods which gently and kindly produces
outstanding canine citizens. And because we work with a human partner
and the larger group of inmates participating in the program, we must
communicate with one another, respect differences and function well as a
team..." "The greatest lesson I have learned from my mistakes, resulting
in imprisonment, is we humans are unpredictable - I include myself in
that assessment. A dog, however, can be counted on for unconditional
love and loyalty, no matter my emotional state. What a gift! God is in
Geiger in the form of a dog." ~Inmate Trainer "I've always loved
animals and have been a pet owner all my life. I have respect for all
types of big game as my roots are from Montana. Training a dog is a
simple concept, but is one I never embraced. Just making sure your dog
has the basic commands makes him/her a better pet. Your pet is always
there to greet you and listen. The best reward of all is that you have
saved this beautiful animal and restored him to a loving pet for a
family to love." The F.I.D.O. program means to me a second
chance for love and a family for excellent dogs. And another chance for
love and positive experiences in a negative situation in our lives. That
makes life look more positive and gives us more self worth. "When I think about what the FIDO program
means to me, I find it miniscule in comparison to what it means to the
lives of both the dogs we save and the lives of the families they are
adopted in to. Knowing that I can make such a positive difference even
when I am at the darkest point in my life. As it is now, I am helpless,
as far as helping my own family deal with my absence. Still I know that
I am proud and that they (my family) are comforted to know that I am
involved in such a heart warming program. Some of us come from harder
lifestyles. But, these animals bring out the gentler and more
compassionate sides in us. With the FIDO program, I have discovered a
new confidence. Just like us, these amazing dogs are capable of becoming
part of a wonderful family. I believe in them. And somehow, you can
tell, that they too believe in us. With each new dog, I see a new chance
for success. Not only in their ability to learn, but in my ability to
train and understand. We too are growing in patience, love and
determination. We have new goals. New mind sets. I believe that, like
us, our FIDO dogs dream too, of one day being home with their own
family."
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| 3507 S. Spotted Road, Spokane, WA 99204 Phone: 509 477-1580 email: klytle@spokanecounty.org |
