The Doghouse

The Doghouse is a unique partnership between LAPS and the Correctional Services of Canada (CSC). The program takes place in Abbotsford at the Fraser Valley Institution, a federal prison for women.  Inmate participants take part in an employment training program where they learn industry skill such as how to handle, train and groom dogs. Through this they acquire both industry-specific and general employment skills along with certificates in Canine Fist-Aid, Groomer’s Aid, Professional Dog Training and Kennel Attendant Levels 1 & 2. The program provides a therapeutic opportunity for the participants to develop skill and friendships in a healthy and respectful environment. This smart enterprise not only earns enough revenue to fund itself, it also generates extra that is used to directly support the in house adoption program at LAPS.

More than 150 female inmates have worked in the Doghouse program since the project’s inception in 2006. Women who are eligible can volunteer or do work experience placements at the Patti Dale Animal Shelter. Many of the women who’ve gone through the program continue to work with dogs after completing their time at the institution. We believe this program can be a catalyst for change in the people who participate. It can give participants the skills, confidence and knowledge to pursue a career that they love.

In addition to taking on dogs from the Patti Dale Animal Shelter, the Doghouse also serves as a boarding and training facility for the public as well. As a small kennel, the Doghouse program participants are able to provide more exercise time and more one-on-one interaction with the animals. Dogs are free to romp and play in fenced areas, hang out with staff, play ball or explore the country smells. This program also provides an option for dogs to go home with one of the women participating in the kennel program. This allows the dogs to stay in a low stress, home-like environment during their stay.