Inmate-trained dog graduates

The country's first mobility dog to be trained by a prison inmate has graduated, the Department of Corrections says.

Golden retriever Echo was trained by an Auckland women's prison inmate under the Puppies in Prisons scheme launched in July last year.

The programme, based on schemes in Britain and the United States, helped to cut down waiting times for mobility dogs, which were typically four to five years.

Echo would now undergo advanced training, Mobility Assistance Dogs Trust spokeswoman Jody Hogan said.

The programme also benefited the trainers, with overseas research showing prisoners who trained dogs were less likely to reoffend.

Corrections policy adviser Amanda Jones said prison staff had seen positive changes in the inmates, who had "all remained incident and drug free during the programme".

Puppies in Prison may open the door to more animal-based programmes in the future, she said.

Two more puppies would graduate in November, and Echo's prison handler was training the programme's newest puppy.

- NZPA