Inmates teach young dogs new tricks

SYDNEY - Two dogs were released from a New South Wales jail yesterday where they spent 15 months learning a thing or two from young offenders.

Frankie and Baxter graduated as assistance dogs following their training stint at the Frank Baxter Juvenile Justice Centre at Kariong.

Ten detainees taught the Labrador pups new skills needed for their role in the outside world - helping people with physical disabilities.

Minister for Juvenile Justice Graham West says the programme, Justice Pups, has proven to be a "win-win".

"Young offenders develop skills that assist in their rehabilitation, the puppies become assistance dogs, and the recipients - people with disabilities - gain much needed assistance and companionship."

It also helped detainees, young males aged between 16 and 21, improve their self esteem and develop a sense of responsibility, West said.

The dogs, now aged 18 months, will undergo six months of further, intensive training before they begin working.

The programme is a partnership between the NSW Government and Assistance Dogs Australia.

- AAP