Captain Thomas Weaver (Retired 09/2007) and Lance Raiche implemented the Cell Dog program after watching a television show about dog programs with inmates. A few months later six dogs entered the program on October 4, 2004. Since then over 600 dogs have been trained and found homes.

The dog training program teaches inmates how to train dogs in basic obedience through a 10-week course. Upon graduation, the dogs are highly adoptable and possess obedience skills such as:

•  House trained
•  Loose leash walking
•  Sit
•  Lay down
•  Stay 
•  Come when called and heel. 
•  Crate trained

THE BENEFITS FOR THE COMMUNITY

– Lowers rate of euthanasia in Lee County’s animal shelters
– Lowers recidivism and cost to “tax payer”
– Lowers cost for animal control
– Provides well trained dogs for adoption
– Provides more productive members of society

All Cell Dogs are available for an adoption fee through Lee County Domestic Animal Services. In addition to the 8 to 12 weeks of training each dog has received, the adoption fee includes:

– Spay or neuter surgery
– All vaccinations appropriate for the dog’s age, including rabies
– Worming treatment
– Flea treatment
– Heartworm test
– Lee County pet license
– AVID Microchip ID

To learn more about the adoption process contact: 

Lee County Domestic Animal Services at (239) 533-7387