Echo Glen is a coeducational juvenile correctional program for adolescents between the ages of 11-20. Echo Glen serves the youngest male offenders and females with special needs. The Canine Connections Program continues to be a strong therapeutic component at Echo Glen. We pair residents at Echo Glen Children’s Center (at risk youth) with unwanted dogs, many on doggie death row, giving both dog and student a second chance. We give them an opportunity to experience responsibility, patience and conflict resolution skills, promoting emotional development. We provide skill building, educational, and vocational opportunities in kennel operations, grooming, vet tech. and training. Our residents continue to compare the dogs to their life–unwanted, neglected, abused and locked-up but involved in training and treatment. We consistently observe the youth transferring the cognitive behavioral skills taught to them by their counselors to their work with the dog. The student handlers are the dogs counselors. They write treatment reports and plans. It is our belief that this process only enhances the youths commitment to change. Participants learn to utilize behavioral therapy methods of positive reinforcement in shaping their dogs behavior. Canine Connections is a part of the Snohomish County 4-H dog program and is a part of the Issaquah School district. Students maintain 4-H journals and participate in the county dog program requirements. Prior to adoption, handler and dogs complete a basic Obedience Test. Dogs are typically maintained in the program for 7-8 weeks. After this intense interaction with the student trainer, the dogs are “paroled” to permanent adoptive homes. The student/trainer conducts the exit interview with the new adoptive family, explaining the dogs background, training methods and offers advice in caring for the dog. The student trainer experiences a sense of accomplishment in a job well done. This interview helps in the “letting go” process for the handler. Research has shown that the bond between an animal and a human can have significant lifelong benefits for both. This program is a Win-Win for both students and dogs. The Canine Connections Program is committed to fostering this bond and achieving lifelong benefits for the juvenile offenders and dogs in their care. Canine Connections is a non profit agency relying on grants and private donations.
Canine connections 