Commissioner's update for offenders and their families: September 16, 2024
This is Gordon. He is an English bulldog and a frequent visitor at the SIU at Stony Mountain Institution in Manitoba. He is one of a number of dogs in the pet therapy program introduced by the Winnipeg Humane Society just over a year ago.
Incarceration can be difficult and therapy with animals can be effective in helping you cope with trauma and can have many benefits towards a positive rehabilitation journey. When inmates work with animals, our staff have seen remarkable improvements in mental and emotional health.
The pet therapy program is overseen by Joshawa Elsner, who is an Acting Social Programs Officer. Joshawa is struck by the impact the impact of the program on inmates’ daily lives as pets provide unconditional support and acceptance.
“These dogs and their owners have made inmates feel loved and affirmed despite their past actions,” Joshawa says.
Although this pet therapy program is unique to the Stony Mountain Institution Structured Intervention Unit, dogs are often part of restorative justice opportunities, and other programs provided by our volunteers. We also offer opportunities to work with farm animals, through CORCAN, at some institutions. Please speak to your social programs officer to see if there are similar opportunities or pet therapy programs available to you.
“An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.” - Martin Buber
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