Exploring Animal-Assisted Therapy in Correctional Facilities

October 14, 2025 - 01:10

An insightful educational session, “Parenting Prisons and Pups,” was held recently, focusing on the integration of Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) within the correctional system. The event highlighted the positive impact of AAT on incarcerated individuals, showcasing how interactions with animals can foster emotional healing and rehabilitation.

Dr. Kimberly Collica-Cox, a distinguished professor in Criminal Justice and the Director of Jail-Based Services, led the discussion. She emphasized the therapeutic benefits that animals can provide to those in correctional facilities. Through AAT, inmates can develop essential life skills, improve their mental health, and enhance their overall well-being.

The session aimed to educate students about innovative approaches to rehabilitation, illustrating how AAT can serve as a valuable tool in the criminal justice system. Attendees left with a greater understanding of the potential for animals to aid in the reintegration of incarcerated individuals into society, promoting a more humane and effective correctional environment.