SEPTEMBER 19, 2025
In April of this year, officers with the Canine Unit at Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center decided to do something a little different. In partnership with Richmond Animal Care and Control, they brought well-mannered (and adorable) puppies from local pet shelters to visit Bon Air residents. Residents named the new program Canine Connections, and it’s no surprise to anyone that the puppies have been a hit.
The Department of Juvenile Justice strives to provide residents with a wide range of innovative programs designed to address the unique needs of juvenile residents. Many residents have a traumatic history, and by introducing puppies into their lives, Canine Connections creates a supportive environment that promotes healing, rehabilitation, and personal growth. The program provides residents with emotional support, a taste of home, and the pure joy of unconditional puppy love. What’s more, these interactions give residents the tools to reduce stress and foster empathy, skills they will need for a successful return to their communities.
It’s easy to see that Canine Connections has residents fully engaged. Residents are joyful when they are with the puppies, and they ask repeatedly for longer, more frequent visits. Residents’ enthusiasm led them to take ownership of the program by naming it and by regularly teaching the puppies obedience skills and tricks. DJJ is now encouraging residents to design a Canine Connections logo.
By fostering these connections between residents, puppies, and the canine officers who bring them, the program helps break down barriers caused by negative experiences. Canine Connections also gives the puppies an opportunity to find new homes. Since the program’s inception, at least three Canine Connections puppies have been adopted after encountering DJJ staff.
Canine Connections is more than just playtime for the residents and puppies. The program improves the well-being of both the residents and animals, and it promotes transformational change in the youth DJJ serves.
