The New Leash on Life (NLOL) Program, which was launched February 28, is the culmination of a team effort that took nearly two years to develop. It also represents a significant joint project by two community non-profits with a common mission – to save animals from destruction. This team has worked tenaciously over this period of time to get this Program launched in cooperation with prison officials at the Spindale Correctional Facility. The Program was planned and built from the ground up based on a model pilot program at the Marion Correctional Facility in Marion, N. C. This Program meets the prison requirements of the state board in Raleigh, including kennel specifications and design.

The kennel, which was constructed by inmates under the supervision of Tim Greene, far exceeds the standards and has itself become a model facility for the other programs that are expected to develop around the state. Greene secured construction material and animal care supplies from community business sponsors and private financial contributors.

Cheri McAllister and Myra Crabtree, the trainers for the program, spent many months preparing a training outline, gathering supplies, evaluating dogs and working with prison staff. The New Leash Program is slated to run continuously for 8 weeks at a time.

Both women also teach low-cost obedience training classes to community dog owners at the National Guard Armory. The proceeds are donated to RCAPA for its Spay/Neuter and
 other Programs.

Micaela Cantrell, a student at Isothermal Community College, created several original promotional art materials and logos for both the New Beginnings Kennel at the Correctional Facility and for RCAPA. She also creates flyers, announcements, and brochures as needed.

The New Leash on Life Program instills a sense of pride, well-being and self esteem in the prisoners involved in the program and allows them to learn a marketable skill. It also improves their interpersonal skills, teaching them patience and compassion. It has already changed the environment at the Correctional Facility in many positive ways. The animals, which are carefully screened and selected from the Rutherford County Animal Control Facility , are given a New Leash on Life because they were headed for destruction. The Program also gives the prison handlers a new purpose – it is a win/win project for all involved.

The next graduation date will be announced shortly and applications are already being accepted for new adoptive homes for these dogs. If you are interested in adopting one of these wonderful dogs, you may send inquiries to Cyndy Ebert, NLOL Trainer at newleash@blueridge.net.