Creating hope and opportunity for incarcerated people and pets so both may find a path home.
Marley’s Mutts® partners with California state prisons to select 24-30 incarcerated individuals and 8-10 at-risk shelter dogs for each prison program cycle. Interested candidates submit an application for the program, write an essay and undergo an interview. The participants chosen for the program submit to a 14 week course, that involves very challenging blocks of course work which involve weekly homework assignments and personal goals.
At Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue, we have always believed in the power of “rescue dogs rescuing people.” It is more than a slogan — it is the heartbeat of our mission and the driving force behind one of our most transformative programs, Pawsitive Change.
Pawsitive Change was built on the belief that redemption and rehabilitation are possible for both dogs and humans. Through this life-changing program, euthanasia-listed dogs are given a second chance at life while incarcerated students are given an opportunity to rediscover purpose, empathy, accountability, and hope. Together, they create a bond rooted in healing, trust, and transformation.
Many of the dogs entering the program arrive frightened, abandoned, neglected, or simply out of time. Some have never known stability, patience, or kindness. Inside the program, incarcerated students work closely with these dogs every day, providing structure, training, affection, and rehabilitation. With consistency and compassion, these once-forgotten dogs gain confidence, socialization, and the skills they need to find loving forever homes. But the transformation does not stop with the dogs.
In return, the dogs help rehabilitate the humans caring for them. Through the responsibility of daily training, caregiving, and emotional connection, students begin rebuilding their own sense of self-worth and accountability. They learn patience, compassion, discipline, and hope for the future. Many participants describe the experience as life-changing – a reminder that they are still capable of making a positive impact in the world. That reciprocal healing is the foundation of Pawsitive Change.
To learn more about the Pawsitive Change program please contact: pawsitivechangeprogram@marleysmutts.org
Help Bring Pawsitive Change Back to Wasco State Prison
Today, Marley’s Mutts is committed to re-establishing meaningful programming within the prison system and continuing this mission of rehabilitation, restoration, and second chances. We believe true change happens when communities come together to support programs rooted in compassion and accountability.
The success of Pawsitive Change has always depended on community partnership and the belief that positive change is possible for every dog, every person, and every life touched by this work. Now, we are asking for your support to help us continue that mission. Help Bring Pawsitive Change Back to Wasco State Prison
By supporting Marley’s Mutts and the return of Pawsitive Change, you are helping save dogs from euthanasia while creating opportunities for healing, growth, and rehabilitation inside the prison system. Together, we can continue building a future where second chances are not just possible, they are transformative.
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Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue
1121 West Valley Boulevard, Suite i #140
Tehachapi, CA 93561
(661) 823-4375
Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue
is a 501(c)(3) non-profit
organization. Tax ID: 30-0636031