First inmate-trained dog ready for adoption

Panda, an 8-year-old border collie mix, is now available for adoption after a stint at the Travis County Correctional Complex. Panda is the first graduate of Dogs 101, a program that offers inmates the chance to ready dogs from the Austin Animal Center for adoption. “The inmates worked on crate training, leash skills and overall manners with Panda,” said a news release from the Animal Center. “At Panda’s ‘graduation ceremony’ on Monday, the inmates said goodbye and made cards for the dog, who they considered part of their family, and wrote letters to his future adopters.” The program was created following a similar pilot program last year among female inmates, Kittens 101, where three inmates were given a kitten to look after and train.