Orange County, Calif., April 21, 2025 – If you were to visit a room at the Orange County Probation Department’s (OC Probation) Juvenile Hall, you’d likely come across something unexpected — a photograph of a dog, side by side with the youth. It’s a small, yet powerful reminder of the unique bond they share, one that stands out in a place where many misperceive as a place where hope and connection can be out of reach. 

For the past 15 years, Cell Dogs, Inc. (Cell Dogs), has worked in partnership with the OC Probation to make a positive impact in the lives of youth at OC Probation’s Juvenile Hall. 

The partnership gives system-impacted youth the opportunity to train a dog in obedience and discipline over a period of 12 weeks. In the first four weeks, the youth learn how to train the dogs, and for the next eight weeks, they put their knowledge into practice, working closely with the animals on a variety of commands and tricks. Many of these dogs have come from backgrounds of abuse or neglect. Some dogs have demonstrated exceptional growth in their skills and training and could even be selected for service dog training to continue their journey of helping others. 

Deputy Probation Correctional Officer (DPCO) Kari Willardson, who works directly in unit with the youth and the dogs, remarked,

“Our youth assume full responsibility for the care and wellbeing of these dogs and in doing so they have grown in their confidence, their ability to work together. Most importantly, I believe, is the youth’s growth in becoming more compassionate and patient individuals.” 

Finally, the air at graduation becomes thick with emotion as youth complete the final step in their 12-week journey with their dog. It’s not just a general showcase of skills and commands training. The ceremony is rooted in the recognition of the hard work and dedication that both the dogs and the youth have chosen to grow through. 

DPCO Willardson also noted,

“My personal favorite is to watch as the youth master the tricks they are teaching their dogs, which shows how special the bond between youth and dog is.” 

Youth end the graduation with the “leash exchange,” a symbolic and deeply emotional moment where the youth pass the leash to the new adoptive families. It is a poignant moment of self-reflection, as youth come to understand one of the key lessons of life: the importance of letting go. Although it may be the end of training cycle, it signifies a new beginning in the life of both the youth and dog alike. 

In the latest cohort, youth and staff alike celebrated the successful graduation of three remarkable dogs—Sandy, Noodle, and Chewie/Oliver—who have been under the training of youth at OC Probation’s Juvenile Hall. 

Supervising Probation Correctional Officer (SPCO) Andre Garcia expressed,

“The Cell Dogs Program provides a sense of responsibility and accountability for the incarcerated youth who have the opportunity to train the dogs. You see the pride the youth have in their accomplishments.” 

There are numerous benefits to the OC Probation and Cell Dogs partnership. Youth develop empathy and gain insight into the importance of compassion for all living beings. Youth also develop accountability and responsibility by training their assigned dog in a consistent manner. Youth can work as a team with both their dog and their peers, which encourages communication, trust, and cooperation—skills that are vital for personal growth and future success. 

SPCO Garcia continued,

“I can’t say enough about what Cell Dogs does for all those who participate in the program. They teach each of these youth valuable lessons that they can take with them out in the world once they are released.”

“Although we are all sad after a group of dogs has graduated and left to their forever homes, we know Cell Dogs will be back with a new set of pups for us to build more great memories”. 

Every youth walks away with a renewed sense of purpose, which adds to the growing legacy of the partnership between OC Probation and Cell Dogs. It is a legacy of love, healing, and transformation, which proves that with a little help and a lot of heart, there is a brighter future ahead.