Dogs on the Inside

• Dogs On The Inside* is a 2014 American documentary film that highlights a rehabilitation program at the North Central Correctional Institution in Gardner, Massachusetts. The initiative pairs prisoner inmates with stray or abused dogs rescued from Southern kill shelters by the nonprofit Don't Throw Us Away. Over an 8- to 10-week period, the prisoners provide basic obedience training and emotional support to the dogs, while Marc Bekoff Ph.D.'s research on animal behavior and psychology underpins the program's effectiveness in rebuilding trust between both parties.

The film follows inmates like Candido Sanchez, who finds inspiration for his own rehabilitation through caring for the dogs. Over three months, the prisoners develop bonds with their canine charges, leading to emotional growth and a renewed sense of purpose. The documentary captures the dogs' journeys from rescue to adoption into loving families, which in turn motivates the inmates to transform their lives.

Directed, edited, and produced by Brean Cunningham and Douglas Seirup—founders of Expect Miracles Productions—with music composed by Sam Gay, *Dogs On The Inside* was released on VOD on February 10, 2015, and on DVD on February 24, 2015. The film received favorable reviews from *The Toronto Star* and *NOW Toronto*, which praised the prisoners' dedication to improving both their own lives and those of the dogs. It also won awards at the Rhode Island International Film Festival and Rockport Film Festival.