Since June of 2007 stray dogs in need of homes from Lassen County have been getting a second chance to find their forever family. All of these canines seeking companionship spend time in the Lassen County Animal Shelter waiting to be adopted to no avail. Many have waited so long that they are, reluctantly considered for euthanasia before entering the compassionate program known as Pups On Parole(POP).

   Pups On Parole gives these dogs a boost by making them more adoptable. Each pooch is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and tested for deadly heart worms covering all the initial veterinarian services necessary when acquiring a new pet. 

Dedicated volunteers transport these parolee pooches to Lassen Veterinary Clinic,Thompson Peak Veterinary Clinic, Boyd Taylor Veterinary Practice, Nelson Veterinary Services or Chester Veterinary Clinic where they get a professional once over, often at a discounted fee thanks to the kind hearts of these local vets. Pups on Parole Coordinator Vicky Reinsel  always welcomes new volunteers and is very thankful to the entire network of dog lovers that allow Pups On Parole to exist.

   After their medical needs are addressed  the parolee pups are taken to the California Correctional Center Fire House where POP Liaison Officer Rikki Meier assigns each pup two inmate firefighter trainers. With many hours of time, love and attention these dedicated trainers socialize each dog preparing them for family life. Seven dogs at a time are allowed in the program where they learn these most important social skills interacting with each other and the crew at the Fire House. Pups On Parole graduates are prepared to be the perfect pet for someone. Basic obedience skills, successful house training and excellent social skills are all part of the training offered in the program. Each prospective pet learns at their own pace and goes directly to their forever home from the firehouse upon graduation.

If you would like to adopt a pup on parole or become a volunteer call 530-251-7135. Photos of graduates available for adoption can be viewed online at www.petfinder.com/member/us/ca/susanville/lassen-humane-society-ca234/, using area code 96130. All adoptions require application approval and a $200 adoption fee applies.