Quote Originally Posted by rebgirl420

But part of me kind of wonders if someone with a crime really deserves something so great. Prison is supposed to be a punishment. I mean, i'm sure trhe victims of the persons crime or crimes doesn't want this guy/girl having a good time in prison.
What if the inmate was in because of possesion of MJ? Man, I'd love to take care of a dog in prison... I've never been to prison, but I'm sure a couple members of the boards have been there. It relieves stress, and you definitely don't want high levels of stress in prison- higher risks of fights, and even murder of guards or other inmates.

I agree with your point about victims of violent crimes not wanting the inmates to be "having fun," but they've got basketball, TV, rec rooms, and even the internet in a few places; I think having fun in prison despite the fact that they're, well, in prison, is unavoidable with all of the rec programs they have for inmate exercise. I think training the dogs would be fun for the most part, but it also teaches the inmate a sense of responsibility and self control, as well as compassion, that is, if they're able to be rehabilitated.