A beacon of light in the dark nightmare that is the American prison system, Puppies Behind Bars, featuring feisty dog trainer Gloria Gilbert Stoga, is a remarkable program that sees New York inmates incarcerated for violent crime raise and train service dogs. Living with the puppies 24/7 over two or more years, the inmates teach the dogs 90+ commands, after which the canines go on to help other people needing a second chance: war veterans with PTSD. Not all men, nor all dogs, are successful – and this humane film doesn't gloss that over. Prison Dogs is a story of love, loss, redemption, strength, fear and dedication.
"Prison Dogs is a must-see story of real world redemption." –James Shotwell, Substream Magazine
"Ultimately, the film offers a humanist look at people seeking something that escapes most of us: transformation." –Craig Takeuchi, The Georgia Straight
Premiere – Tribeca Film Festival, 2016
The film screening will be followed by a Skype Q&A session with producer Jennifer Mirsky.
Retired paramedic Julie Jolicoeur will attend in person with her service dog, Dillon, who was trained at an American penitentiary.
