About us
Together, they rescue each other
Since 2010
Giving People and Dogs a fresh start
Founded in 2010, New Leash on Life USA rescues at-risk dogs to work with justice-involved individuals in both prison and community settings to create fresh starts.
Leveraging the powerful bond between humans and dogs, our unique model supports a vulnerable population of underserved people and canines at risk of euthanization.
Together, they rescue each other.
Our Programs
How we work
New Leash on Life USA works in close collaboration with local and state correctional institutions and community stakeholders to implement our programs collaboratively, efficiently, and effectively.
The Key
The key to our model’s success is a commitment to each participant and dog’s success through customized, wraparound services. Furthermore, to ensure that we create an environment of understanding and respect, our staff and volunteers include people with lived experience.
Prison Reentry Program
Our signature program delivers life skills and career readiness workshops to incarcerated individuals. The animal-assisted therapy model creates a strong human-animal bond that increases empathy, self-esteem, social confidence, and their belief in self-change. Upon graduation, our participants are released on early parole, complete a paid internship, and receive individualized case management.
YARD Program
Our Young Adult Reentry/Diversion (YARD) program serves young adults, aged 18-24, who are eligible for early parole or are experiencing their first encounter with the criminal justice system. Our participants grow, learn, and succeed through group workshops, individualized case management, and paid internships/training, proving that providing young adults with an alternative to incarceration leads to life-changing results.