Bringing Joy to Rikers Island: How Dogs Transform Lives in Unexpected Places

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I’ve spent my career helping people build better relationships with their dogs, but some of the most meaningful work I do happens outside of training sessions—at Rikers Island. Since 2018, I’ve been volunteering there, bringing therapy dogs to interact with the incarcerated population. Originally, I was asked to teach the inmates how to train dogs, but over time, the program evolved. It became clear that simply being with a dog—feeling their warmth, their unconditional love—was just as impactful as structured training. And so, my role shifted from instructor to provider of a much-needed emotional escape.

Why Bring Dogs to Rikers?

Prisons are stressful, isolating environments, and research backs up what I see firsthand—dogs can make a real difference. Studies show that animal-assisted therapy reduces anxiety, depression, and stress while improving emotional regulation. More than that, dogs help build trust and social skills, providing a judgment-free space to practice patience, communication, and empathy. Programs like this have even been linked to lower recidivism rates—meaning that participants are less likely to reoffend after release.

Kyrie: The Dog Who Was Born for This

Over the years, I’ve brought a few different dogs into Rikers, but none have been quite like Kyrie, an eight-year-old standard poodle. She was rescued as an adult, but her calm nature and deep love for people made her a perfect therapy dog. She isn’t fazed by loud noises or chaotic environments, and she naturally gravitates toward people who need her most.

At first, she was calm and collected on our visits, greeting everyone and curling up at their feet. But by our third trip, something changed—she started whining in the car as we approached the facility, practically vibrating with excitement. It hit me: she knew exactly where we were going and couldn’t wait to get inside. Now, every time we head to Rikers, she’s amped up until we walk through those doors. And once she’s inside, she gets right to work, leaning into people for affection, lying down next to them, and offering silent, unwavering support.

The responses we get are incredible. People who have been withdrawn or guarded will sit down on the floor and let Kyrie lean against them. Others light up when they see her, reminiscing about dogs they had as kids or simply enjoying the rare opportunity to connect with another living being. The room changes when she’s there—you can feel the tension lift, if only for a little while.

Why This Matters—And What It Says About Training

This work at Rikers is a reminder of something I see every day in training sessions: dogs have a way of reaching people in ways that humans sometimes can’t. Whether it’s an inmate in a high-security prison, a child struggling with anxiety, or a rescue dog learning to trust again, the bond between dogs and humans is incredibly powerful.

At Shelby Semel Dog Training, everything we do is rooted in that same philosophy. Training isn’t just about teaching commands—it’s about strengthening relationships, building trust, and creating an environment where both dogs and humans can thrive. Whether you’re looking to build confidence in a nervous rescue, improve socialization skills, or deepen your dog’s trust in you, the right training approach makes all the difference.

Building a Stronger Relationship with Your Dog

Every dog has the potential to be a source of comfort, confidence, and joy. Whether they’re providing therapy in a prison or simply being a great companion at home, the foundation of that relationship starts with training and structure. If you want to unlock your dog’s full potential, we’re here to help.

At Shelby Semel Dog Training, we offer:

  • Private Training Sessions – One-on-one guidance for behavioral challenges and training goals.

  • Group Classes – Socialization and foundational skills in a structured setting.

  • Puppy Training – The crucial first steps for raising a confident, well-mannered dog.

  • Behavioral Consultations – Addressing reactivity, anxiety, and other behavioral concerns.

Experience the Power of Training

Dogs have an incredible ability to change lives. Whether they’re working as therapy dogs, helping rehabilitate people in tough situations, or just bringing joy to their families, their impact is undeniable. If you’re ready to build a stronger relationship with your dog and tap into their full potential, I’d love to help.