A new programme is pairing inmates and unwanted domestic animals in an initiative from the Seychelles Prison Service and the Seychelles Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA).
The programme is designed to address the growing problem of stray dogs and it will educate the prison staff and inmates on how to give proper care to pets.
Montagne Posee, an uphill location towards the western part on the main island Mahe, is a place where people release unwanted cats and dogs. The area also houses the Seychelles’ main prison. Through the agreement, the prison services and the society will jointly address the stray population in the prison area. These animals will be sterilised and given proper care.
“We know the positive effects dogs can have when they are partnered up with an inmate who has been selected to take care of that dog,” said Raymond St. Ange, the superintendent at the prison.
At the moment there are over 30 dogs on the prison premises. Inmates will be responsible for feeding, exercising and cleaning the animals. They will also have to keep the kennels clean.