At the Affinity Foundation, we have run dog-assisted therapy programmes in prisons since 2008, working in 14 Spanish prisons, benefiting nearly 1,000 inmates. Antonio was one of these inmates. He participated in the programme for over 7 years during which time he cared for and lived with Princess and Rey, two therapy dogs who changed his life.

Thanks to a study by the UAB’s Affinity Foundation Chair for Animals and Health and the Spanish prison service, we have proven that animal-assisted therapies are as effective as psychological therapy or other group therapies in the prison context.

In these therapies, inmates are given responsibility for the dogs’ care, feeding, hygiene, exercise and walks, with the support of trainers, psychologists and the prisons’ specialist staff. Guided interaction with dogs has demonstrated its effectiveness in improving relationships between inmates, reducing anxiety, contributing to emotional stability, improving their adaptation to the environment and enhancing participation in other activities.

Antonio’s case is a good example, as after many years in prison, his life changed thanks to his participation in the therapy programme and to the emotional bond he formed with the animals and the team of people behind them. Ana is one of these people, a member of the prison’s team of professionals, whom Antonio always thanks for believing in him.