Graduation day took on a special meaning, with the completion of the most recent dog training class at the Nebraska State Penitentiary. Included in the canine/trainer teams was Hero and Robert Dunkin.

Hero was one of four dogs in the Second Chance Pups program. He was trained in preparation to be placed with the family of fallen Lincoln Police officer Mario Herrera.

Second Chance Pups is a program where otherwise overlooked dogs from local shelters are carefully matched with a volunteer inmate program participants, who train the dogs in basic obedience while providing human socialization and interaction with other dogs.

Dunkin, an inmate volunteer, has been with the program since 2016 and has trained around 18 dogs. This time, Dunkin completed training with Hero. “It’s helpful to have a companion,” said Dunkin. “This program brings joy to everyone knowing they have a rescue dog who needs a good home, as well as giving the dogs a second chance.”

Inmate volunteer, Thomas Cole, has been with the program since 2005 and completed training with his 76th dog, Milo. “It’s hard to let them go, but it’s good to know that they’re going to a loving home who needs them,” said Cole. “It feels good to do something positive to help society. It gives us the responsibility to do something good, as well as give the dogs a second chance at life.”

Normally, outside volunteers and those adopting the dogs can attend graduation, but with COVID-19 restrictions, these volunteers and the Herrera family were able to attend the April 9 ceremony virtually.

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