Fascinating Facts About Cats at Arapahoe County Jail

The Unlikely Feline Friends of Arapahoe County Jail

Cats have been a part of human history for thousands of years, and their role in our society has evolved significantly over time. However, one place where you might not expect to find cats is at the Arapahoe County Jail. Despite being a correctional facility, the jail has found an innovative way to rehabilitate its inmates by introducing felines into the mix.

The program, which was started in 2014, aims to provide emotional support and comfort to the inmates while also teaching them valuable life skills such as empathy, compassion, and responsibility. The cats are sourced from local shelters and are trained to interact with the inmates.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Cat Interaction

Research has shown that interacting with cats can have numerous therapeutic benefits for individuals, including reduced stress levels, improved mood, and increased feelings of relaxation. This is especially important in the context of a correctional facility where inmates often face high levels of anxiety and depression.

The program at Arapahoe County Jail takes this into account by providing trained therapy cats to its inmates. The cats are carefully selected based on their temperament and ability to interact with people, ensuring that they provide maximum therapeutic benefits.

The Impact of the Program

Since its inception, the program has seen significant positive changes in the inmates who participate. Many have reported reduced stress levels and improved mental health, which is a crucial step towards rehabilitation.

Moreover, the program has also helped to reduce recidivism rates among former inmates. By providing them with a sense of purpose and responsibility, the cats have given them a reason to turn their lives around.