Guide dogs make a difference training inside Rockville Women's Correctional facility

ROCKVILLE, Ind. (WTHI) - To some they're more than just your house hold pet; guide dogs give many people a chance at a better life. September is National Guide Dog month and News 10 found a program that displays the talents these dogs have to offer.

Logan, Ella and Jonesy are three dogs that are in training to become guide dogs. They look like your average furry friend but the pooches can do much more.

The dogs are part of a program called ICAN, Indiana Canine Assistance Network; it’s a non-profit organization that trains guide dogs inside the Rockville Women's Correctional facility.

Amber Lace, an ICAN trainer inside the Rockville Women's Correctional facility says, "In this facility we work a lot on behaviors and manners. So we’re working on den, bed, touch, sit, done, stand and leave it."

Eight women are part of the program, all of them are required to take their dogs every where they go. Trainers spend a total of 13 hours a day with their dogs; two of those hours are dedicated towards intense training. Training that will one day benefit someone in need.

Heather Lace, an ICAN trainer inside the Rockville Women's Correctional facility says, "The dogs give a whole sense of independence that they weren't able to have and some people aren't able to lie alone or be alone. Once they get a dog they have that second hand giving them independence."

The guide dogs not only will change the life of someone in need but all the trainers say they dogs have already touched their lives.

Amber Burton, an ICAN trainer inside the Rockville Women's Correctional facility says, "It amazes me everyday when I see him do things, I taught him that."

"It’s not easy when your in prison, it's taught me a lot it's changed me a lot too. It's made me a better person,” said Heather Lace

Amber Lace says, "I have that fulfillment that this dog is going off to do great things for someone, something that I won't be able to do for somebody since I’m in here right now."

Logan Ella and Jonesy all three dogs were describe by their handlers as devoted, unselfish and loving furry friends that are all training for a greater cause.