Marion County Animal Services FIDO project inmates with dog (2023) 13

Marion County Animal Services dropped off its newest class of FIDO Project dogs at the Marion Correctional Institution last week for two months of obedience training.

During the eight-week FIDO (Florida Inmates & Dog Obedience) training program, select inmates will teach the furry students basic obedience, along with other useful skills, to make the dogs more adoptable.

In a social media post, Animal Services shared several photos of the participating inmates as they welcomed the dogs with open arms.

Marion County Animal Services FIDO project inmates with dog (2023) 6
Inmates greeting one of the FIDO Project dogs (Photo: Marion County Animal Services)
Marion County Animal Services FIDO project inmates with dog (2023) 10
An inmate petting one of the FIDO Project dogs (Photo: Marion County Animal Services)
Marion County Animal Services FIDO project inmates with dog (2023) 11
These inmates are happy to meet one of the FIDO Project dogs (Photo: Marion County Animal Services)
Marion County Animal Services FIDO project inmates with dog
An inmate training two FIDO Project dogs (Photo: Marion County Animal Services)
Marion County Animal Services FIDO project inmates with dog (2023) feature image
Inmates spending time with three of the FIDO Project dogs (Photo: Marion County Animal Services)

According to Animal Services, the first public outing with these dogs is set for Saturday, June 17, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Mr. Mochas Pet Supplies (11761 U.S.-441 in Belleview). Any individuals who are interested in adopting these dogs should submit an application online and plan on attending this event.

Animal Services is currently accepting supply donations for the FIDO Program on Amazon, and supplies can also be purchased locally at Mr. Mocha’s Pet Supplies.

For more information, visit the Marion County Animal Services website or Facebook page.